Driver door key lock not working

[Tyger255]

Tried searching around for some info but no luck.

Ordered two need keys off amazon and had them cut today. I know they would not start the 4 runner because they are not programed so I tried them in the door with no luck. Then I tried the factory key and it would not lock or unlock the drivers door either. So I tried both keys in the rear hatch and the new and factory key both work with no issue. I tired the new key in the ignition and it would crank the 4 runner but because its not programed it would not start.

So, what is going on with the drivers door? It locks and unlocks with no issues with the remote, just will not lock or unlock using a physical key.

 

[WhiteGoat]

I have the same problem. Unfortunately I found it when I had my battery out for replacement... Hood closed...tools locked in 4runner. My guess is the rod that attaches to the actuator assembly popped off. I plan on using the steps outlined in the door lock actuator replacement thread to remove the door panel to find/fix the issue. Good luck. Post solution if you find one.

 

[boyguan]

Tried searching around for some info but no luck.

Ordered two need keys off amazon and had them cut today. I know they would not start the 4 runner because they are not programed so I tried them in the door with no luck. Then I tried the factory key and it would not lock or unlock the drivers door either. So I tried both keys in the rear hatch and the new and factory key both work with no issue. I tired the new key in the ignition and it would crank the 4 runner but because its not programed it would not start.

So, what is going on with the drivers door? It locks and unlocks with no issues with the remote, just will not lock or unlock using a physical key.

does it not turn?
most likely sticky tumbler inside. spray some lube and slide the key in and out

not go in?
spray lube and let sit

turn but not unlock?
need to remove door panel to make sure things are connected.

 

[scanny]

I got issue when I was unable to turn key in rear hatch. Fixed it by spraying Break Free CLP in key hole and next day lock was working just fine.

 

[plefasu]

I had replaced the motor on my actuator and didnt get it put back in right and my manual key wasnt working. There is a bar that runs from the lock to the actuator that has to be in place for it to work. It was kind of a pain to get it to slide in properly but wasnt too big of a task. I had to remove the 3 star screws on the actuator to get it to go into place.

 

[Tyger255]

does it not turn?
most likely sticky tumbler inside. spray some lube and slide the key in and out

not go in?
spray lube and let sit

turn but not unlock?
need to remove door panel to make sure things are connected.

It turns as it should, feels like it's working properly, just nothing happens. I hope to have time to pull the door panel off and look at it this weekend. I'm hoping it's just a rod or something as others have suggested.

 

[Bassfan22]

Do you know if it is a mechanical lock cylinder or a electrical one. Or the answer to why the key won`t unlock the door. Tried the valet key in the fob, it turs freely left and right but would not unlock the door on drivers side. My main battery was dead Fob not unlocking, changed battery in fob nothing. Called lock our company Got in 4 runner, pulled hood release opened hood Exchanged battery Started 4 runner Everything great except the Valet key in fob still not working. Sprayed lubricant inside keyhole Still turned freely nothing happens no sound of clicking . Any info greatly appreciated

 

[flyrv9]

Do a search on door lock actuators. There is a history of actuator issues with the 5th gen 4Runners. Look up the thread "drivers door lock actuator repair step by step" by mbumpus11 on 8/13/2017. It has pics and info on how to change an actuator motor (most common failure item) and where to get replacements.