sticky door locks

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AZcruiser

AZcruiser

Joined
Jun 24, 2003
Threads
56
Messages
327
Location
phoenix
Anyone have any problems turning the key in lock? Im in Phoenix so its not cold so its mechanical. My key fob isnt workign so using the key, its been getting real bad to the point I have to walk around to use passenger door to activate the electric unlock then walk back around to get in...embarrasing in a crowded parking lot!
WD-40? or do I have to take the door apart for another solution?

Thanks
C
 
Having the same problem. Gonna pick up some lock graphite powder tomorrow and squirt it in there. If that doesn't work probably wet the key with WD-40 and then put it in the lock. Hey, you should try it first and tell me if it works. :flipoff2: :D
 
the key fits fine its turning it to the right to unlock. It feels like something is keeping it from rotating, after a couple of gentle wiggles it unlocks, so I dont break the key.
 
I have had this issue to one degree or another on a few 80s over the years.

1 - NEVER put WD-40 in any lock. It's not designed for this and will in fact thicken and sludge up the lock permanently. You'll need to run a solvent cleaner in it at some point later. Use liquid graphite, which does not sludge up or freeze.

2 - The tip of your key is likely worn into more of a point than it should have, which is a typical key wear pattern and allows the key to penetrate a bit too far. Every 5 years or so, go to a Toyota Dealer and give them your VIN so they can cut a factory perfect brand new key. It does not use the outline of your worn out key like any other key shop would. Pay the $10 a key and be happy Toyota has this service. Not at all dealers - call in advance.

DougM
 
Doug M. -
I got a new key cut via my VIN at my Toyota stealer yesterday. Also tried graphite in the key slot. Still no resolve. The lock assembly feels like its out of line maybe. The sticking lock is about half the time now. Anyone have to go as far as replacing the entire lock set. Weird thing is the pass. side sticks just as much. Once the key is in and I can rotate it to the right to unlock its fine - I can turn the key left, right as may times as I want and is smooth its just the intial turn that get stuck. The power lcoks seem fine no apparent problems there.
Anyone have this much problem??
 
I've got the same problem as well. I think the PO never used the key locks, but instead relied only on the keyfob. After 7 years of unuse I think the locks aren't too healthy. This is even with a newly cut key from the VIN.
 
One thing on the lock graphite...you want to use A LOT. Much more than one would think. Squirt some in, then work the key back and forth, then repeat, and repeat and so on. The more you use the better it will get.
 
Agree Josh. That's how I've used it after initial unsatisfactory results. Just watch that for the next week your key will be filthy each time you use it and it will trash your pants or anything you touch. I'm currently wiping the key each time I use it with a towel and it's been almost a week..

DougM
 
Darwood said:
I've got the same problem as well. I think the PO never used the key locks, but instead relied only on the keyfob. After 7 years of unuse I think the locks aren't too healthy. This is even with a newly cut key from the VIN.
Click to expand...

I must disagree with you Darwood after 7 years? 1st of all don't ya all mostly use the keyless entry remote? i hardly use the key to get in, and to convince me
i just use my key now manually and still work fine. But could be some work some dont try use the WD-40.
 
LX_TREME said:
I must disagree with you Darwood after 7 years? 1st of all don't ya all mostly use the keyless entry remote? i hardly use the key to get in, and to convince me
i just use my key now manually and still work fine. But could be some work some dont try use the WD-40.
Click to expand...

DO NOT use WD40. It is not a lubricant. It was designed to displace water in electrical and electronic components. Graphite is the proper tool for the job.
 
LX_TREME said:
I must disagree with you Darwood after 7 years? 1st of all don't ya all mostly use the keyless entry remote? i hardly use the key to get in, and to convince me
i just use my key now manually and still work fine. But could be some work some dont try use the WD-40.
Click to expand...

That's great that you disagree, but what other explanation is there for my locks not working with the old beat up key and a new cut key from the VIN? Both the passenger and driver's side are hard to use. I really do think the locks seized up after years of unuse. My truck lived most of it's life in Las Vegas, Nevada, which is a very dry climate. The dry climate could also be some of the reason for the locks seizing.
 
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I have not used graphite before. When my locks were being a little uncooperative, I used spray silicone and it worked well, plus it does give you pencil marks everywhere! Is there something about silicone that I do not know that we should not use it in this situation?
 
:flipoff2: I had this same thing going on.
Rather than replace lock cylinders I just got keyless entry put on.
No problems now.
Wonder how badly locked up the lock is now.
Haven't used the key in over a year. :flipoff2:
Work arounds sometimes better
 
fzj80kidpen said:
:flipoff2: I had this same thing going on.
Rather than replace lock cylinders I just got keyless entry put on.
No problems now.
Wonder how badly locked up the lock is now.
Haven't used the key in over a year. :flipoff2:
Work arounds sometimes better
Click to expand...


Keyless entry? Is this from a toyota vehicle, after market, _or_ _xplore_? This might be a cool mod that many will be interested in. However, if it was from a _xplore_, you my want to post your write up with pictures, then change your screen name :D
 
I used LOTs of graphite and so far the new key works fine. My fob doesnt work anymore and too lazy to get a replacement, maybe nows the time.
 
Regarding the replacement Toyota keys.........

do they have a nice rubber grip or are they just a plain metal key?

I know it's a stupid question. Mine are pretty worn and I would like some nicer feeling/looking keys.
 
I got a generic replacement key from the dealership that had a plastic grip not unlike OEM. I think you should be able to get a key just like the original key. CDan should know for sure.
 
Just bought a few keys from Cdan. He can cut them with your VIN number and they're like they were new versus having someone essentially cut a key from your worn key. Worn keys can create issues.

DougM
 
Its just a plain plastic end key, $5 for the generic and $12 for the super duper key with molded in Toyota!
 
I have two laser cut keys by vin # and they work better than the original keys which came with the truck. I would definately recomment newly cut keys and graphite, lots of graphite.
 
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