Liquid Graphite

[XYZ]

Locksmiths use graphite lock fluid. It's sold in a can as such (or at least it was decades ago). I have some on my shelf and it is indispensable when needed.

It's probably kerosine mixed with graphite, marketed in a convenient squeeze-nozzle can to squirt it into the lock.

It works well, even though it is messy, temporarily. In cold, wet weather older locks on cars and household doors might seize up, meaning they become hard to turn. Using graphite lock fluid is the cure. IT WORKS!

[jeff88]

So I got my powdered graphite in.

One problem, it specifically says don't use it in the ignition and don't use it in electric locks.

So I guess I will just have to leave the locks alone. I'm wondering if I need a new key, because my original is wearing out. But how do I get a key cut using the worn out key as the match? Can I get a key from the dealership using my VIN? It's not a chipped key.

[War_Wagon]

You can get keys cut at a dealership. They will (or should) ask for a copy of your registration along with the VIN, in order to prove that you actually own the car you are getting the key cut for.

If you don't know the history of your car though, it may not always work. If the car was ever stolen for example, the ignition may have been punched, and replaced by a used one from another car that came with a key in order to reduce the repair costs after the car was recovered. This is not entirely uncommon, but most times the factory key codes the car was made with will still be the correct ones.

[gone-ot]

Graphite is CONDUCTIVE, hence the cautions about not using in electrical switches.