Spare tire lock - how to remove winter salt build up?

[royaljelly]

I just noticed that the little lock on my rear spare tire (Rav4) is all salted over to the point that I can't even put the key in to open it.

Any tips on how to remove the salt easily? Should I just soak it in some hot water or use that C-L-R stuff?

[ES_Revenge]

Salt dissolves in water, if it doesn't then what you are calling salt is probably corrosion... Use a penetrating oil to try to loosen it up. Stuff like Zep Twister or Liquid Wrench might be of use in this situation.

To avoid rust in the future use a rust prevention product like Rust Check Coat and Protect. Reapply as necessary, particularly paying attention in the winter months.