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The Secret to Smooth Locks: How (and Why) to Lubricate Your Locks Like a Pro

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  • The Secret to Smooth Locks: How (and Why) to Lubricate Your Locks Like a Pro
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29.01.2025

Regular lock maintenance is essential to prevent key jamming or lock failure. Proper lubrication reduces wear and tear, ensures smooth operation, and extends the lifespan of your locks. A well-lubricated lock decreases the risk of your key getting stuck or breaking inside the lock—an inconvenient and costly problem. At MR-KEY, we understand the importance of well-maintained locks and want to help you keep yours in top condition.

 

How Often Should You Lubricate Your Locks?

 

For most locks, lubricating them every three to six months is sufficient. However, locks exposed to extreme weather conditions—such as those on towbars, roof racks, or outdoor gates—require more frequent maintenance. Rain, dust, and freezing temperatures can cause internal components to stick, making it difficult to insert or turn the key. If you notice resistance when using a lock, it’s time for lubrication.

 

What Lubricant Should You Use for Locks?

 

Choosing the right lubricant is crucial for long-term lock performance. Here are the best options:

• Teflon-based (PTFE) spray – Forms a protective film inside the lock, reducing friction and repelling dust buildup.

• Dry silicone spray – Excellent for outdoor locks as it resists moisture without attracting dirt.

• WD-40 Specialist Dry PTFE or White Lithium Grease – Unlike regular WD-40, these provide long-lasting lubrication and protection against corrosion.

• Graphite powder – A great choice for older locks but should not be used if there’s oil residue inside the lock.

 

While WD-40 Multi-Use is a quick fix for stuck locks, it is primarily a cleaner rather than a long-term lubricant. If used, follow up with a dry lubricant to prevent dirt accumulation inside the lock.

 

How to Lubricate a Lock

 

If your lock is functioning properly but feels slightly stiff, follow these steps:

1. Clean the Lock – Insert and remove the key a few times to dislodge debris, wiping it clean each time.

2. Apply the Lubricant – Insert the spray straw into the keyhole and apply two short bursts of lubricant.

3. Work the Lock – Insert and turn the key multiple times to distribute the lubricant inside.

4. Wipe Excess Lubricant – Remove any residue from the key and lock exterior to prevent dirt buildup.

 

For graphite powder, follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions, as overapplication can lead to clumping inside the lock.

 

Special Care for Towbar and Roof Rack Locks

 

Locks on towbars and roof racks are exposed to harsher conditions than typical door locks. To keep them in good shape:

• Regularly inspect them for stiffness or corrosion.

• Apply dry silicone spray or PTFE lubricant for lasting protection.

• If the lock is exposed to frequent moisture, white lithium grease offers superior water resistance.

 

Lock It in: The Key to Long-Lasting Security

 

Regular lock maintenance is a small effort that prevents big problems. By keeping your locks clean and properly lubricated—especially those exposed to the elements—you can avoid costly repairs and ensure they function smoothly for years.

 

For high-quality lock maintenance products, visit MR-KEY and keep your locks in perfect working condition. A little maintenance goes a long way in ensuring security and peace of mind!

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When you think about cars, what comes to mind? Speed, design, or maybe the feeling of freedom when you hit the open road? But there’s one crucial aspect of driving that you might not think about as much—safety. Cars today are safer than ever, thanks to decades of innovations and advancements. But how did we get here? Let’s dive into the history of car safety features and see just how far we’ve come to protect you and your loved ones on the road. The Early Days: A Lack of Safety Awareness Back in the early 1900s, cars were viewed as luxury items and status symbols. Safety wasn’t really a concern. Cars had no seat belts, no airbags, and certainly no crumple zones. People focused more on making vehicles go faster and look better than on keeping passengers safe. In those days, accidents were far more dangerous, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities. It wasn’t until the rise of car ownership in the 1920s and 1930s that people began to notice just how dangerous cars could be. 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Introduced in the 1950s by Mercedes-Benz, crumple zones help reduce the impact of a collision by sacrificing the car’s body to protect the occupants. Today, crumple zones are standard in virtually every car, and their design continues to evolve, improving crash safety with each new model year. Anti-lock Brakes: Helping You Keep Control The introduction of anti-lock braking systems (ABS) in the 1970s was another massive leap forward in car safety. ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, which helps maintain steering control during an emergency stop. This system is especially useful on slippery surfaces like rain-soaked or icy roads. Before ABS, sudden braking could lead to skidding, causing drivers to lose control of their vehicles. ABS has significantly reduced the number of accidents caused by loss of control and has become a staple of modern driving safety. 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Short answer: Yes. You can order a replacement car key online in the UK and have it delivered in 3–4 days. Choose the right key type, provide a photo or key code for cutting, and have a local locksmith program it when it arrives. Why trust this guide: With over 25 years in the locksmith trade and more than 650,000 satisfied customers, Mr-Key explains exactly how online key replacement works — clearly, securely, and step by step. When online replacement works (and when it doesn’t) Ordering online is ideal if you need a spare, a like-for-like remote, or a replacement for a lost or damaged key. It’s the fastest and most convenient way to get OEM-grade parts delivered to your door. You simply order the correct key, have it cut from a photo or key code, then let a local locksmith program it to your vehicle. Online ordering doesn’t replace immobiliser pairing. Modern vehicles still require professional programming once the key arrives. 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