Please help - car is running - doors won't unlock

Perhaps I am not getting this. It said in one post that the remote was used to lock the car, then the key was used to try to unlock. Someone said that was how it was supposed to work if it was locked from the inside. Not on mine...... He said he locked it with the remote not from inside, if you read the post. So it should work perfectly. Also I have locked it from the inside and used the remote to unlock, it works. Don't know about using the key to lock or unlock. Never had to use the key for anything except to hold the fob on the keyring, but it sounds like something is not working correctly. It is under warranty still so take it to the dealer and let them figure it out if it keeps happening.

 

I agree, I just tried mine, no handle lifting is necessary to unlock the door. It sounds like the linkage rods for the door handle and the lock are interfering with each other. Many vehicles have little plastic clips with slide channels to keep the two seperated. Perhaps one of the rods has popped out or is bent a little.

I think it would be possible to install a lock on the right, RH drive have it over there. You might have to pick up these particular parts, if the mechanism is not asymmetrical.

 

Note that in that condition someone could break into the car and drive away with it. It will not shut itself down. Of course after they shut it down they won't be able start it again, but if their only intention is to joyride or get it to a chop shop they won't care.

 

Sure, I will give it a try. It's not something I do on a routine basis. I recall having to pull on the handle while turning the key to open the door. I also recall the key turn being very stiff before pulling on the handle. I wonder if it gets straighted out after the first actuation?

Tom

 

Okay, I gave it a try today. Our temperature is warm, about 25°F, so extreme weather isn't a factor. Here is what I found:

1) The mechanical key has two functions: A) Mechanically lock and unlock the driver's door, and B) Electrically lock and unlock the other doors. Obviously the electrical part only works if you have 12V power.

2) The mechanical key rotates the lock without the operator pulling on the handle. In the case of my Prius, it turns easily for a very short distance, and then starts to engage the mechanical lock. At this point it becomes much harder to turn. Applying more force with my fingers is sufficient to overcome the increased resistance and open the lock. It was not necessary to use pliers, but it did take a fair amount of force.

3) Locking with the mechanical key was much easier.

4) Unlocking with the mechanical key simply unlocks the driver's door. You then need to pull on the handle to unlatch the door.

This differs a bit from my previous experience. Lacking any other explanation, I'm going to guess that the mechanical lock linkage is fairly stiff upon initial operation and may loosen with use.

Tom