My driver door won't unlock (97 Ranger)

[Sweersa]

I can't unlock my drivers side door from the outside with the key, the lock simply will not turn, the key works on the passenger side and in the ignition. It isn't a bad key becuase of that and I have tried my other spare keys.

When I lock my doors (like at school or work) to get inside i have to unlock the passenger side and reach over the open the driver's door from the inside, or just crawl over.

The driver's side was always a little tricky to open, I would have to twist the key in a funky way to unlock it, and now that doesn't even work it is just stuck.


Has anyone had a problem like this or would know of a possible solution? Thank you.

I would appreciate any help.

I almost forgot to add that is is very cold here right now, anywhere from -5 to 20 F. I am hoping it is just moisture that just froze on the inside of it.

 

[snake]

Try shooting some lube in there, could just be stuck... Might have gotten water in there and its frozen, try heating up the key with a lighter and work it in the lock.

If that doesn't do it, the lock assembly is either worn out or screwed up. You may be able to take it to a locksmith and he can rebuild it, or get one from a boneyard and have him re-key it to your current key. The lock assembly isn't too hard to remove or replace...

 

[martin]

that's what happened to the drivers side lock barrel on my 91. I tried lubing it but achieved nothing. The lock barrel is not difficult to remove. It's also not difficult to pull apart and repair but be warned there are lots of small parts inside. Oh! the problem with mine was a couple of rusted and broken springs.

 

[Milker]

yes i have a 89 f150 and it has then same problem. ihasnt worked in years, i think they make things that u put on it and it spray lube into it.

but i have power locks so i dont have to reach across the truck to open it

 

[Sweersa]

Thank you all for the tips and suggestions. I will try the easier ones first then work my way up if need be.

I appreciate all of your help.

 

[Dangeranger3]

It helps to occasionally lube the locks with graphite. It keeps it working smoothly.

 

[Sweersa]

Today it got really warm (50F) and my truck still didn't open. Then about 11 hours later after work sitting outside in the warm the lock worked perfectly! It must have just been frozen, I am very happy this ended so well and easy.

Thank you all so much for your support!

-Alex