The central locking works with the key fob, but the key does not open the door - what’s wrong?
Let's call the client Denis. The car opened properly using the key fob. Therefore, the mechanical key was practically not used. One day Denis decided to…
The client's name has been changed.
Let's call the client Denis. The car opened properly using the key fob. Therefore, the mechanical key was practically not used. One day Denis decided to check it out and discovered: The key goes into the driver's door, but the mechanism barely turns.
First thought:
“If the central locking works, then the door lock is working.”
Not necessarily. In the source material, the mechanical part of the lock and the central locking system are considered as related, but different components: a situation is possible when the mechanics work, but the problem is in the electrics of the central locking - and vice versa.
Electronic and mechanical opening are not the same thing
When you press the key fob button, the command can go through:
- control unit;
- drive;
- door electrician.
When using a regular key, the mechanical part works. Therefore, one system is able to function when the other fails.
Why does this remain unnoticed for a long time?
A modern driver may not insert a metal key into the door at all for years. During this time, the mechanical cylinder is exposed to:
- moisture;
- dirt;
- temperatures;
- corrosion.
But there are no symptoms - simply because the mechanism is not used.
When the problem appears
Usually at the most inconvenient moment:
- the key fob battery is dead;
- car battery is dead;
- there was a problem with the central locking system.
And only then does it become clear that the backup mechanical access also does not work.
What to do
If the electronic opening works, the situation is not yet an emergency. This is a good time to calmly check the mechanical part.