Manual Door Lock completely seized, tried the usual stuff

[nalbertasr5]

Hi guys

It was a bad winter. Even had a few days where it was -50c (-56F!!) Locks were frozen, battery almost completely died. Sometimes I wonder why I live where the air hurts my face

Anyway, I've discovered that I can't get into my 4runner using the actual key. The fob works, but I don't want to rely solely on that for emergency purposes. I've tried penetrating oils, WD-40, you name it. No luck. Driver's side lock the key goes in but won't turn. On the passenger side door lock the key will only go halfway in. I tried the stuff mentioned in another thread I found.

I'm in the process of removing the lock cylinder from one of the doors and cleaning it up. Maybe I should give it a nice bath in some penetrating oil? Anyone have a favorite lube they like to use? (no pun intended)

 

[JZiggy]

Maybe preheat it somewhat with a hot air gun or air dryer to help encourage the lube to flow in?

My personal favorite is Kroil but you may not be able to get it there.

 

[pluton]

I squirt Tri Flow into my locks several times a year. No info on how it works at sub-zero temps, tho...sorry.
Once you get the locks out, I'd recommend flushing them with solvent (spray like Brake Kleen, Lectra Motive, etc or immerse it in a jar of solvent like paint thinner, naptha, etc. THEN lube it with a light oil suitable for winter.

 

[heat]

I use spray (dry) graphite. Coat a key first then work it. Maybe
a cleaning first, depends on the lock. All bets off if it's still
stuck, though.