Waking up to a frozen vehicle is a common part of living in the capital during the winter. You scrape the ice off the windows and climb inside to start your commute to work. However, you might find that your ignition is stuck and will not budge at all. This happens because internal moisture freezes the small pins inside the metal cylinder. Because of this, we recommend a few gentle tricks to get your day back on track. We want you to avoid breaking your key by using too much force. A little patience can save you from a very expensive repair bill later today. We are the Best Automotive Locksmith Ottawa for handling these freezing winter emergencies.
Safely Warming Up Your Vehicle Lock
The first thing to try is warming up your key with your own body heat. You can hold the metal part of the key tightly in your hand for a minute. This small change in temperature is often enough to melt thin layers of ice. If that does not work, try using a hairdryer on a low setting if possible. Never pour boiling water onto your car door or into the ignition cylinder. The rapid change in heat can crack the plastic or damage the electronics. We want to solve the problem without creating a new one for you.
You should also check if your steering wheel is locked into a tight position. Sometimes the wheel puts pressure on the ignition, making it feel like it is frozen shut. Try wiggling the steering wheel back and forth while gently turning the key at the same time. This often releases the tension and allows the key to move freely once again. Our team sees this issue quite often during the first big cold snap of the year. We enjoy helping our neighbors stay mobile when the temperature drops.
Preventing Future Ice Build Up
Maintenance is the best way to keep your locks working throughout the entire winter season. We suggest using a specialized dry lubricant inside the keyhole before the snow starts to fall. This creates a barrier that stops water from sticking to the internal metal parts. Avoid using heavy oils that can attract dust and turn into a thick paste. A clean lock is much less likely to freeze or jam during a storm. We can show you the best products to use for your specific car.
Our emergency car lockout team is always ready to help if the ice is too thick. We arrive with professional tools that safely thaw the mechanism without causing any damage. We understand how stressful it is to be late because of a frozen lock. That is why we prioritize calls from people stranded in the cold. You can trust our professionals to arrive quickly and solve the issue with care. We are here to keep Ottawa drivers moving safely all winter long.
When to Call for Professional Help
If your key still will not turn after warming it up, the problem might be mechanical. Internal parts can wear out over time and eventually fail completely in the cold. Our team can diagnose if you need a repair or a full replacement. We carry all the necessary tools in our mobile vans to fix it on-site. You do not have to worry about towing your vehicle to a local dealership. We save you time and money by bringing the shop directly to you.
If you are stuck right now, please Contact Us. We can give you a clear price estimate over the phone before we head out. Our technicians are experienced with all types of ignition systems found in modern cars. We look forward to helping you get your car started today. Let us take the stress out of your winter morning with professional service. Your safety and comfort are our main priorities every day.
FAQ
Can a frozen battery stop my key from turning?
On some modern cars with electronic ignitions, a dead battery can prevent the lock from releasing. If your lights are dim, you might need a boost along with a lock thaw.
Should I use a lighter to heat my key?
You can use a lighter, but be very careful not to melt the plastic head of the key. Hold the heat near the tip of the metal for just a few seconds.
