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Posted on Apr 02, 2017
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Manual key won't unlock doors or trunk

The electric went out on my 2008 Camry (might be the battery - don't know yet) so I was going to use the manual key for the first time. It would NOT unlock the door or the trunk. Then I tried the "spare" manual key...same thing. It fits the lock and turns BUT the door/trunk won't open. Later in the day I tried again and was able to open the door but not the trunk. The spare key still won't open neither. Did the dealer give me the wrong key to the car??? I will be having my car towed tomorrow to see what the problem is with the electric or battery but if anyone knows anything about the key thing, can you please tell me? Is there a "trick" to using this key?

1 Answer

Jerry Greenberg

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  • Posted on Apr 02, 2017
Jerry Greenberg
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Joined: Apr 11, 2008
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If not the wrong key, maybe the locks are seized from not being used. Over time with humidity, and lubricants drying up inside of the mechanics of the locks they could seize. When inserting the key the pins are not properly moving in to place to allow the tumbler assembly to turn.

Try using some silicon lubrication. Spray in to the lock. Work the key in and out of the lock a few dozen times before attempting to turn. Then spray in some graphite lock lubricant. Insert the key in and out a number of times. Then tap on the key end with something hard like a pliers or something not to heavy or forceful. Then try turning the key. Jiggle it a bit and moving it in and out. Eventually the pins should normally release and position themselves.

If all of the above does not work, then you will need to get a lock smith to assist. Most likely he will be able to get in to the vehicle so he can remove the locks to service them.

5 Related Answers

Anonymous

  • 413 Answers
  • Posted on Dec 24, 2008

SOURCE: Change Batteries in my Remote door, (lock/unlock) and trunk opene

is the battery installed in the right orientation?

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Anonymous

  • 37 Answers
  • Posted on Mar 18, 2009

SOURCE: spare key

Well depending on if its an electronic key, or has an anti-theft module on it, you may be forced to purchase from the dealer.

On the other hand, you may just be able to go to a local locksmith and save some bucks! hope this helps!

Christopher Keene

  • 201 Answers
  • Posted on May 13, 2009

SOURCE: 98 camry door lock will not turn....

really sounds like the tumbler pins are stuck in the cylinder of the lock. mite want to spray some lubricant like(PB Blaster)or WD-40 in the cylinder key hole and push key in and out to see if tumblers will release..gd luck..chris

gdcroft

  • 192 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 03, 2009

SOURCE: 1999 Toyota Camry door lock and unlock issues

I believe this was done as a safety feature. It stops a potential car hyjacker from sneaking in the passenger door when you open the driver door. I know recent Hyundai models are set up such that if you turn the key in the driver's door once it only unlocks the driver's door. If you turn it twice in quick succession it unlocks all of the doors. Maybe the Camry is set up the same way.

Anonymous

  • 226 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 18, 2009

SOURCE: trunk leaks on 2000 toyota camry

your rearwindow seal is mabey the culpret.you can get them re sealed pretty cheap.(worked on my cavilier)

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