Q&A for How to Open Frozen Car Doors

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Question

If I use warm water, is there any danger of it refreezing from long-term subzero temperatures?

Community Answer

Yes. Dry the door frame and rubber with an old towel after you get the door open.

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Question

Is a 'Preston Window De-Icing Spray' okay for thawing rubber door seals/car locks?

Terrence MacArthur

Community Answer

Check the labe to see if it's safe to use with rubber. Since windshields have rubber seals, it probably is.

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Question

Can I use Vaseline on rubber?

Community Answer

You can't use Vaseline on the shaft, but you can use it on the rubber.

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Question

I tried to open my door using Vaseline, but now my key hole has Vaseline in it. What can I do?

Community Answer

Well, Vaseline is an excellent petroleum product for lubrication and protection, so I think it will be fine as it will just lube the pins.

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Question

I can open my car door with the remote key, but then when I am in the car, it will not close. How can I fix this?

Community Answer

If you allow the car to run 20-30 minutes with the heater on full blast, the door latching mechanism will unfreeze.

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Question

Can I use de-icer in my locks the night before?

Community Answer

You can, but ice could possibly form again before morning anyway, so it might be pointless.

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Question

What do I do if my car door's handle is frozen?

Community Answer

Try to chip the ice off or use de-icer on the handle. Try all the other doors, or the lift gate/trunk to get in if possible.

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Question

What do I do if my car key goes in the lock but won't turn?

Community Answer

Use a disposable cigarette lighter to heat the door lock and entry key and insert the key into the lock. The combined heat and pressure should free the door lock.

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