How To Keep Car Doors From Freezing Shut 9 Steps With Pictures

Avoid locking your doors. If possible, keep doors unlocked. This will avoid the locking mechanism from locking into place. However, leaving the doors unlocked may allow the car to be entered by a thief. Do not leave any valuables in the vehicle if you plan on leaving it unlocked. Place duct tape over your door lock to keep it from freezing. If your car is parked outside, a car cover or tarp minimizes the amount of moisture from snow and rain that can reach the door parts and freeze. This is especially useful during an ice storm or other icing event.

A rubber conditioner or rubber care product are probably the safest options for long-term care. Silicone spray lubricant can last several weeks per application, but it can damage foam rubber seals and should be kept away from paint. [1] X Research source [2] X Research source WD40, another light lubricating oil, or even nonstick cooking spray are easily available options, but repeated use can dry out or disintegrate the rubber. [3] X Research source

Petroleum jelly is another option, but may leave a messy residue on your equipment.

A graphite lubricant typically comes in a squeeze bottle of air that can be pressed directly into the keyhole. Some people find this can absorb moisture over time and leave gunk on the key. Teflon-based lubricant is often recommended, but some people consider the products that contain silicone messy and ineffective. Greaseless lubricants are supposed to attract less dust and debris.

This is not common a practice in cold climates; and there are other, safer alternatives for you and your vehicle. This should only be attempted if no other alternatives are available. Do not do this with a key with a computerized chip. This may easily damage the electronics, and replacements can costs hundreds of dollars.

If your car is outside, use a battery-operated hair dryer, or an extension cord rated for outdoor use.