Key Doesn't Unlock Door

[brian42]

I just bought a 2003 7.3L. I thought I was thorough but I was wrong. I never tried the key in the driver's door. The key won't unlock the door. I don't know if the lock is broken or just gummed up from never being used. Is there a good way to clean a lock or do I bite the bullet and take it to a shop?

thanks for any help.

[bigcountrysg]

I would try the key on the passenger side door.

As for cleaning and lubricating a lock. I prefer to use WD40 for a task like this. There is a special product on the market for locks cleaning and lubricating them. However wd40 has a billion uses and this just happens to be one of them it is good at.

[brian42]

The key works fine in the passenger door and ignition.

[bigcountrysg]

Originally Posted by brian42

The key works fine in the passenger door and ignition.

Then I suggest you remove the door panel and take a look at the lock assembley.

[lilredpowerstroke]

My 99 does the same thing but it is the pass. door that doesnt want to unlock. I can usually get it to open after playing with it such as turning it and pulling the key out and pushing it in till the lock finally opens. I think the tumblers in the lock and ignition are worn out together and the pass side is like brand new( just some uneducated guesses).

[johnroach100]

When I bought my 96 the key didn't work but with lots of wd40 and time it works great now. The owner didn't lock the door for years so it just gummed up.