Any vehicle needs periodic maintenance. The rule applies to all components, systems and important parts. Ignoring it will lead to technical malfunctions. Not only the engine, but also less significant elements require attention. These include door locks and hinges. Without proper care, they will begin to creak and have problems opening. If you ignore the problem for several months. These elements will be subject to increased wear due to rust. In winter, an unlucky driver will be faced with the fact that the door will not open. This kind of difficulty can be avoided if you regularly use lubricant.

Why are locks and hinges lubricated?

Over time, the lubricant used at the factory loses its effectiveness. Many people think about such manipulations after a squeak appears. It is not right. It is recommended to lubricate the hinges and lock before specific problems appear. Prevention eliminates unpleasant sounds and promotes easy and smooth movement.

Those who fix the problem after it occurs should initially familiarize themselves with the condition of the sealing rubber bands and hinges. The tightness of the fit of the door to the body depends on the rubber bands. If problems are detected, you need to think about replacing them. Damage (cracks, severe rust, deformation of fastenings and other elements) signals the advisability of repair and restoration work or a complete replacement.

Car doors are subject to more stress than the front doors of a home. Especially on the driver's side. Since it is used most often during active driving. But there are times when the squeaking occurs on the passenger side.

Problems arise from operation in a complex, aggressive environment. The lubricant is produced, loses its properties, and attracts dirt.

The castle is subject to similar influences. One body is not enough. High humidity causes corrosion. Dust and dirt particles penetrate into the mechanism through the keyhole. They come in with a draft or on the key. By settling on the mechanism, they increase friction between the elements. Normal operation is possible when the parts slide smoothly. Foreign particles become clogged between the moving components of the lock. Turning the key becomes more difficult. In certain cases it may break.

Preventative work is most relevant before the arrival of winter. Without proper protection, the lock will freeze. Water, penetrating inside the rotating mechanism, freezes and binds it. Rotation is not possible.

The main causes of unpleasant sound

1. Poor quality factory assembly and unregulated balance.
2. High level of pollution. The deposition of dust and dirt leads to a decrease and complete loss of the consumer properties of the lubricant.
3. High pressure washer. Fast and effective cleaning is accompanied by the complete removal of any type of lubricant on the parts.
4. Adverse weather conditions (low temperatures, high humidity, temperature fluctuations, aggressive chemicals for road treatment, etc.).
5. Wear of rubber seals. A loose fit of the door to the body will lead to moisture leakage, condensation in the interior and other negative phenomena that will negatively affect the performance of the lock.
6. Active use of doors.

Popular means

EFELE UNI-M Spray

A universal composition, which is a dispersion of solid lubricating components in mineral oil.

The high anti-wear properties of EFELE UNI-M Spray are due to the combined action of liquid and solid lubricants.

The dispersion contains corrosion inhibitors, and therefore prevents the appearance of rust on car locks and hinges. The lubricant has high penetrating properties and effectively displaces moisture.

CRC Multilube

Waterproof universal lubricant spray for hinges. The product contains high-quality mineral and synthetic oils, antioxidant and antifriction additives, and friction modifiers.

The material easily penetrates the friction surfaces of the hinge joints and forms a strong protective film on them. To better control the application process, the lubricant has a bluish tint, which completely disappears after a few days.

About lubrication

Previously, the driver had to resort to tricks to eliminate squeaks. Available materials were used (kerosene, vinegar-based acid and even iodine), including an oil press. These times have passed with the advent of auto chemistry. Thanks to its high efficiency, it won the trust of consumers and gradually replaced improvised means from everyday use. Chemistry has made car maintenance much easier. Another significant advantage is that it will not be difficult to purchase it at the nearest specialized point.

A lubricant is a substance of a certain consistency used to treat friction pairs and create a film for smooth operation. Additives and additional components are added to the base to give the product the necessary qualities.

Main components:

• additives;
• thickeners;
• lubricating oils.

Depending on the composition, the lubricant is:

• liquid;
• semi-hard (plastic);
• hard.

What should the lubricant be?

The substance provides protection for doors and hinges in extreme conditions, including low temperatures. To work without any problems, it must meet a number of specific requirements.

