GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

In many cases, applying the proper lubrication can correct the following conditions:


Object Number: 333932  Size: SH
    • Binding or sticking door lock cylinders (1)
    • Difficulty in inserting and removing keys

For lubricating these components, use the following recommended lubricants, listed in order of preference:

  1. Lubricant GM P/N 12345120 (Canadian P/N 726548)
  2. 5W-30 motor oil
  3. Silicone spray GM P/N 1052276 (Canadian P/N 726548)

Do not use penetrating lubricants such as GM P/N 1052949 (Canadian P/N 726548) or WD-40®. Penetrating lubricants wash out the original lubrication. Penetrating lubricants eventually evaporate, leaving little or no lubricating material. However, when using penetrating lubricants in order to thaw or loosen the lock cylinder components, refer to steps 2-4 in the procedure below for the proper methods of lubrication.

Repair lock cylinders frozen in cold weather by using the following procedure:

  1. While carefully avoiding damage to the painted surfaces, apply heat to the cylinder with a heat gun.
  2. Using a paper clip or a similar item, hold the door shutter open. Force air into the cylinders using compressed air through a blow gun attachment.
  3. While holding the shutter door open, inject small amounts of a recommended lubricant into the cylinder.
  4. Work the key into the cylinder repeatedly. Wipe away any excess lubrication from the key.