How to Repair a Stuck Door Lock
Over time, door locks get clogged with dirt and dust, increasing friction and making them stick. Fixing a stuck lock is a relatively simple task that should only take you around 10 to 15 minutes to complete.
Before you begin fixing your stuck door lock, here’s a list of things you’ll need:
With that, follow the simple steps below and you’ll have your stuck door lock repaired in no time.
Step #1:
- Use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew the lockset from the door (most locksets are held in place with two long screws; removing them requires many turns).
- Set the screws aside and pull the lockset away from the door.
Step #2:
- Using a Q-tip and a bottle of rubbing alcohol, clean all of the exposed components of the lock (repeat with more Q-tips as necessary, until they remain clean when you swab them on the lock).
- Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol into the key hole and let it set for one minute.
- Slide the key in and out several times to loosen any residue inside the mechanism.
Step #3:
- Spray the internal components of the lock with a thin coating of WD-40 (this will help lubricate the parts and keep the lock functioning properly).
- Using the straw attachment, also spray a small amount of WD-40 inside the key hole.
Step #4:
- Reinstall the lockset on the door, and tighten the screws.
You’ve now successfully repaired your stuck door lock!
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* Manufacturers will change product lines periodically and some styles of doors may no longer be available.