UPVC Door Lock problem

sawdox

I'm not sure what has happened to the lock on my upvc door but it has stopped working properly. The key will still turn the locking mechanism but not in the right sequence - i.e. when I have supposedly locked the door the key will not come out until I have re-opened the door and pushed the handle up again. The door keeps getting stuck in the locked position and the key doesn't quite seem to be at "12 o'clock" when I try to pull it out. Any ideas what the problem could be (the door is safely closed and locked but I'm not using it at the moment)? Is the whole locking system broke or might it just be the cylinder? Is it easily fixed?
thanks

loracan1

It could be something as simple as the lock - is it a euro cylinder? They're available from most hardware shops, B&Q, Wickes etc.

Is there anything in the way in the slots on the frame when you engage the door handle upwards?

sawdox

There doesn't seem to be anything in the way of the frame. When I have the ajar and turn the key, all the hooks and locks work ok.
How can I tell for definite if it is the cylinder? I think it is a euro cylinder.
thanks

loracan1

These are similar to the ones I have. You have to measure them (or take the original along) to get the correct replacement. There's a screw in the side of the door to remove it, dead simple to replace and cost about £12 to buy. (Think mine were from Wickes)

I don't know how you'd tell if it was just the lock that's causing problems but when one of mine failed it started being difficult to lock, sometimes it'd work, sometimes not, replaced the lock and it's fine.

sawdox

thanks - I'll give that a try!