jguerdat

My '01 suddenly has decided to not unlock using the keyless entry fob. If I push the unlock button, there's noise that sounds like unlocking but the handle is still locked. A second push doesn't help. Inserting the key allows me to finish unlocking. If I do NOT use the keyless entry, the key will not unlock the door - lots of resistance. I must use the fob button followed by the key in the mechanical lock. Locking the car is fine.

I'm guessing some binding in the lock levers, etc. in driver's door. Maybe water's gotten in there over the years and corroded something. Anyone want to hazard another guess?

xviper

If you still have warranty, get the dealer to fix this. It sounds like the rod that actuates the door lock is slipping in one direction and not the other.
If you have no warranty left, you'll need to take the inner door panel off, gain visual access to this rod assembly, use the remote and see what moves and trace the rod end attachment points to figure out why it's not going full travel.

jguerdat

Took the door panel off a few minutes ago to see what was up. The rods move easily but there seems to be binding at the latch itself. I couldn't see the lock assembly and trying to remove it seemed harder than I expected to get the screws out. the warranty's up so off to a repair shop I go. It seems harder than it should be to get to this but I'm at an age where I don't want to spend an afternoon mucking with it like I used to.

Think I'll try some graphite in the lock assembly to see if it leaks someplace useful first...