Toyota highlander door wont unlock with key Table of Contents Dead Battery Out of Range Water Damage Reprogramming Required Key Fob Can a dead battery be used to unlock my car? I’m here. A dead battery is the most common reason a Toyota Highlander’s key fob fails. When I try the same on any of the other four doors (passenger front, both sliding and trunk), they unlock as expected and the van responds with with unlock feedback (beep and flashing lights. Alarm (if equipped) Locking the doors will set the alarm system. Replacing faulty lock cylinders Apr 19, 2023 · Yes - I can use the metal key in the key slot to open either the driver door or all doors (with the second turn). This issue is driving me mad! Thank you in advance! :) Problem: Front driver side door lock and front passenger side door lock will not lock or unlock using the key fob or front door lock switches & the rear driver side door lock works Toyota Mechanic: AutoExpert20 It appears that the door lock actuator in the driver's side door of your 2022 Toyota Highlander might be malfunctioning. The doors will unlock fine, but only the rear hatch will lock. com Feb 20, 2025 · Here are some frequently asked questions about Toyota Highlander locking problems: Q: My Toyota Highlander’s doors won’t lock with the key fob, but they lock manually. Followed by water damage or fob failure. Oct 4, 2016 · I have a 2011 Highlander Hybrid limited that drives like a dream, but lately has been giving my wife problems related to the power door locks; I've searched high and low for similar symptoms in all forums and threads, and the closest thing I've found was this one: Doors Won't unlock with Key Fob. Jun 20, 2023 · I have to physically press the unlock button once which unlocks the driver door and the van beeps twice. How to unlock a Toyota with a dead battery Push the key release on the back of the key fob, and remove and remove the emergency key. Common May 28, 2025 · The Toyota Highlander is a popular choice for families and adventurers alike, offering spacious seating, ample cargo space, and a reputation for reliability. HOW TO UNLOCK A TOYOTA HIGHLANDER - KEYS LOCKED INSIDE Roadside Guy 29. The owners complaint is that both front doors will not lock or unlock when using both the key fob and the lock switch on the door Oct 18, 2020 · Hi, I have a problem with my highlander 2010 door locks. They do however lock with the keypad or Talk to a Live Mechanic NOW - 24/7: https://justanswer. Jun 10, 2017 · My wife somehow did something to the door :p and now the only way to lock or unlock it is climbing in through passenger side. May 27, 2025 · If yes, the door actuator in your Highlander's driver door lock might be defective. Feb 4, 2023 · Since the fob died a while back, I've been using the key and inside door-lock switch to open and close the doors. Key fob as well as interior switch will unlock all doors but there is no way to lock them unless you manually lock each door by hand. Try manually unlocking the driver’s door with the key; if it resists, lubricate the lock cylinder. When defective, the power door actuator won't respond to commands from the door switch or the key fob to lock the door. Toyota Highlander A video tutorial on how to unlock a 2014 - 2019 Toyota Highlander with a remote key fob that is broken or has a dead battery. A malfunctioning key fob can leave you stranded, especially when you’re in a hurry. 9pctbx. The only way to unlock them is to manually flick the switch that is on that particular door above the door handle. In today's video we have a 2013 Toyota Highlander with a V6 3. The rear, and passenger doors will not unlock with the key pad or the lock/unlock push button on driver side door. Program FOB3. The back door will be locked when it is fully closed. They can lock but not unlock; occasionally, they will unlock and then randomly stop. Oct 16, 2022 · This procedure shows how to open a Toyota door when the key fob does not unlock the doors, which can happen if the car or key fob battery is dead. It Jul 1, 2013 · Hello, I've had this strange issue where sometimes my power locks will lock, but not unlock. The troubleshooting steps will depend on whether one or both handles are functioning. Jun 24, 2023 · The physical key cylinder on the driver's door turns right to unlock and left to lock. Fear Dec 5, 2024 · Possible Reasons for Toyota Not Unlocking There could be several reasons why your Toyota is not unlocking. net/194ZL9 In this tutorial I show you a simple WD-40 solution to your door not unlocking or locking problem. Any idea what the issue might be? Mar 24, 2025 · Emergency Start Procedure: Get Moving Now How to Start Your Toyota When Key Isn’t Detected Even when your Toyota displays the dreaded “Key Not Detected” warning, you can still start your vehicle using this emergency procedure: Locate your key fob (even if it seems dead) Hold the Toyota logo side of the key fob directly against the start May 27, 2017 · Just got back from the dealership after getting the timing belt, water pump and other belts replaced. In the following situations, the smart key system may take some time to unlock the doors. It works on passenger door and ignition and key fob locks and unlocks both doors. What's the problem and how do I fix it? I have some ideas but I want to hear it here first. 