1. Strength. The characteristics determine whether the composition will adhere to surfaces subject to friction. Considering the characteristics of operation, it should be high, but at the same time remain flexible. Otherwise, the composition will not get into the places of contact of interacting elements.
2. Viscosity. Characterizes the behavior during flow and affects the rate of deformation. A rapid change in state leads to a decrease in viscosity. Engine oils behave differently; their thickness remains unchanged at certain temperatures.
3. Heat resistance. Some compositions, depending on temperature, can transform from solid to liquid. Other lubricants at lower rates break down into their components: oil and thickener. As a result of chemical influences, they can heat up, cool down, oxidize and evaporate. Such manipulations increase strength but minimize lubricating qualities.
4. Frost resistance. Affects the restoration of the frame and fluidity (does not harden) under the influence of low temperatures. A significant decrease will lead to loss of mobility of parts and delamination. The grease will not reach the required location.
5. Thixotropy. Preservation of volumetric and mechanical properties after active deformation. Intense impact leads to loss of strength for some time. Then it goes up. As a rule, the maximum values ​​are lower than the original ones, but over time they can recover. The use of unstable lubricants will lead to problems.
6. Physico-chemical stability.
7. Moisture resistance. The lubricant does not allow water to pass to the surfaces being treated.
8. Adhesion. One of the main characteristics that determines efficiency. It determines how strongly the material sticks to the surface. High-quality lubricant is difficult to remove from the elements being processed.
9. Anti-seize. Affects the protection of the part from jamming and scuffing under minor mechanical loads.
10. Anti-wear. Reduces negative consequences during friction. Not every lubricant with high wear resistance is effective against scuffing. This is due to the fact that anti-wear properties depend on the dispersed medium, while extreme pressure properties depend on the composition (additives).
11. Anti-corrosion. Effective protection against negative environmental influences and extreme conditions.

Bottom line

There are both high-quality lubrication materials and low-grade ones on the market. To avoid purchasing a weak product, it is recommended to take care of a number of questions about the product in advance. The following points must be taken into account:

• Brand reputation;
• Operational capabilities;
• Product cost;
• Reviews from experienced users.

It is important to understand that, unlike interior doors, car doors endure much greater tests. And the door on the driver’s side is subject to loads even more often, so the most extensive damage should be expected from there.

Among car enthusiasts (especially inexperienced ones), there is a widespread belief that WD-40 is suitable for any situation. This is true, the product is designed for universal use. However, WD-40 contains undesirable components that will definitely affect the condition of the lock with regular use. Also, it is worth considering that the lubricating characteristics of this product are questionable and will require updating soon after the first treatment. Accordingly, the user finds himself in a vicious circle in which he is forced to use ineffective and harmful lubricants regularly.

It is recommended to purchase high-quality lubricant that does not contain undesirable elements. In this case, the driver will not have to deal with constant processing of the lock and possible failure of it.

What are they?

1. Carbon (graphite). It consists of mineral oil with additives of the same substance and a thickener (calcium soap). The oil base imparts water-repellent properties. The resulting mass is dark brown or black. Suitable for use at temperatures from -20 to +70° C. Experts recommend using it when the lock has already begun to jam slightly and there are problems with turning the key. Significantly extends the life of the mechanism and protects against corrosion. Mainly used to preserve a car for a long time. One of the main advantages is the affordable price. Distributed in the form of aerosols.
2. Lithium. Molybdenum disulfide and lithium are used as a base. Salt has proven itself well in care products for engines, bearings, transmissions and CV joints. Lithium minimizes friction between parts and displaces moisture. The substance prevents the start of oxidation processes and the formation of rust on metal surfaces, and is also resistant to aggressive chemicals. Among the shortcomings, it should be noted the loss of a number of useful qualities when large amounts of dust enter. On the shelves, lithium grease is presented as an aerosol (cans).
3. Mineral (consistent). A time-tested product that shows impressive results. They reveal themselves well in winter, since at this time the parts are most exposed to moisture in the form of condensation. The substance has a high penetrating ability, allowing it to penetrate any keyhole without additional effort. Forms a protective film that is resistant to abrasion and washing off. Retains its qualities over a wide temperature range.
4. Polymer (silicone). Modern popular solution. The base is silicone. The substance is compatible with metal, plastic and rubber. The composition is produced by all well-known companies. The resulting film remains on the surface for 2 seasons, with careful use. For active driving, treatment is recommended 2 times a season. Works in a wide temperature range. Can be used even at -50°C. High adhesive properties reduce the time of film formation after application of the substance. The layer can withstand light pressure washing. Distributed in compact cans, sprays and tubes. The paste-like consistency is rubbed in with your hands, carefully working every curve. Manipulations are carried out in protective equipment.

