92 Camry Driver Door key problem

[Likuid]

Hey Everyone,
Ever since my car got stolen and I got it back, I notice my key does not really work on the driver side door. I stick it in but I can feel a lot of resistance when I turn it. It doesn't unlock at all. I have to walk to the passenger door to let myself in. Any tips for me to fix this? This is getting a little inconvinient. Btw the handles work fine it's just the key slot that's giving me problems. Thanks

[Mike Gerber]

First thing to do would be to try some graphite lubricant in the lock. It should be available at any auto parts store. If that doesn't work, you will have to take the panel off the door and inspect the entire locking mechanism.

Mike

[Likuid]

Thanks Mike! You're a lifesaver!!! Work like a charm

[Mike Gerber]

You're welcome. Glad I could help.

Mike

[360glitch]

Originally Posted by Likuid

Thanks Mike! You're a lifesaver!!! Work like a charm

I had the same issue with my '92. Used some graphite lubricant in it, it was smooth as silk.

[crist.kenny]

ive got this problem with my 95 camery right now. but putting the graphite in the lock didnt work. my door is locked, and i cant open it from the inside or outside. How can i get access to the door panel when im inside the car?

[djb2]

Like most automotive lock cylinders, the Toyota door locks are packed with wide-temperature-range waterproof grease at the factory. The working parts are hardened steel.*

The Toyota grease hardens with age and high temperature. Using lock de-icer (alcohol with some lubricant) will help re-distribute the grease. The long-term solution is to disassemble the lock, clean it in solvent (alcohol and manual cleaning will work) and use a better grease. You'll likely find the lock cylinder is pretty heavily grooved from a combination of key wear and lubrication failure.

(* Common padlocks use brass pieces, with a few percent lead, that helps lubricate the pins and lock cylinder. Using graphite is appropriate for these locks.)

[Mazeraski]

Both front doors and the trunk lock cylinders don't work for my Camry so I plan on rebuilding them soon. I was going to follow the instructions in the following thread:

Rebuilding / rekeying a Toyota lock cylinder


Also, to access the lock cylinder by taking the door panel off, you could use part of this DIY:

DIY: Interior Door Handle Replacement (GEN 3)

Hope that helps if you decide to go that route.