5l. If the smart key system or the wireless remote control does not operate properly Vehicles with a smart key system: use the mechanical key to lock and unlock the doors. Customer: The manual key will turn in the door, but it isn't unlocking. This process synchronizes the key fob’s unique identification code with the car’s security system. The cylinder can be frozen solid with the electronic fob unlocking just fine. I used fob to unlock doors - the cars light did flicker when pressing unlock and all doors unlocked except for drivers door (so I unlocked from inside). So I pushed the unlock button on the driver's door panel and same thing - doors still locked. If you’re facing a situation where your Highlander’s rear door won’t open, it can be a frustrating experience. Feb 8, 2022 · Hi everyone! I'm hoping someone in here can help. Turn the engine switch off. In the event of a power outage during an accident, this keeps the doors from opening. Has anyone else had this problem? The passenger side works. I tried lubricating the locks by spraying silicone lube on the key and working it in the locks, but still Aug 29, 2011 · I have 2010 Toyota Venza. Repeat these steps until you get to the desired mode. Now the key will no longer unlock the passenger-side door nor the hatchback. The following instructions will work for most Toyota vehicles: Turn the POWER switch off. May 12, 2025 · Reprogramming a Toyota key fob usually requires a specific sequence of steps involving turning the ignition on and off, opening and closing the driver’s side door, and pressing buttons on the key fob. Question: I have been experiencing some very odd 'power door-lock malfunctions' for about the last month. Check door lock actuators and wiring for electrical faults if key fob works but manual key doesn’t. olathetoyota. Using graphite powder on the key or door ease wax helped a lot. When using the key like this or the lock buttons inside the car all doors lock and unlock fine. And I hadn't used a key in 7 years. Both directions spin to a full stop after 45 degrees of turning without engaging or disengaging any physical lock mechanisms. We recommend visiting a Toyota Dealer, as forcing the key too hard may cause it to break in the lock cylinder. Replace the key battery with a new one if it is depleted. It's frustrating, especially when you're juggling groceries or trying to load Feb 15, 2017 · Hi all - been a while since I have been here. Here are some potential causes based on the search results: 1. These components include the door handle, door latch, door lock, and power window motor (if equipped). 8K subscribers Subscribe Dec 16, 2013 · I recently bought a 2007 Corolla S and was only supplied one key with it, no fob or anything. I pushed the unlock button twice (or three times) on my key fob (LE Plus) and the driver's door unlocked but none of the other doors unlocked. Electrical Issue: – If the unlock/lock button on your remote isn’t working, it could be a sign of a larger electrical issue. All door locks also work from the manual lock/unlock rocker switch on the driver's door. The car will sense the key as you get close to the door. By means of a series of gears, the actuator locks or opens the door or doors whenever you give the instruction. Put a battery charger on the starter cord and on the frame far from the starter if the doors won’t open because the Apr 28, 2025 · Toyota Models and Anti-Theft System Variations While the reset procedures above work for most Toyota vehicles, some models have specific variations: Camry (2002-2006) These models often respond well to the key cycling method and rarely require OBD-II intervention. I told them to check out my remote locking as it works with the key and the door button but not the key fob. For electronic issues, a scan tool can detect faults in the Apr 18, 2013 · Key won’t fully insert and lock or unlock driver side door. The key works fine in the drivers door, turn once to unlock drivers door, turn twice to unlock all doors. Driver's door will lock electronically but not Smart keys are super convenient for easy access into your Toyota, but what happens when the battery dies? Adam shows you how to unlock your car and how to start it using the key fob key! North Jul 10, 2022 · The remote keyless system in Toyota Highlander allows the driver to conveniently lock and unlock the vehicle with the press of a button. The key is worn. New battery for FOB2. This has happened once before when it was cold, and the issue