I've had an issue with the drivers door lock since I bought my '01 XJ8. Fob works locks with no problem, but key will not turn in lock. Had the door opened up today to replace the keeper and while I was in there I started checking out the linkage. Key appears to be trying to move the cylinder as I can see the disk on the back of it jiggling when I try the key. I also noticed that there's also a White Plastic pin that sticks out the side of the latch housing (actuater?) that is jiggling and could easily be at the end of the linkage where it connects to the latch. Hard to see if the pin retracts when the door is closed, but does any one know if this is part of some kind of anti-lock mechanism in the latch to prevent accidental locking? I tried to push it with the tip of a screwdriver and it won't budge. I jiggled the linkage from the cylinder by hand and saw the pin wiggle so I'm convinced it's attached to it some how. I'm thinking it may have broken inside the housing and jammed in turn preventing linkage travel. I can lock and unlock the doors with the fob and it doesn't appear to do anything with the cylinder linkage. I've got fobs to lock and unlock but the key issue just irritates me so I'd like to fix it. Any ideas are appreciated.

 

your latch problem is caused by remotitis. most people always use the remote and never use the key like in the OLDEN DAYS. so the locks seize and dont work. spray liberally with pentrant oil and keep working it to loosen the tumblers

 

Sweet .

I use my key every once a while.
I love to see all door windows / sliding roof close or open at the same time ... the kid in me ...

 

you can do the same by holding the lock/unlock button on the dash. well you can on UK version.