Sticky Door Lock

Once the door is open try to actuate the door latch with the handle.

Sticky door lock.

An improperly functioning latch may be the result of a poorly fitting door. Insert the key in the lock and turn it several times to distribute the graphite. It doesn t really pay to have interior door knobs or locks professionally repaired unless they are special. The door latch is not extended before rotating the knob.

For serious lock problems it is usually best to call a locksmith or to replace the lock entirely. The handle or knob must be jiggled to unstick the latch. Fortunately most front door lock problems can be. Many people put up with the aggravation of a sticking door lock for years.

More force is needed to turn the knob and unstick the latch. This occurs when dust dirt grime and other buildup accumulates on the internal. First clean the keyhole with a penetrating lubricant like wd 40. Most interior door knobs are relatively inexpensive to replace.

To fix a door lock that doesn t turn easily. I can unlock the door if i try a few times but the key has a difficult time turning as the deadbolt is sticky. After enough use you might find that your door lock has begun to stick making it difficult to put in turn or pull out your key. We have been going through our garage door to get in the house because of this.

Squirt a little powdered graphite available in squeeze tubes at home improvement and automotive stores in the keyhole of the lock. Most times you ll find that the door sticks along the top because the door is sagging. Often turning these four screws slightly clockwise is enough to eliminate the scuffing. Sticking door locks can be attributed to everything from slight settling of the house to a buildup of dust and dirt within the locking mechanism.

Simulating opening the door without the latch extending into and retracting out of the strike plate. How to fix a sticky lock. Fix and lubricate a sticky lock and key this applies to all locks but especially to motorcycle ignitions gas caps saddlebags and trunks. Fixing a few stubborn locks might involve disassembling cleaning and then reassembling the lock.

Ironically by cleaning and oiling them you can fix most locks in a matter of minutes.