Car door key problem

UncommonName on 29/05/2014 - 20:15
Last edited 30/05/2014 - 00:58

I'm having a problem with my driver side door. Its difficult to key in and turn the key from today. The passenger side door works just fine as well as the boot. The ignition turns in smooth. Car is a 1997 TF Magna. No keyless entry system and I have only one key, no spares.

Edit: Applied Graphite powder on the key surface and then keyed in, it worked!

Now, I want to know what OZB community suggest for my alternative access option into the car. Should I get a generic keyless entry (90$) or should I make a duplicate key (100$) or should I do both (190 - 20% discount = 152$)? Note that, the car costed 1100$ but it will cost 1300$ to reset the locks from Mitsubishi dealer in case the key gets lost.

Automotive

Comments

  • sraymond on 29/05/2014 - 20:56
    +3

    Most likely one of the plastic clips inside the door that attach the door levers to the barrel have broken. Take the door trim off and have a look.
    Otherwise, just buy a new barrel and get it keyed by a locksmith.

  • GLO on 29/05/2014 - 23:41
    +2

    or try WD40 or Graphite Powder in the keyhole!

    • UncommonName on 30/05/2014 - 00:52

      Immediately after posting for help, I went to local MR Minit and the nice guy there applied Graphite powder in my key and then keyed in, it worked! No problem so far. I have searched on internet forums and WD40 is absolutely no go for locks! It is a solvent and may cause harm to the electrical interior of modern car locks and ignition.

  • Geewhizz on 30/05/2014 - 09:02
    +1

    Someone hasn't tried breaking into it and damaged the lock have they?

    • UncommonName on 30/05/2014 - 10:31

      The guy at Mr Minit suspects that. I don't understand why would anyone try to break into such a worn down old car, has plenty of dents (it looks ugly!).

  • altomic on 30/05/2014 - 09:17

    For inexpensive alternates you could do this

    or this

  • Bagath on 30/05/2014 - 09:36

    Hi All,

    I had an attempted car break-in on my car…similar situation.

    I own a 1996 Holden Apollo (same as Camry). Someone tried to break my driver-side door lock unsuccessfully(in Wilson Secure Car Park, Sydney CBD!!!).
    Not sure why that person want to break into a $1000 car. But they have damaged the lock. I can only open the doors via the passenger side now (which is a hassle with new born and a toddler). I have three set of keys.

    My mechanic asked me to buy a door lock from a wrecker, and then give it to a locksmith, and "get the lock fixed, to suit the existing keys". Once done he can fix it my car. I have bought the door lock(costed me $10), and now looking for a affordable locksmith. I have been quoted $35-$45 in couple of places(Auburn, and Flemington (NSW)).

    Can anyone please recommend a more affordable locksmith.

    • UncommonName on 30/05/2014 - 13:31

      I was told that it'd cost me 350$ for a new lock with labor, so replace it with the quote you have received.

    • altomic on 03/06/2014 - 09:34

      you could try it yourself. check out this youtube vid. remember - you don't have to put all the pins back in. just 1 to stop the barrel from turning.

      because who is to know that the lock has only 1 pin? and can be opened with a fork? like you said, it's a $1000 1996 apollo/camry.

      • Geewhizz on 04/06/2014 - 07:23

        because who is to know that the lock has only 1 pin? and can be opened with a fork?

        Only the first thief who tries.

  • SavatteDodo on 03/06/2014 - 10:12

    Hey mate,

    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/140415

    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/136472

    I can see you're still playing with the Magna. Third post already. ;)

    • UncommonName on 03/06/2014 - 13:49

      Hey Varun, who knew someone would try to steal a shitty Magna! :)

      As you know I'm a new car owner, this magna is my first car so already got attached to it. Can't ditch it :( Now I've to get a remote entry and extra spare key just to be safe.

      • SavatteDodo on 03/06/2014 - 15:32

        Haha good on you mate. My advice would be never get attached to material things.

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