Low-temperature lube for sticky trunk lock mechanism

[twX]

My trunk latch mechanism stopped latching closed last winter in cold temperatures (below -5C or so). It would latch properly after heating it up with a blow drier. I sprayed some lube into it (I believe WD40 first, then some white lithium grease). Eventually it started working properly, but this may have been partly due to the warming weather. So far this winter it has worked down to -20C, until today when it got stuck in more mild conditions.

Anyway, I'd like to know what the best lube would be to try, before I replace the latch with a new one. I'd like to use something that is good in low temperatures (down to -35C) and available in a spray.

 

[AutoMechanic]

I use WD40 and Lucas Tool Box Buddy spray on mine. My buddy likes the Houdini brand spray for his trunk and tailgate. If winter gives it issues maybe get some Lock De-Icer it comes in a spray can too and is like a lubricant. I use the sprays listed above year round and they don’t give me any issues ever.

 

[JimPghPA]

WD-40 is not an oil. It has a very thin solvent in it to carry the chemicals that will protect metal from rusting even after the solvent evaporates. But the solvent may provide some temporary lubrication for a week or two before it evaporates. And the solvent may flush out dirt. But the chemicals that are left behind to protect metal from corrosion may actually hinder parts from moving once the solvent is gone.

 

[atikovi]

Silicone spray?

 

[oldhp]

Spray it out with brake cleaner. Let it dry. Spray it it with silicone spray. You are good to go then.

 

[AutoMechanic]

Won’t silicone spray harden? I’ve always been told it does. I know it’s good for rubber products.

 

[SWS]

look at WD-40 Specialist® Gel Lube, also called ‘Spray & Stay Gel Lubricant’
It claims to have a very wide temp range.
I bought it for my door latch - also concerned about winter operation. Thus far I am impressed with it. Gel really sticks. Interestingly, it is a rattle can.

 

[Oro_O]

I use garage door lube now. I've tried a lot of specialty lubes; most are redundant with other things, and there are a simply ridiculous number of specialty lubes on the market now. This kills a lot of needs in one can.

Basically it's a gussied-up silicone spray lube, but it sticks and doesn't attract dust. Great for a lot of uses. Other sprays can work as well.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/3-IN-ONE-11-oz-Garage-Door-Lube/3348342

 

[cos]

+1 for brake cleaner then your favorite spray lube (e.g. PB Blaster's Dry Lube with Teflon)

 

[Jetronic]

Won’t silicone spray harden? I’ve always been told it does. I know it’s good for rubber products.

No sot at -35 anyway. It has silicone oil in it and a propellant. Silicone oil not unlike dot5 brake fluid...

 

[Oildudeny]

What’s the latch assembly made of nylon, metal, mix of both do you have an electric trunk release? Clean the mechanism with rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle unless you find brake kleen to not harm the mechanism. Then blow it out with compressed air.. I’d use a dry lube or graphite. You can also spray rubber trunk seals with silicone spray on a rag keep the rag in your trunk and when you do use the trunk wipe the seals before closing so any moisture won’t freeze up between the trunk and rubber seals

You can use a lite fingers coating of white grease also... may be better for use if the latch is nylon...

 

[zfasts03]

I haven't used it yet, but is on it's way...

Amazon.com

 

[Snagglefoot]

Our local locksmith uses Amsoil MP ( metal protector) in all lock mechanisms.

 

[AutoMechanic]

No sot at -35 anyway. It has silicone oil in it and a propellant. Silicone oil not unlike dot5 brake fluid...

Appreciate the clarification.

 

[nthach]

I’d use a dry lube or a very light bike chain lube.

I think Lock-Ease will work too. It’s graphite in a light carrier oil.

 

[Jetronic]

If the lock appears to be freezing, something that repels water would be my first choice...

 

[twX]

The lock mechanism is a power lock in a plastic housing, like this. I don't think I'll use brake cleaner. The mechanism is mostly enclosed. I don't think I'll use brake cleaner to clean it out. Maybe compressed air and then a silicone lube. I can't imagine there is water in the latch that has frozen up but I might spray some lock antifreeze in there first.

 

[Oildudeny]

The lock mechanism is a power lock in a plastic housing, like this. I don't think I'll use brake cleaner. The mechanism is mostly enclosed. I don't think I'll use brake cleaner to clean it out. Maybe compressed air and then a silicone lube. I can't imagine there is water in the latch that has frozen up but I might spray some lock antifreeze in there first.

Good idea skip the brake kleen use compressed air or rubbing alcohol to break down any grime and gunk. A silicone grease sounds like your best choice

 

[twX]

spray harden? I’ve always been told it does. I know it’s good for rubber products.

 

[spasm3]

look at WD-40 Specialist® Gel Lube, also called ‘Spray & Stay Gel Lubricant’
It claims to have a very wide temp range.
I bought it for my door latch - also concerned about winter operation. Thus far I am impressed with it. Gel really sticks. Interestingly, it is a rattle can.

I would be concerned that the gel lube, like a grease , would hold metal chips.
With time and wear, jamb up the lock.