Remove any dirt or rust buildup, and make sure the deadbolt is clean of any blockages. Any kind of misalignment in this area could be an issue. Inspect the deadbolt structure, including the inner rod, and make sure it is perfectly aligned with the slot in the lock. Unscrew the lock from the door and lay it on a flat surface. This is the only way to locate and remove any buildup, replace any damaged elements, or detect a faulty mechanism. Clean and examine the deadboltĪs we’ve mentioned, the best long-term solution to many potential issues with your deadbolt is to remove it from the door and inspect it thoroughly. Make sure not to be too aggressive with the twisting and the tapping, as it may create an even bigger problem. Put the key into the lock, and keep twisting it back and forth while tapping the lock with a hammer. If this is the case, all you will need is the lock key and a small hammer. Sometimes all it takes to fix a jammed lock is to tap it with a hammer, as it may help the disengaged lock components to return back into place. Unscrew the lock cylinder and apply a generous amount of the spray lube onto the bolt mechanism while twisting it back and forth using a screwdriver. You may also need to lube the bolt mechanism itself for it to properly work again. Of course, the best long-term solution to this problem would be to fully disassemble and clean the lock, but if you’re unable to do this, greasing up the key passage with some graphite spray should do the trick. This is usually the best solution in case the lock is jammed due to a buildup of dirt or rust. The first step you can take, and the first thing even a professional would recommend, is lubricating the lock. However, even if you’re unable to recognize the core issue, some of these solutions could prove to be helpful. Once you’ve detected the issue, you can proceed to the process of repairing or replacing the deadbolt – depending on the severity of the issue. If your deadbolt won’t unlock, lock, or simply turn all the way, there could be a number of reasons causing this problem, as we’ve discussed. If the small opening in the metal keeper plate gets stuck, the entire lock mechanism will be compromised – including the deadbolt.Ī jammed metal keeper plate may cause a stuck deadbolt in the unlocked position, which is a big risk to your safety. If the deadbolt won’t turn from inside, it could be that the core issue lies in a metal keeper plate jam. This requires a thorough inspection of the deadbolt structure, which is best performed by a professional. However, sometimes the problem isn’t the entire deadbolt mechanism, but a single element. While a buildup of dirt will not damage the structure, corrosion can certainly have that kind of damaging effect. One of the common issues in the structure of the deadbolt could be a buildup of some kind of material, usually dirt or rust. Just like any other door element, the deadbolt is prone to normal wear and tear, and if you haven’t replaced it in years, it could be that it has reached its “expiration date”. Perhaps you haven’t purchased a faulty deadbolt, but it got damaged in the process of use. Once you’ve ruled out all the other problems and factors, take a closer look at the deadbolt and its components.Ī manufacturing issue isn’t too common, but it could definitely happen, and it is necessary to detect it before you start repairing or replacing any component of the lock. In case you can’t detect any other issue with your deadbolt, the problem could be the deadbolt itself – especially if it is brand new. If the lock hasn’t been installed properly, it’s no wonder the key turns but the deadbolt won’t unlock, or there is another issue with the deadbolt mechanism. Sometimes the problem isn’t in the mechanism or the product itself, but the installation of the lock. This is precisely why it is important to detect the issue first, so you can find the most accurate solution and prevent this problem from happening again. There are several factors that could affect the deadbolt mechanism, and each of them requires a different approach. In the majority of cases, it is possible to repair the mechanism and get the deadbolt back to its functional state without having to replace it. However, if the deadbolt won’t lock properly, you can no longer rely on the security of this mechanism. Since they do not require a spring, they are almost impossible to be jimmied open using a crowbar, or a similar technique.
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