But this multi-faceted product has limitations – it should never be used to lubricate locks! The main reason for this is that WD40 is not a true lubricant; it is a water and oil displacing solvent. This means that it can actually remove any lube already in the lock, leaving it dry and susceptible to sticking.
What Is WD40? It's a multi-use product meaning that can be used to remove rust from any metal surface, loosen rusty fasteners, lubricate moving components and remove duct tape from practically any surface, but you should not on use it on lock doors.
If it doesn't move and it should, use WD40. This universal lubricant can be used as a quick fix for a stiff lock – but don't rely on it for an extended period of time as ultimately it will gum up your lock. Apply a dry graphite lubricant.
What's the best lubricant for your lock? When choosing the best product to lubricate locks, dry lubricants like graphite powder and PTFE lubricants are best. As mentioned above, oil-based products can attract dust and dirt which can damage the delicate internal mechanism of your lock.
As with all mechanical objects with moving parts, doors and hinges need to be lubricated on a fairly regular basis. There are a number of products you can use to ensure everything is running smoothly. One of the simplest ways to lubricate your hinges and locks is to use Vaseline.
Silicone spray is excellent for fixing squeaky hinges and is widely available both online and in DIY stores. Silicone spray is free from mineral oils and grease, and safe to use on a variety of surfaces as a lubricant including plastic, rubber and metal.
A: Although WD-40 is magic stuff, it is not the best choice to lubricate automotive door locks and linkages. Although it does a good job of cleaning and temporary lubricating, it goes away, so it makes a good first step. Graphite has long been a popular lube choice, but we like to use bike chain lube.
To fix the problem, the first thing to do is to squirt a small amount of dry lubricant or graphite powder inside the slot where the key goes. Insert the key into the lock and pull it out a few times without turning it.
Check the lock parts and key
Use a screwdriver to tighten any loose hinges or screws. It is also vital to check the keys to ensure the problem does not lie there. Inadequate lubrication, low temperatures, and ridges on the key can cause it to function incorrectly and stick in the lock.
If your key doesn't turn in the lock, the problem may just be a poorly cut key. Test the lock with a key that was cut at a different time to be sure. If the key isn't the problem, try lubricating the lock using powdered graphite or a silicone-based lubricant.
Lubricating the door locks and hinges on your vehicle is part of regular maintenance. It can prevent many problems that occur because of regular wear and tear as well as preventing the build-up of rust. The key is to know the correct lubricant to use on the components to prevent possible damage.
If you are in a rush and need to remedy a sticky lock, the most convenient way is with olive oil from your pantry. In order to fix the lock using the olive oil, simply rub a small amount of the oil on your key and insert it in the lock.
Petroleum Jelly
It's a good choice for jobs where a thicker, more viscous lubricant is needed. It can also help protect against rust and corrosion.
Use 3-IN-ONE Lock Dry Lube to loosen, lubricate and protect home, auto and commercial locks. Easily reach into narrow lock mechanism with the attachable straw or use the wider spray pattern to refurbish and protect the entire lock.
The quickest way to do this is to spray WD-40 directly into the keyhole, around the latch, along the tube of a deadbolt and around the handle, and then turning the mechanism repeatedly, spreading the lubricant around inside. You only need to do this once a month or so to keep them all in near-new condition.
Lock is stiff and difficult to open
You can apply some graphite spay or silicone based lubricant in the lock, put the key back in and turn it a few times. Never use oil based products such as WD-40 to lubricate locks because although they may help initially, they tend to cause problems with clogging later on.
Fortunately, this is often an easy fix. Simply grab a can of WD-40, silicon-based lubricant, graphite spray, or a dry lubricant and spray it into the keyway. Once it has been sprayed, insert the key so the lubricant will work into the locking mechanism.
I recommend a pressure-propelled can lube like 3-In-One Lock Dry Lube over good ol' fashioned graphite lube because it's easier to aim, it's cleaner, and has better penetrating qualities than powder. It's also anti-corrosive, supposedly, which means it might actually protect your lock against rust.
It will start to gunk up the lock because the extra amount of graphite present is able to mix with dirt or dust, whereas contaminants would slide off with proper usage.
Graphite for Locks
Locksmiths have long used powdered graphite to lubricate the workings of locks, and if your key refuses to slide fully into the lock, you can do the same.
For door hinge oil, your best option is to use silicone spray or white lithium grease. Silicone is the easiest, but it does not last as long as the grease. When used properly, the mess is minimal. Remove the hinge pins from the hinge one at a time.
Vaseline a.
Thanks to its oily properties, petroleum jelly is great for anyone looking to stop squeaky door hinges, although its consistency does make it difficult to get inside the hinge.