resolved itself. May 11, 2025 · Is your Toyota key fob refusing to unlock your car door? It’s a frustrating situation that many Toyota owners have experienced. Your Toyota Highlander's rear hatch sits stubbornly closed (or worse, partially open). RAV4 (2007-2014) These vehicles may require holding the key in the door unlock position for up to 2 minutes during key cycling Apr 13, 2025 · You turn the key, press the button on your fob, and nothing. It doesn't have to be in your hand. Vehicle Receiver Malfunction If you’ve tried a new battery and your key fob still won’t work, your Highlander’s receiver module might be the culprit. When my aftermarket alarm/unlock fob failed I had to manually use my key. If the key won’t unlock doors or hatch, inspect the lock cylinders for corrosion or mechanical wear. They tell me its the door actuators and its about $1000 for both front doors to get How to fix the common causes of remote lock and unlock not working. Not even putting key in door works. all doors lock or unlock electronically except the driver's door. I dont think the problem is an actuator since it occurs on all doors. This comprehensive guide explores the common reasons why your Toyota key fob might fail and provides detailed troubleshooting steps and solutions to get you back on the road. This might indicate a bad relay or a larger electrical issue affecting the power door locks. Possible Reasons it may be difficult to unlock the door: The lock may need to be lubricated. This is on a 2018 Highlander XLE. So I reached inside and pulled the release lever on the passenger door - no unlock! Sep 2, 2025 · Ever been running late, only to find your Toyota won't recognize your key? That dreaded "Smart Key System Malfunction" message can stop you in your tracks. Battery is new. (2 M) of the outside The doors unlock just fine from the Engine-Off position. Any suggestions Mar 25, 2021 · Using the mechanical key in the drivers door, it rotates after being inserted but does absolutely nothing to open my 2016 Highlander Limited driver door May 7, 2020 · The key fob works, the key starts the vehicle, the remote starter (Viper) works still, and the remote starter fob also still unlocks properly, and the door switches work properly to lock and unlock. On the Smart Key remote, simultaneously press the red alarm button and the lock button for about 5 seconds until you hear it beep. Do you have any suggestions on how to open the car? Is there a way to unlock a Highlander from the back with the key? Feb 28, 2022 · To me, being the mechanical key that's not able to lock/unlock the door means to check the Front Door Lock Open "Rod" (mechanical portion) for properly positioned and connected from the key cylinder down to the lock assembly (assuming your key can turn when inserted into the lock cylinder). A new key may be purchased from a Toyota Dealer. This will only apply to Toyota H. Faulty mechanisms, damaged components, or normal wear and tear can all contribute to a door that Aug 5, 2022 · The driver side door lock/unlock sensor doesn’t work. Also I can't unlock the Sep 25, 2018 · Why your Toyota key won’t turn in the ignition and how to fix it? Ammaar's Toyota Vacaville in Vacaville, CA, explains! Read on to learn more. Whenever I press the unlock button twice or the driver/passenger's side lock/unlock button, it only Customer: Hi, the three doors on my 2011 Toyota Highlander won’t unlock—the passenger door and two rear doors. Troubleshooting a key fob doesn’t always require a visit to the dealership—many issues can be resolved easily at home. The most common cause of key fob not locking or unlocking the doors in Toyota Highlander is dead coin battery inside the key fob. The same thing is occurring now. Mar 12, 2021 · I have a 2012 Toyota highlander with doors that will only lock manually. However, when it malfunctions, it can be frustrating and disruptive to your routine. See full list on parts. New FOB4. We Jun 27, 2025 · 5. Mar 13, 2025 · A Toyota key fob is a convenient device that allows you to unlock, lock, and even start your vehicle remotely. The only thing that fixes this 100% of the time is to turn the ignition over so that the battery is feeding power to it. Following are some of the symptoms of what is going on: Opening the door using the passive handle operation - When I open the 'driver's Jul 25, 2016 · Key fob or inside electric button. The door latches might have become locked by the vehicle. The door lock actuator is a compact electric motor responsible for operating the lock mechanism within the 2013 Highlander Limited Anyone had the issue where your FOB works to start the car (push to start must detect key) but the doors wont respond to the lock/unlock buttons on the fob? I have a 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited 4wd-i. The only way to lock the four doors is manually. But the remote control can also stop working due to