Seized cylinder

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A seized cylinder is a lock cylinder in which the key goes in or turns with great difficulty, or does not turn all the way, because the mechanism inside is dirty, rusty or worn. It is not broken, but it is on its way.

On the coast it is very common: salt air rusts the springs and pins, sand gets in through the keyway and homes that are shut up for months find the cylinder stiff when the owners come back. Having put oil in it also plays a part, as over time it forms a paste.

Do not force it, because the key can snap inside. Try blowing into the keyway and applying a little graphite or dry lock lubricant. If it is still stiff, it needs a thorough clean or replacing. More under lock repair.

Related service

Lock repair

Repair of stiff, jammed or salt-damaged locks, with a clear diagnosis of whether it is worth repairing or replacing.

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Questions that mention it

Why does the key go in but not turn?

It is usually a cylinder seized by dirt or salt air, a worn or badly cut key, or a misaligned door. Do not force it, as it can snap. Read the full answer

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