Troublesome Ignition And Door Locks And/or Keys

[Poppy]

Hello, I have a 1991 Carina ll and suddenly for some reason all three ignition keys, or the lock, are playing up. It's almost impossible to get any of the keys into the lock, two in particular, and it's also proving quite difficult to use the keys in the door locks, although this isn't so much of a problem. All seems very odd to me. Can anyone tell me why, if it is the ignition lock rather than the keys, it should suddenly start being difficult, what I may be able to do about it and whether a new lock and key/s is a big/expensive job. Many thanks!

[gazza1286]

It may sound obvious - but have you bent the keys??

Also try squirting the locks with WD40 or some similar lubricant.

My old Carina II had a very old/worn key which started playing up. Fresh ones from the dealer sorted the problem. Getting a one cut from a locksmith is not a good idea. As they will be copying a worn key. I have found that it is nearly always the key with problems like these.

[Poppy]

Thank you. Always open to the obvious! I did try WD40 and then a mechanic said *not* to use WD40, but, instead, a spray light grease. I've done this, but so far it doesn't seem to have made a lot of difference. Will persevere and if not joy will get a new key as suggested.

It may sound obvious - but have you bent the keys??

Also try squirting the locks with WD40 or some similar lubricant.

My old Carina II had a very old/worn key which started playing up. Fresh ones from the dealer sorted the problem. Getting a one cut from a locksmith is not a good idea. As they will be copying a worn key. I have found that it is nearly always the key with problems like these.