[golfpro]

I've just discovered that my key won't unlock the doors. It works fine in the ignition switch and rear hatch, but not the doors. I have keyless remote and the doors lock and unlock fine with the remote. What's wrong with my key?

Many owners with remote entry power locks never use their key to unlock either the driver or passenger doors. Years of disuse will allow corrosion to build up within the lock cylinder to the point that it will freeze up.

Try the following to see if it helps any:

1. Try spraying liberal amounts of WD-40 inside the lock with the little hose attachment that comes with it. Now spray it again, and again, and again. Stick your key inside the lock and pull it back out. Repeat this process 15-20 times. You can also spray WD-40 on the key itself and insert it into the lock.

2. Then using your key. If it does not work try GENTLY wiggling it up and down, left to right to see if you can get it to turn. Try again and again until you get tired of trying. Apply enough pressure to try and turn the lock, but not so much that you might bend your key.

3. Pull your key out of the lock about .5-1mm and try wiggling/turning at the same time. Keep wiggling and try again.

If none of this works then something really weird is going on. Usually the above will work on a worn key, or if there is a bent wafer. All the jiggling should allow the wafer to move enough to turn the lock. If it's merely atrophy from lack of use, the lubricant should free up the lock cylinder. If all else fails you might have to have a new key cut. Go to reputable locksmith for this service, not your neighborhood hardware store, or Walmart. If a new key does not solve the problem, you may have to remove the lock cylinder itself and have it cleaned or repaired. Again, by a reputable locksmith.

I have had three cars with seized lock cylinders and the WD-40 treatment worked on all three. For regular maintenance of your door locks, a lubricant that will not attract dirt and grime should be used. Powdered grahite lubricant is best.

-golfpro (Thanks to "tockaygecko" for an early post that provided the basis for this information.