1st gen door lock issue

Dad has an 03, SR5 4WD 5-speed. Evidently his key won't unlock the driver side door but It will unlock the passenger side door.

Could this be an electrical issue or a mechanical issue? His key fob battery is dead so that's out of the question at the moment. But is there anything he should be looking for? Any info helps.

 

Has the key ever been able to unlock the driver side? If not, could be a mismatched tumbler.

if it’s worked previously for you, but now the key doesn’t turn at all, a likely culprit would be that a pin is jammed inside the keyhole and not releasing. Sometimes that can be remedied with graphite lube for locking mechanisms. (Might have to wiggle key around for a while to get graphite worked in).

lastly, if the lock turns but the door isn’t unlocking, there’s probably a linkage issue. If this is the case, pull the interior door panel and check for disconnected linkages or interference. Still not seeing what’s wrong at this stage? Post some pics, there’s a good chance either myself or another member can help visually identify the issue.

 

This is the only photo he sent me. I told him I need to see behind the plastic. His neighbor believes he needs a a new locking assembly. Is that basically where the key inserts into?

 

Okay, I guess he has a bad actuator. Problem solved.

 

When I bought my first gen ('95 no fob, no electrical anything) the owner handed me 3 sets of keys. They are also fickle. Some won't open the gas cap, some will. So far the big keys open all the doors, but I haven't used the 3rd set since I bought it.

 

Nice, glad he was able to figure it out!

 

I hope it solves the problem! unless your using actuator in the wrong fashion.

The mechanical linkage should always unlock the door.

 

Thank you @Bivouac @Lil Puke @Gen1TacoLady for the responses. He's going to order an aftermarket one and have his neighbor help him install it. I'll update this thread once he does and let you know of any further updates. I wish I were there to help him.