With the onset of winter, many drivers face a common problem — frozen locks and doors of the car. This most often occurs due to sharp temperature fluctuations. It is important to first check if all locks are frozen and if there is a way to get into the cabin. If the situation worsens, do not despair. We will tell you what measures can be taken together with Oleg Kutsobin, an expert in aggressive automotive chemicals.
Causes of a Frozen Car Lock
First, it is important to understand why a lock can freeze and what consequences may arise from improper defrosting. In winter, moisture enters the lock mechanism, which freezes and expands. This leads to the formation of ice in the keyhole, making it impossible to insert and turn the key. Improper defrosting of the lock and attempts to open it with a key can cause partial or complete breakage of the lock, which will require its replacement.
Effective Methods for Defrosting a Lock
In most cases, automotive chemicals will be the most effective solution. There is a special product for this task — a lock de-icer, also known as a liquid key.
Some car enthusiasts use nut loosening agents based on kerosene (for example, WD-40). However, this method is not recommended, as such chemicals contain hygroscopic substances that can absorb moisture and complicate the opening of the lock in the future.
Windshield washer fluid should also be used only as a last resort if there are no other options. The composition of the “anti-freeze” includes isopropyl alcohol, which is an aggressive substance and can damage the lock mechanism.
If automotive chemicals are not available, you can try the following methods: warm the key with a lighter flame, use a heating pad for the lock, breathe on the lock through a straw, pour an alcohol-containing liquid (for example, perfume or cologne), or move the car to a warm place for natural defrosting. However, all these methods require time.
- The only thing that should categorically not be done is to pour boiling water into the keyhole, as water can get into the wiring and cause more serious problems, - warns Oleg Kutsobin.
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