Applying the proper lubrication may correct the following
problems in many cases:
• | Binding door lock cylinders |
| Sticking door lock cylinders |
• | Keys that are hard to insert |
• | Keys that are hard to remove |
The recommended material for lubricating these components are (in order
of preference):
• | Lubricant GM P/N 12345120, or the equivalent |
• | Silicone spray GM P/N 1052276, or the equivalent |
Penetrating lubricants, such as GM P/N 1052949 and WD-40®,
are not recommended because they wash out the original lubrication. These
lubricants will eventually evaporate and leave little or no lubricating material.
If you use these materials in order to unfreeze or loosen the lock cylinder
components, refer to steps 2 through 4 for the proper method of lubrication.
You may repair lock cylinders that freeze due to cold weather by using
the following procedure:
- Apply heat to the lock cylinder with a heat gun. Be careful not
to damage the painted surfaces.
- Hold the lock cylinder shutter open with a paper clip (or similar
item). Force air into the lock cylinder using compressed air and a blow gun
attachment.
- While holding the lock cylinder shutter open, inject a small amount
of lubricant (refer to the recommendations) into the lock cylinder.
- Work the key into the lock cylinder several times. Wipe any excess
lubrication residue from the key.