I can't use my keys, keypad or power locks.

[Amie]

HI~ Boy am I glad I found you guys... I'm brand new to this Forum thing. I have never done this sort of thing online before but I'm in need of some help. I own a Ford Explorer Sport, 2 dr, 2001... my keys don't work in ANY of the locks (side or rear) I suppose that would be my first question... Got any fixes for that? A new key? new locks? lube maybe?
I have been using my exterior keypad under the driver side door handle for about 3 or 4 years now with out fail... well, now it's failing. In fact, even the inside automatic lock/unlock button will no longer unlock the driver side door anymore. A couple of months ago I had to change my driver side mirror and I'm wondering if we broke something or screwed something into a wire or otherwise caused this break to happen? And of course I'm wondering how I can fix it with out spending a fortune at a dealership. Any Detailed help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[little x]

Welcome to the forum Amie. It sounds like at some point perhaps your ignition cylinder was replaced, such that your truck would need 1 key to run, but another to open the doors. I can't be of too much help (I own a different gen. X). But if you start a thread asking this question in the "Stock 95-01" section they should be able to help you (not that many folks actually come through this section).

 

[Amie]

Thank You little X but I'm not so sure about that... more detail: The key used to work "sort of" when I bought the truck used.... It took a little shake or jiggle to get it to turn but the key did work in all locks at one time... due to the fact that it was a pain to jiggle every time I just quit using the key holes and have relied on the keypad to unlock it since.
Does this information still lead you to your last statement? Thanks again for your help!!

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! I've renamed, and moved this thread for you.

 

[Amie]

O.K. Thank You, How do I find it?

 

[BrooklynBay]

It's in this caterory: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=100. There is still a link in the New Members Forum with the original title of your name.

 

[Amie]

AH HA found it.. my apologies I'm too new to this. Thank You much~!

 

[Sams01XplrSprt]

welcome

 

[gold_expl]

Sounds like you have the same issue that i had with the locks, I can SOMETIMES get my key to work, but usually not. Just go in through the back hatch also you probably have some sort of electrical issue if none of the power locks work at all. I am not so good with the locking system of explorers so I can't be of any help there... look through some threads here is my advice. Anyways for the locks try some Graphite lube and just don't use too much like I did! another option is to get a can of compressed air and blow the $h!t out of the locks and see if anything comes out. if those suggestions dont work, your tumblers are probably bent or dis-shaped, which sucks. You're not the only one out there with an 01' sport that cant open the doors with the key!! I think this should be recalled!!

check out my thread on the issue: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums//showthread.php?t=219635

 

[99SportX]

I have a similar problem on the drivers door of my 99 sport.

I cannot open it with a key either. A small spring broke inside the door latching mechanism. As a result, the key cannot turn and unlock the latch. A little lever needs some preload from that spring in order to allow the key to turn. I rely on my power locks for that door, but my passenger side still works.

Before I discovered that the spring was broken, one part of the spring was jammed in the mechanism and there were times when my power lock would not work on that door and I couldn't even get out of the truck. I had to hop over the console and go out the pass. side door. I have the power lock working reliably now, and I believe it was because I removed the last piece of the broken spring. My passenger side door is still fully functional though. Once that spring goes though, I will be relying entirely on my electrical system (shaved the rear lock/button thing).

 

[hazmat456]

check for broken or chafed wires in the rubber boot of the drivers door hinge area

 

[briwayjones]

As far as the key not working in the locks but they used to, it's a common thing for the locks to bind up and need lubricating. What you're supposed to use to do that is graphite powder. You should be able to find it at an auto store. Put some in there and work the key in and out and jiggle it around. It should un-seize after a while.

 

[gijoecam]

If the key will not turn in the doors, there are two possibilities: Either the previous owner had the ignition lock cylinder replaced, or the lock cylinders in the doors have frozen due to lack of use. If they won't turn at all, it's not likely the spring issue... With the keyless entry, and remote entry used 99.99% of the time, it's not uncommon for the lock tumblers to freeze.

Dry graphite won't free up the locks if they're corroded in place. A liquid lock lube or even some simple WD-40 will help free them up. Graphite lube after they're moving will stop that from happening again.

Use the key in the locks once a month or so to keep them moving and free. Worked for me for the last 10 years.

 

[Cobraguy]

Clean your lock cylinders as best you can. CRC Brakekleen works wonders. Spray the heck out of them and blow them dry if you can. Otherwise, let them sit for a few minutes to dry on their own. (this is why you use Brakekleen...it dries fast with no residue) Once clean and dry, lube with graphite. I'll bet you a cold one your locks operate. I've had to do this with MANY vehicles. Folks just don't use keys to lock and unlock their doors any more. Very common problem.

 

[my98nnj]

Folks just don't use keys to lock and unlock their doors any more. Very common problem.

Is that what that key hole like thing in all my vehicles doors are for?

I thought that was just a peep hole.

Often thought how I would get into my car if my remote stopped working?

 

[gold_expl]

Often thought how I would get into my car if my remote stopped working?

LOL same here