If you own an older car, the car door lock cylinder may eventually need replacing. So, how do you know when the time is right?
The car key won’t turn in the door lock
When your car key won’t turn in the lock, try using your spare. If the spare works, the problem is more likely to be with the key than with the lock. However, if the newer key still doesn’t work, the car door lock cylinder may be worn, hence the key won’t turn.
You can also check the old key by trying it in the car’s ignition and boot lock. If it works in the ignition and you can use it to open the boot, the fault is most likely with the car door lock cylinder.
When the key won’t work in any of the door locks or in the ignition, it’s more likely that the fault is also with the key. In this case, all you need to do is provide a locksmith with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and they will be able to make you a new key.
If just one door is a problem, the culprit is probably the car door lock cylinder. Your locksmith will be able to replace the defective lock cylinder and re-key it so that you can continue to use the same key.
The car’s ignition cylinder has been replaced
If you have to have your car’s ignition cylinder replaced, you will be left with two keys; one for the ignition and one for the doors. A simple solution to this issue is to have your car door lock replaced so that you only need to use one key. This removes a potential issue should you lose your keyfob.
Your car keys are lost or stolen
in the worst-case scenario that your car keys are lost or stolen, it’s best for security reasons to have both the car door lock cylinder replaced and new keys issued. You can then have the ignition cylinder re-keyed or replaced, safe in the knowledge that whoever took your keys can no longer use them to access your car or steal it.
The door lock stops working properly
If your key starts to stick in the door lock, you have problems turning it or the barrel just spins without engaging the lock, don’t force it! If the key is old it may break in the lock, leaving you stranded. If you have central locking and one lock stops working, the chances are that the others won’t work properly either. In both these instances, you will need to ask your locksmith to replace your car door lock cylinder.
So if you live in the Brighton area and you would like more advice on whether your car door lock cylinder needs replacing, why not contact the helpful experts at SE Car Keys