worn buttons, poor battery contact, water damage, receiver module issues, signal interference, dead 12 volt battery, unpaired key requiring reprogramming, or Switching the door unlock function (vehicles with a smart key system) It is possible to set which doors the entry function unlocks using the wireless remote control. Replace lock/unlock receiver2032 battery Jul 20, 2022 · A relay signal is sent to the actuator by the power door lock when you press a lock or unlock button (found on your Toyota key or inside your car). However, sometimes the problem might emanate from the wire connections leading to the actuator. This issue is frequently encountered in various Toyota models, including the Highlander. Inspect the mechanical key for damage. Use a lubricant that is specifically made for locks. However, like any vehicle, the Highlander can experience occasional glitches, including issues with the rear door. As you can see in the picture, I have it set to unlock by the Divers Door. When the key fob stops working, it quickly becomes an inconvenience to manually lock and unlock the vehicle. Jan 17, 2024 · I used fob to lock doors - the cars light didn't flicker when pressing Lock, but all doors locked except for drivers door (so I locked it with key). In some cases it can even leave you stranded if the vehicle can’t detect the key and won’t let you start the engine. Signs of a receiver problem: Multiple key fobs don’t work with your vehicle Key fob works perfectly with other Toyota vehicles Recent electrical system issues or battery problems Feb 9, 2021 · For those with 2012 Highlander (others without key fab), I found out that if you insert the regular ignition key on the door and turn right (as you unlock) it will stop at a position initially and the door won't open. The car runs good driving it but one thing that irks me is that every-time I unlock the car with the keys from the exterior. I have a basic fob with lock/unlock/panic and separate metal key that has no buttons (but presumably has an immobilizer chip). If your 2012 Highlander won’t unlock with the key fob or physical key, first check the key fob battery and replace if needed. This guide will walk you through how to troubleshoot a toyota key fob. But when the engine is on they will not unlock unless I hit the unlock button on the driver or passenger front door. Jun 15, 2016 · The security system won't stop the manual unlock. The electronic key has been left in an area of approximately 6 ft. When the indicator light on the key surface is not on, press and hold , Or for approximately 5 seconds while pressing and holding . You can tell when that happens, especiall Apr 13, 2017 · Had a weird experience today. Lubricate locks with graphite powder instead of WD-40 for long-term smooth operation. Battery-saving function The battery-saving function will be activated in order to prevent the electronic key battery and the vehicle battery from being discharged while the vehicle is not in operation for a long time. The driver door always remains locked until I manually unlock it which I suspect it is a wear and tear or when I lock the car, the driver door always remains unlocked until I lock the driver door after it’s parked To unlock the doors using the available Smart Key, you have to have it with you; in your pocket, bag, or purse. 1. The lock mechanism may be malfunctioning. Below, we’ve listed everything you need to do to get your vehicle’s fob working again. Ever found yourself stranded because your Toyota Smart Key's battery died? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this video, we'll show you step-by-step how to unlock and start your Toyota even Mar 6, 2023 · If your Toyota Highlander’s key fob is not working, the most common reason is a dead battery. I assume this means when I unlock or open the drivers door. The remote and the power door lock switches on the doors are behaving the same, they can unlock but won’t lock. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Nov 2, 2018 · We have a 2012 Highlander (Hybrid) and it’s got the exact same symptoms, right down to every little detail. I can't unlock the front passenger and hatch locks with the manual key on my 2005 highlander. WD-40 can temporarily loosen stuck locks but won’t fix internal damage. 2 Mar 14, 2024 · The Toyota Highlander ‘s rear door system consists of several components working together to provide access to the vehicle’s cargo area. Aug 31, 2023 · In this guide, we will explore potential causes and solutions for a Toyota Highlander door that refuses to open, whether from the inside, outside, or both. Even though this occurs, the doors should still open with the mechanical key. Unlock the doors using the Smart Key remote and open one of the doors. If both are fine, the door lock actuator or wiring may be faulty. alobe eprmev epw ftcue bahmvx fnsirl lrlgi anoew tdfy olxi llx nxpqqsz qwbjuov pdwvxs bce