How to choose?

Regardless of the manufacturer, the lubricant must meet a number of requirements:

• high viscosity;
• anti-corrosion resistance;
• lubricating qualities at a high level;
• moisture resistance;
• resistance to aggressive chemicals;
• film resistant to physical impact;
• maintaining characteristics at low and high temperatures.

Only in this case the processed elements will remain safe. To maintain the required level of protection, the film must be renewed periodically.

About WD-40

A popular product, the use of which is actively promoted by many motorists. According to them, the spray can be used to lubricate locks. The action of the product can be compared to kerosene. After cleaning the part from the old lubricant, it evaporates.

The main tasks performed by WD-40:

• displacement and removal of moisture;
• rust removal.

The spray does not protect the part from wear and friction. Regular use as a lubricant will result in the need to replace the lock. Lubricating qualities produce a short-term effect.

WD-40 is indispensable in an emergency situation (it is impossible to open a frozen locking device, or parts are stuck). But after exposure, it is necessary to use a lubricant with stable properties in the near future. Otherwise, the operation of the mechanism will deteriorate.

Alternatives

To prevent car doors from freezing, you can use special water-repellent compounds that do not contain hazardous components. This lubricant is produced by several companies - for example, TurtleWax, Wynn's and others. It contains a small amount of technical silicone, as well as polyesters and other organic components, which are included in the composition to create a durable film on the surface of the seal that retains its elasticity for a long time. Applying the composition to car door rubber bands is very simple, since it comes in the form of a spray.

There are also exotic products that also help combat door freezing. For example, in the Far North and other cold regions, bear or deer fat is used to prevent restriction of access to the car interior. Such products effectively cope with freezing, but are rarely found on sale and allow you to get the effect for only 1-2 days.

The best graphite lubricants for door locks and hinges

OILRIGHT 0.25 kg

Lubricant from a domestic manufacturer. The universal product is intended for use at home and at work. Reduces friction and ensures smooth and quiet operation of mechanisms. It has a gentle effect on the surface, and is sensitive to paint, rubber and plastic.

OILRIGHT lubricant 0.25 kg

Advantages:

• antifriction;
• anti-scuff;
• works in a wide temperature range;
• universal;
• variable volume;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• pasty;
• strong unpleasant odor.

ELTRANS 0.4 l

Despite its cost, the product is famous for its high adhesive and lubricating qualities. Creates a film resistant to high temperatures that invariably occur in friction units. The coating retains its properties after the other components have been completely depleted.

ELTRANS lubricant 0.4 l

Advantages:

• antifriction;
• Suitable for processing electrical connections;
• comfortable application to hard-to-reach places.

Flaws:

• not suitable for areas where winter temperatures drop below 20°C;
• There will be difficulties with the straw.

Golden Snail l, 400 ml

The product obtained a high level of adhesion and electrical conductivity. Combined with increased lubricating properties and resistance to high temperatures, it is most attractive to drivers who care about their vehicle. In addition to door hinges, bearings and battery terminals can be processed. The created electrically conductive coating prevents souring and sticking. It is noteworthy that finely dispersed graphite in the friction zone retains antifriction properties after the other components have already exhausted their service life.

Golden Snail l lubricant, 400 ml

Advantages:

• efficiency;
• moisture-repellent;
• antifriction;
• works in a wide temperature range.

Flaws:

• Mostly distributed in a set of 4 pieces.

Top 3. Hi-Gear Silicone Spray

Rating (2021): 4.67

64 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, All Tools, Ozone, Otzovik

The most reliable protection Silicone grease with a unique set of additives and components, providing the most reliable protection of metal parts.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 521 rub. (0.28 l)

• Country: USA
• Consistency: liquid
• Specialization: locks, hinges, seals, terminals
• Properties: anti-corrosion, anti-squeak, moisture-displacing

If your car begins to squeak, and the door opens and closes with an unimaginable roar, it needs lubrication. This product is suitable for all parts without exception. It can be poured into a door lock to improve its performance. Apply to seals to stop them squeaking, and even use on battery terminals if they often boil. According to some reputable experts, this is the best all-purpose silicone lubricant, as it can replace a whole range of sprays. True, the price is appropriate. The product is expensive and has a high consumption. But if you care about your car and want it to be reliably protected, then it is better not to skimp on such consumables.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Multi-purpose
• High quality
• Popular brand
• Recommended by car mechanics and experts

• There are many fakes
• High price
• High consumption

Best Lithium Greases for Door Locks and Hinges

VERYLUBE 320 ml

A universal consistency material developed based on the innovative Extreme Pressure formula. The product is suitable for protecting door locks, hinges and components subject to increased loads (hinges, plain and rolling bearings). A thick substance, enveloping the part, creates a coating that protects the connection from increased wear, dust, dirt and aggressive chemical compounds. Penetrates into hard-to-reach places and, due to its stickiness, remains there for a long time.

