Why are car drawers often referred to as glove boxes? Apparently, in the era of using horseless carriages, aka automobiles, this compartment was made specifically to store the driver's gloves. Even if you generally use your car drawer to store your vehicle manual, glasses, and tissues, it's still a very useful storage space. However, sometimes the car drawer can be damaged making it difficult to open or lock. Fortunately, there are a few things you can try to repair your car drawer yourself. To make this process easier, we will answer some common questions about how to repair car drawers.
Step
Method 1 of 5: How to fix a car drawer that won't open?
Step 1. Apply vehicle lubricant to the drawer lock and try to open it again
Sometimes it is difficult to open the car glove compartment because the locking mechanism is stuck or corroded. Prepare ordinary car lubricant, then drop it on the surface of the key and rub it evenly. After that, put the key in the car glove compartment and try to open it again.
Don't force the key in too hard so it doesn't break and damage the drawer completely
Step 2. Spray brake cleaner on the lock if the lubricant doesn't work
If lubricating the lock doesn't work, you can try removing rust and corrosion from the inside of the lock mechanism. Use brake cleaner by inserting the nozzle into the keyhole and spraying the fluid directly there. After that, try to open the car drawer again to see the results.
You can buy brake cleaner at the nearest auto store
Step 3. Use the services of a locksmith if all of the above methods fail
If you've tried everything and still can't open the car glove compartment, contact a specialist. Find the nearest locksmith and ask him to check your car's glove compartment. He or she can usually pinpoint the source of the problem and give directions on how to fix it.
Using the services of a locksmith is the best option if you don't want to take the risk of damaging the car's glove compartment
Method 2 of 5: How to fix a broken car drawer lock?
Step 1. Use a key replacement kit that matches your car make and model
If the car glove lock does not open, you will need to replace it with a new one. Look for a replacement key kit that fits your car at a local repair shop or order it online. Follow the instructions on the package to remove the old lock cylinder from the slot, insert the new cylinder, and lock it in place.
- Each lock has a slightly different mechanism, but with the right tools you can definitely replace it yourself.
- For example, some types of locks require you to remove the screw retaining plate in the compartment and use pins that can only be removed using a flat tool, such as a chisel or wire hanger.
Method 3 of 5: How to fix car drawer latch?
Step 1. You can install a replacement latch made specifically for your vehicle
Purchase a new deadbolt that matches your make and model of car at your local auto shop or online. Remove the old latch (usually by removing the screw at the base), then replace it with a new one. Replace the screw that was removed to secure the latch, then try opening and closing the car drawer a few times to make sure it works properly.
Method 4 of 5: How to open a car drawer without a key?
Step 1. Call a locksmith so your car drawer is not damaged
If you don't have a glove compartment key, the only way to unlock it without damaging the glove compartment or dashboard is to hire a professional. Find the nearest locksmith and have him check your car drawer. He should be able to open the drawer and replace the key with a new one so you have the keys to open and close the car drawer again.
Step 2. Try prying out the drawer with a screwdriver as a last resort
If you do not want to use the services of a locksmith and do not hesitate to damage the car drawer, you can force open the drawer with a flat-head screwdriver. Slide the screwdriver bit into the slot that connects to the dashboard and pry it open. Once the opening is wide enough, you can try pulling the drawer lid open.
Remember, prying a car drawer open requires a lot of effort and risks damaging the locking mechanism
Method 5 of 5: How much does it cost to repair a car drawer?
Step 1. The cost varies greatly, depending on the make and model of your vehicle
Several replacement car drawers were sold for IDR 3.5 million. If you only need to replace small parts such as deadbolts or drawer handles, it will definitely cost less than a complete repair. In addition, workshops generally charge between IDR 500 thousand and IDR 2.2 million per hour of installation. A simple fix only takes about an hour, but a total fix can take up to several hours.
