door lock problem

[Walterab]

I have inherited my dad's 99 Ranger. It has 78k miles on it. Manual door locks. I have two keys for it and they both will work the ignition but will not turn either door lock. Neither key will work to unlock either door. The key does not turn at all. I can push the lock down and then unlock it by using the inside door handle. So that part works fine. The keys will not lock or unlock the door. They are Ford keys. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[lainemech]

I've never owned a Ranger, but I'll give you what I would guess the problem would/could be. Actually, it is probably one of two possible causes:

#1- lock cylinders are dry and corroded. If the key is hard going in to the keyhole this is probably all it is. Just lube it up and work it gently back and forth till it starts working again. This is probably the least likely cause.

#2- Someone had the ignition switch changed somewhere along the life of the truck and didn't give you the door keys. This is the most likely cause and would require the aid of a good auto locksmith or the dealer to re-key things for you.

Just my opinion. I'm by no means a locksmith.

 

[FORD SUV GUY]

They are probably frozen up from lack of use. This has happened on pretty much every vehicle(only buy Fords)I have ever owned. My suggestion is that you lubricate the lock cylinders using a silicone spray or graphite lubricant.(though any lube will work) Simply insert the straw provided w/the spray inside the lock where you would normally insert your key and spray enough to thoroughly lubrice the tumblers. Then as mentioned above gently work your key in the lock trying to get things moving again. You may need to repeat the process more then once depending on how stubborn your locks are.

 

[Walterab]

fixed

WD40 worked. I will get some graphite lubricant and re-do the job. Thanks to you all for the help.

 

[bilzy7]

Ya i got similar issue with mu 98 expo. Key takes a couple tries to turn drivers door lock. Im gonna have to lube it. It usta only do it when really cold.