Drivers are used to scraping ice off their windshields when winter strikes. However, encountering a frozen door lock can be much more frustrating. If moisture enters an auto lock, the mechanism can freeze, making it difficult for a driver to safely open the door with their key. Fortunately, you can troubleshoot frozen locks with a few simple steps. Here are several ways to safely deice a frozen car lock.

How Should You Deice a Car Lock?

1. Adopt Preventive Practices

If possible, always park in covered or enclosed areas, such as a garage. The extra insulation can prevent winter weather from affecting the lock. If you have to park outside, consider spraying a bit of WD-40® in the keyhole at night when temperatures start to drop. The lubricant will help prevent moisture from collecting inside the lock and freezing.

2. Try the Other Doors

In many cases, auto locks that are facing the sun won’t freeze. If your driver's side door is frozen shut, try the other doors to see if you can gain entry. Once you’re in the car, turn on the engine and heater to warm up the vehicle and thaw out the lock.  

3. Heat the Key

A warm key can often melt the ice inside an auto lock. To try this method, use a lighter to warm up the key’s shaft. Next, gently insert the key and move it around to see if you can free up the ice. If you don’t have a lighter, you can apply a small dab of hand sanitizer gel to the key. These products contain alcohol, which can help with deicing.

However, only use these practices if you have a standard metal key. These techniques can cause damage when applied to electronic devices, such as transponder keys.  

4. Warm Up the Lock

Try warming the lock by using a straw or hair dryer to blow warm air directly into the keyhole. Never put hot water directly onto a frozen car lock, as it can cause significant damage to the mechanism. It may also harm the car’s electrical components.

5. Apply a Deicing Solution

Alcohol-based deicing solutions provide a cheap, quick, and easy way to fix frozen car locks. Keeping a deicing solution at home or on your person during winter will help ensure that you’re prepared for emergencies.

 

 

Whether your lock is damaged or frozen, the experts at Ability Lock & Key of Colfax, NC, are equipped to keep your vehicle’s locks functioning and intact. Providing mobile locksmith services throughout the Piedmont-Triad area, this mobile team will come to your location to deliver convenient care. Visit them online to learn more about their automotive capabilities, or call (336) 407-1586 to request prompt assistance.