How to lubricate automotive locks?

Question

I have locks on few vehicles that are in need of lubricating. I had read/heard of several options, and I wanted to see what are the common methods and techniques.

Graphite powder. Quite a few people suggested it, including parts shop salesman, so I gave it a try. At first I didn’t realise it was a dry powder (I assumed it was some sort of graphite-based grease), so I ended up getting my hands dirty, but did not get much of an improvement in the end. I could not puff it into the lock itself as the tube opening was too large for the lock slit, so I got some on my key, and tried to get as much as possible inside the lock cylinder. Is there a good method of application of graphite powder? Does it even work as good as it should? I don’t see how it would protect the lock from the elements (which would be an issue with cars with exposed locks, and with motorcycles).
Liquid lubricant. Obviously, using something like general-purpose spray lubricant would not do much good, as it would just run off out of the lock cylinder and make a mess. However, I had seen some advice about using some sort of sticky spray (would lithium grease work?) that could work.
Grease. Is it possible to use some sort of clean grease for the locks? If it is, would putting the grease on the key and working it inside the lock be sufficient, or is it better to take the lock cylinder out in order to properly lubricate its innards?

metalheart · Answer

A tiny shot of WD40 injected with the attached straw does a decent job for me.

Brian Knoblauch · Answer

I strongly recommend a greaseless lubricant (LPS makes a good one, as do other companies). Graphite is technically better, but is very messy and hard to be effective with. I discourage WD-40 / oils as they tend to attract dirt that causes you to need to clean/relube it sooner. I strongly discourage grease and silicone lubes, those make a big mess and lead to gummed up locks.

Answered by Brian Knoblauch on January 6, 2021

CmdrMoozy · Answer

My local mechanic has recommended using "white lithium grease" (for example, like this) for things like hinges & locks. It is similar to WD-40 in that it's a spray lubricant, but (apparently) it does its job longer (e.g., doesn't wash off or collect dirt as easily).

Answered by CmdrMoozy on January 6, 2021

DIYer · Answer

For those trying to use graphite, a little trick I learned of in a camera repair manual is to use a liquid to carry the graphite into the areas you're trying to lubricate.
The liquid they used in the book was lighter fluid as it evaporates completely leaving no residue, so it will carry or wick the graphite you have mixed into the lighter fluid and then the lighter fluid will evaporate leaving only the graphite, it will also wick into close fitting parts you couldn't possibly apply the graphite to.

Bill N · Answer

Professional locksmiths (my best friend is a CML) will tell you to never use grease, oil, WD-40 or the like inside a lock cylinder. That stuff collects dust and dirt, gumming up the pins in the lock cylinder.

Graphite is the way to go, and your local locksmith should carry a plastic tube or rubber squeeze bottle which has a very small tubular opening about 1/2" long on the end.  A couple of gentle squeezes, run the key in and out several times, then rotate the key several times.

If the lock is gummed up, use carb cleaner to loosen the gunk, followed by some air. Be sure to protect your paint.

Mike · Answer

i used 35 weight silcone shock fluid from an R/C truck shocks... hope it works

Steve S · Answer

After flushing out the lock with a no residue cleaner, use AGS Lock-Ease made specifically for locks. Google it, many professional locksmiths won't use anything else.

Carl · Answer

I tend to use WD 40 after flushing the barrel out, although you have to repeat this every year, check th key is not worn it turns a brass colour if this happens get a new one cut.

How to lubricate automotive locks?

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