Driver door lock won't work

[lihtning]

I have a 2012 base explorer. Just wondering if anyone has been unable to put the key in the door and turn it to unlock (manually). The key goes in completely fine but won't turn either way. I've tried various lubricants but no luck. I'd hate to be stuck with a dead battery and not able to get into the explorer. Anyone else have this problem?? Or what to do?? I'm assuming this is just party of the 3 year warranty?

 

[peterk9]

I have a 2012 base explorer. Just wondering if anyone has been unable to put the key in the door and turn it to unlock (manually). The key goes in completely fine but won't turn either way. I've tried various lubricants but no luck. I'd hate to be stuck with a dead battery and not able to get into the explorer. Anyone else have this problem?? Or what to do?? I'm assuming this is just party of the 3 year warranty?

Does the key work on the passenger side? If it does then perhaps something happened to the lock itself and it may have to be replaced. Do you have the Securicode feature on the driver's side door? Can't recall if the Base model has it. The factory warranty, if still in effect, should cover it. The PremiumCare ESP covers cylinder locks.

Peter

 

[lihtning]

Base doesn't have the secure code.
Also, no key hole on the passenger side (again, base model).
I didn't buy an extended service plan.
It just hit 4 years old last week.

 

[peterk9]

Base doesn't have the secure code.
Also, no key hole on the passenger side (again, base model).
I didn't buy an extended service plan.
It just hit 4 years old last week.

Thanks for the reply. Very surprised that the Base model doesn't have a keyed lock on the passenger side. That definitely limits your options. If the lock suddenly stopped working, I doubt it would be a lubrication issue. Unless someone else can recommend a solution, it looks like a dealer visit may be required. That, or a locksmith. You may be able to get at the lock by removing the door panel but there isn't likely much you can do to repair it.

Peter

 

[dco43054]

You may have a maintenance issue, which would not be covered by warranty, if the lock is just gummed up. The lubricants recommended for door locks are usually the dry graphite kind to keep dirt from collecting.

Alternatively, you could have a broken lock, which might be covered depending on your mileage and data of purchase.

The problem you have is you don't know what the cause is, so you pretty much have to have the dealer look at it if you even think it might be covered and want to have a chance of being reimbursed.

 

[peterk9]

......Alternatively, you could have a broken lock, which might be covered depending on your mileage and data of purchase......

No factory warranty or ESP. (see post 3)

Peter

 

[Johnson Cooper]

In such cases don't take stress and call the locksmith , they have the master key which can unlock the door and if not then they use special tools to open the door.