Nissan Repair: manual door locks, competent mechanic, lock cylinder

Question
The door lock on the drivers side does not unlock any more with the key. It was becoming increasing difficult and now it does not work

Answer
Hi B -

I am assuming that it can be unlocked from the inside (or locked), and when you insert the key into the lock, it goes all the way in.

The driver's side lock obviously gets a lot more use than the other side, so chances are you will have to replace your lock cylinder. But before you do that, try spraying some WD40 into the lock and try to turn the key back and forth several times. Do not force it, but you are trying to get the oil through the lock to free up the pins inside. If that does not work, replace the door lock cylinder. It is not an expensive repair (should be about $100 or less), but make sure you take it to a competent mechanic.

One thing to consider -
When the lock is replaced, you will have a different key just for that door. If you don't mind that, then all is good. Otherwise, you can purchase a "set" which includes all the doors, trunk, and ignition. Of course it is very expensive, but at least all will operate with one key.

Hope this helps!

calvin