Why wont my key turn in my door

Check to see if your key is the problem

Many times the reason a key wont turn in a door is because the key is the problem. If the key is bent, damaged, or otherwise not working properly, it may not be able to turn the lock. If the key is the problem, you may be able to have it repaired or replaced.

If your key is bent

If your key is bent, it may not be able to enter the keyway or turn fully in the lock cylinder. Try these steps to straighten your key so you can get back to using it as normal.

If there is something stuck in the keyhole

If there appears to be something stuck in the keyhole preventing your key from turning, use a small wire brush or sewing needle to clear it. If you can’t see anything blocking the keyhole, jiggle your key back and forth as you turn it. This may dislodge whatever is interfering with the tumblers and allow you to turn your key.

Check to see if the door is the problem

Before you start taking the door off its hinges, check to see if the door is the problem. The first thing you want to do is make sure the door is fully closed. If the door is closed and the key still wont turn, there are a few things you can try.

If the door is jammed

If the door is jammed, check the following: -See if something is blocking the door. Remove any objects that are in the way. -Look at the hinges to see if they are loose. Tighten them if they are. -Check to see if the tracks are clean. If they are not, clean them. -See if the rollers are damaged. If they are, replace them.

If the door is warped

If the door is warped, it may cause the key to not turn. Try to fix the warp by using a plunger. If that does not work, you may need to replace the door.

Check to see if the lock is the problem

The first thing you want to do is check and see if the lock is the problem. If the lock is the problem, then you will want to call a locksmith. If the lock is not the problem, then you will want to check to see if the key is the problem.

If the lock is jammed

1. If your combination lock is jammed, and you cannot reset it, the best thing to do is to bring the lock to a locksmith.

2. If you have a keyed lock, and the key is not working, you will need to either clean the key or replace the cylinder. To clean the key, use a soft cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol. Rub the key all over with the cloth, and then tryinserting it into the lock again. If this does not work, you will need to replace the cylinder.
   If the lock is corroded

If the lock is corroded, you may need to lubricate it with WD-40 or a similar product. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the lock.