Cold locks

[ROOKIE1]

My door locks do not want to open when cold outside . The key does go in easily and turns to lock . However when I turn the key to unlock it is as if the lock is being held shut . Comes close to breaking key off just to get into car . I did search but only found response about opposite side lock sticking . I need to know if there is a way to loosen up the lock to get it to operate correctly ? After car is warm on inside lock works fine , just not when cold . Car is a 90 Talon Tsi . Thanks

 

[gringoloco]

Pick up a bottle of this stuff (Lock De-Icer) it will take care of your frozen lock problem.

Lock De-Icer

 

[ROOKIE1]

Its not a problem with the key hole . I think the rod does not operate smoothly when cold (normal , but not what I mean ) . Is there something I could apply to keep it from sticking .

 

[luv2rallye]

Grease or powdered graghite on the rod connections and levers (after cleaning).

 

[DiabloRT]

Carry a lighter too.

You can heat the key and then stick it in quick...it should work.

 

[1LE]

Grease or powdered graghite on the rod connections and levers (after cleaning).

Graphite is OK. I prefer LPS greaseless lubricant for that task though. Don't use any silicone junk as you'll just gunk it up. I used to do lock keying/repair and I can tell you that the WORST thing you can do is use silicone in them!!! Ugh.

 

[bigemrich]

My locks were stuck, and I used WD-40. I dont know if that is the best, but it worked for me.

--Kyle

 

[1LE]

My locks were stuck, and I used WD-40. I dont know if that is the best, but it worked for me.

--Kyle

WD40 is an "OK" choice The plus side of using it is that it displaces water and tends to stick around for awhile, preventing refreezes. The negative side is that it sticks around for awhile and attracts dirt which can cause the lock to not work as easily.