Why do the doors of my 97 Jetta "freeze" in the winter, when it gets really cold ?

Question

I can insert the key, but often can't turn it.

And, sometimes, even when I can turn the key to unlock all the doors, they are all frozen shut and I can't open any of the doors.

This does not happen on other cars (ie with other people I know who live in the same environment/temperatures), so has anyone heard of a design flaw or recall on this ?

Answer 1

Spray WD-40 in the lock cylinders to remove and prevent excess moisture before winter---you can also buy lock de-icer to squirt in the keyhole at parts stores or use a little rubbing alchohol to de-ice them--- and lube the door seals to the car body with silicone grease (parts stores) to prevent sticking---DON'T use silicone spray as it makes everything too slippery, you just want the door gaskets to be lubed. Common problem in Wisconsin winters if parking outside.

Answer 2

I have had various size cars from a Chevy Lumina to the Toyota Corolla S that I drive now..and it ALWAYS happens to me unless I park my car under the carport. The dew settles at night and freezes which causes the doors to freeze shut. A simple hair dryer with an extension cord or a glass of cool water (NOT HOT or it will crack your window) poured over the door frame does the trick every time.

Answer 3

I have a 94 VW Golf and it happens all the time in the winter. Not sure if it has anything to do with the vaacum locks or if the tumblers are just prone to freezing. I keep lock deicer in my pocket all winter ... and usually need it 2 or 3 times.

Answer 4

It happens on most smaller cars,the moisture,or water is frozen.I had to pour hot coffee on mine to open the door last winter,in Oklahoma.

Answer 5

its all about moisture. it prevents the tumblers in you lock from turning. it also freezes your rubber seals on your door to your car. i think you can coat the seals with wiped on wd40 or something. you can also squirt this in your keyholes. this has to be done above freezing and when everything is dry. it is preventative, probably not something that will fix one already frozen.