How to Fix Frozen Door Locks, Handles, and Seals

While different parts of your car door can become frozen, the methods to resolve each issue are usually similar. Better still, they’re often simple and require tools you likely already have around the house.

Breaking up the ice around the edge of the car door and handle may be all you need to get in. Try applying some extra force to open the door. You may need more than your typical tug to get through the ice, but if you find yourself looking for a crow bar, stop.

However, if your car lock or the door seal is frozen, force at best won’t help, and at worst, will cause damage.

Most people keep a snow brush in their vehicle during the winter and use the ice scraper on the other end of the brush to remove ice. Also keep one by the front door: if you can’t get to your snow brush because it’s in your car, a second one will come in handy.

However, you can also try using another hard plastic object you have on hand, such as that old membership card that’s been living in your wallet, unused. Just don’t use a knife: you’ll scratch your vehicle.

Also keep an extra pair of gloves with you and in your car to keep your hands warm while dealing with situations like this!

De-icer sprays can really be a game-changer during the winter season. Spray de-icer can be applied on the door and into the lock to melt the ice. If your de-icer comes with a straw, use it to push the product deeper into the lock or door crevice for more effective results.

If you don’t already have a de-icer, you can mix two parts vinegar with one part water. This mixture will have a similar effect to a de-icer, but can cause discoloration if it gets on the windows. Avoid it on your seals, though, because vinegar’s acidity can cause them to dry out.

Pouring lukewarm water over a frozen door handle, lock, or seal can also be an effective way to thaw the ice. However, ensure your water is warm, not boiling, as boiling water can damage the paint or shatter your car window.

If you have a way to spray the water into the lock and door grooves, this can be even more effective. Any other method of heating up the door, such as a hair dryer, can also help melt the ice. Just exercise some caution: you’re using an electrical device around water.

While frozen car doors can be an annoying fact of life, there are certain prevention methods you can use to try to avoid this issue.

Many newer cars offer a remote start option, allowing drivers to let them warm up on their own. This can thaw some of the ice buildup and get you in without any extra effort.

Keeping your car covered in the winter can prevent moisture from getting in and freezing. If you don’t have a garage or car shelter, a car cover or tarp can help protect your car from snow and ice at night.

Before the cold weather arrives, you can also apply WD-40 to your car door and lock to prevent them from sticking or freezing. Rubbing alcohol over the door lock or silicone lubricant along the seals can also work as alternatives.

If you consistently have issues with your car door freezing, you may need to clean or replace your door seals. A cracked, loose, or missing door seal can allow moisture to seep in, causing the doors to freeze. Lubricating or replacing these seals can prevent the issue altogether.

Lastly, to prevent refreezing, be sure to dry off your door handle, lock, or seal once you get it open!

If you have any questions about dealing with the effects of winter on your vehicle or about winter vehicle maintenance, visit a NAPA Auto Parts store for some expert advice.