Key won't turn driver door lock

[Qyota]

Thought I'd start a new thread, since I can't modify the title of this related thread:

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...s-when-unlocked-using-key-fob.html#post697059

My master key (with transponder) will not turn the driver door lock. The lock just resists any motion to the left or right. I've tried alcohol (lock de-icer), electronics cleaner, and graphite with no success. I'm starting to think this is an electronic problem, as the door lock is actually what Toyota calls an "electromagnetic" system.

Anyone had this happen before? Luckily, my fob still unlocks the doors, and the inside door lock switch works...but I want to be able to use the key if necessary.

Important to note - the key does work in the passenger door lock and the rear hatch lock.

 

[footdoc]

same thing. I have a spare which unlocks it just fine, and i can get in through the passenger side without a hitch.

 

[Qyota]

Oo - so your spare key works when the master doesn't? I have two masters that don't work...haven't tried the valet key (no transponder in that one).

 

[GX4SEVEND]

I have the same issue but its either key, but it doesn't happen all the time. Just once in a while

 

[nacho]

Shoot some spray silicone in there using the red straw that came with the can. Mine was doing that. It's smooth as silk now.

 

[Blitzkrieg]

I've never once used my key to unlock my 4Runner. LOL

 

[Jamacee]

I can't help you but I can say I am dealing with the same.

Mine is actually doing the same thing. Of course it is random. Sometimes it unlocks the door on the drivers side and or pass side. My key doesn't work in the tailgate either. I don't know if it is supposed to roll the back glass down or just unlock the hatch.

Now my fancy clicker (1st time I have ever owned a vehicle with a lock/unlock doohickey) will only unlock my Drivers door but not all the doors. I also have to dbl click the unlock for it to work. same for locking it.

the rear window rolldown button doesn't work either.

 

[coffeeguy]

Try a product like 5 in 1 oil(Or any seeping penatrating oil). Worked really well with the ignition in an 05 Volvo that suddenly decided it didn't want to turn(to start)

 

[Qyota]

I've tried a few things. I'd rather not gunk it up, though. It really seems like the electronics behind the lock aren't letting it go. Or, the wafers/tumblers in the cylinder aren't responding to the cleaning and lubricating agents I've used. I'm going to take it out someday and see if I can take it apart.

 

[nacho]

SILICONE spray is the way to go.

 

[kball]

If your key is old and worn you can try having the dealer make a new one off the VIN. If that doesn't work, (which it didn't for me on my 96) the lock is probably broken. I just posted a write up about fixing my lock a few weeks back.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/79145-door-lock-replacement-96-runner.html

 

[Qyota]

Great write-up! The only thing that's different is that my lock cylinder has an electrical component to it. It has 4 wires running from the lock to the actuator, and then into the main door harness. So, I'm not convinced it's not an electrical issue, since my alarm goes off when I hit the unlock button on my fob (yes, that problem is back...or never went away).

I have a new key, and it works fine in the passenger door (all my keys do), and the rear hatch. Something is up with that driver door lock cylinder or actuator.

 

[RoyR]

Awesome...last night after a scuba dive session (COLD), I tried to unlock both the driver's side door and the tailgate with no success using the key...had to call AAA to open the truck (2005 4Runner)...WTF????

 

[flappn]

Awesome...last night after a scuba dive session (COLD), I tried to unlock both the driver's side door and the tailgate with no success using the key...had to call AAA to open the truck (2005 4Runner)...WTF????

I would try getting a new key cut at the dealer..you'll need your VIN#. I had issues with some locks and the ignition....had a new key cut...and everything worked again. I tried having one cut at a local HW store and it was crap.

 

[cyclops13]

Damn. Even I am facing this issue on my 1997 SR5. I do not have keyless entry (remote controlled).

The key works fine for unlocking the drivers door and works fine for locking/unlocking all other doors. But the key just would not turn anticlockwise (to lock) on the drivers side door. If I use the door lock switch from the inside or use the key to lock on passenger side door, it works fine.

What could be wrong here?

P.S. Sorry for reviving an old thread.

 

[Robb235]

I'm having the same problem with my '99. I only have one key and it is having trouble unlocking the driver side door. It does fine on the passenger side door and rear hatch.

 

[kball]

Have you guys tried having the dealer or locksmith make a new key off the vin?

 

[awdxtc]

I hate to bring up an old thread but I am having the same issue, I have what looks to be the original key and two aftermarket spares, none of them will lock or unlock the doors, the original will lock and unlock the glove box, they all work in the ignition. The keys will not even go into the locks. What could be the issue?

 

[MyHigh]

If you keys won't even go into the lock you could either have a foreign object in there, or possibly a stuck wafer. Try some dry lubrication such as tri-lube. Many users put WD-40 this will work but is not optimal because it's considered a wet lube. A wet lube will allow more dust to gather and get caught up in the very fine moving parts within the lock mechanism.

 

[awdxtc]

Thanks for the advice, I will give it a try.