VERYLUBE lubricant 320 ml

Advantages:

• neutral to plastic, rubber, wood;
• easy application;
• sealing properties;
• prevents the start of oxidative processes;
• mechanically and chemically stable substance.

Flaws:

• not common.

AVS AVK-104 0.335 l

Unpleasant creaking of door hinges, difficult to open locks, stuck battery terminals, jammed cables - you can forget about these and many other problems with a new product from AVS. It spreads in aerosol form. This makes it easier to process mechanisms and components, since there is no need to remove and disassemble. The extension tube will make it easier for the substance to reach hard-to-reach places. The plastic structure settles tightly on the surface.

grease AVS AVK-104 0.335 l

Advantages:

• retains properties down to -40 °C;
• upper operating limit 120 °C;
• anti-corrosion;
• adhesive.

Flaws:

• the resulting effect does not last long.

Hi-Gear White lithium grease 0.312 kg

Contains a complex of additives that increase the performance characteristics of the composition. It will be appreciated by residents of cold regions, where in winter the temperature drops to -45° C. It has a gentle effect on the surface and forgives careless contact with plastic, rubber and metal. The resulting anti-corrosion coating keeps the part in its original condition for a long time.

Hi-Gear White lithium grease 0.312 kg

Advantages:

• universal;
• the film lasts for a long time;
• does not thicken in the cold;
• resistance to salts and chemicals.

Flaws:

• covers more surface than required;
• often counterfeited.

The best silicone lubricants for door locks and hinges

FELIX 0.4 l

After treatment, a polymer waterproof coating with increased slipperiness is formed on the surface. The lubricant is in demand among motorists and home craftsmen. The thick mass adheres to the part, but does not enter into a chemical reaction with it. The thin long spout will make it easier to access problem areas with limited space. When sprayed, the substance will only fall into strictly designated areas. The spout increases accuracy and efficiency.

FELIX lubricant 0.4 l

Advantages:

• large packaging;
• affordable price;
• work in confined spaces;
• professional composition;
• does not interact with the part.

Flaws:

• too runny;
• not the best atomization;
• There is no provision for a tube mount.

LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line Silicone-Spray 0.4 l

Does not contain fats and mineral oils. The main purpose is to separate and preserve surfaces with a silicone base. Can be used to preserve a car. The film with antiseptic properties does not attract dust. The manufacturing company acts as a guarantor of quality. She has shown herself well all over the world and needs no introduction.

lubricant LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line Silicon-Spray 0.4 l

Advantages:

• German quality;
• universal;
• conservation;
• antifriction properties;
• penetrates into hard-to-reach places.

Flaws:

• often counterfeited;
• during manipulations, the material scatters in different directions;
• the place of manufacture is not indicated.

Top 4. LIQUI MOLY Wartungs-Spray Weiss

Rating (2021): 4.64

72 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, All Tools, Ozone, Otzovik

The most popular lubricant is a dirt-repellent lubricant that has collected the most reviews on popular marketplaces and specialized forums.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 770 rub. (0.25 l)

• Country: Germany
• Consistency: plastic
• Specialization: locks, hinges, chains
• Properties: anti-corrosion, anti-friction

It is impossible to determine by eye the condition of the door lock. You need to either open the door, or use a 100% lubricant and protection product. We have before us exactly the kind of product that you can trust unconditionally. This is the best lubricant with protective properties, capable of pushing out moisture and maximally enveloping parts. If the car begins to creak, you can also lubricate the rubber seals. The lubricant has very high adhesion. It interacts with any materials, and they may be partially contaminated. And in cold weather it will easily defrost the door in your car. In general, the best lubricant, but at the same time the most expensive.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Best Features
• Lots of user reviews
• Plastic consistency
• Can be applied without removing contaminants

• Very high price
• Virtually no copy protection