I'm not sure if it was when I changed the original chassis battery that I noticed that I could no longer unlock the drivers door or open/close windows or sun roof with the key. When I try to insert it, it doesn't even go in all the way. I am wondering if the locking mechanism on the inside has gone bad. At least the key fobs still work to lock and unlock the vehicle. Any ideas or suggestions would be helpful. Many thanks.

 

Ewwww.... That happened to mine just before I got rid of it. The dealer told me that it would need a new lock cylinder. I didn't bother replacing it so I never did ask about the cost.

 

Happened to my daughter's 03. Get yourself down to Lowe's and pick up a bottle of liquid teflon - IIRC they sell it with and without a penetrating agent. I bought the one with penetrant. I employed a syringe without needle (One of my dogs is a druggie) using the tip to get past the little cover in the keyhole, and squirted it in there liberally. Let sit for some minutes then try your key. Once you can fully insert the key...pump it in and out (you know you want to!) a few times till she tenses up. Then try actuating the lock cyl. Worked fine on the 03, so I went round and soaked all the car and truck door locks with liq teflon...boot locks too!

5/15/13: went out to the shop to take a look: 4 oz bottle of Dupont Teflon Penetrant is what I used.

 

Powdered graphite may also do the trick. Its primary purpose is to lubricate and free up frozen locks....

 

Thanks for the help. I'll have to try it.