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My 2001 Toyota Camry wouldn't unlock this evening. If I turned the key to the "lock" position, it seems to lock OK, but it won't turn at all in the other direction.

I managed to break in to the car, but then after a short drive home the doors spontaneously locked. Any time I tried to unlock them by hand, they would lock again immediately.

It felt somewhat like my car was trying to trap me inside. Does this sound like a Central Locking issue? Electrics? Security System? I'm stumped.

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I take it this is new behavior to you? Or is the car new to you and your are just now experiencing this? –  Paulster2 Jan 14 at 11:25
If it was a 1958 Plymouth Fury you would have bigger problems. –  Larry Jan 16 at 0:37

1 Answer 1

up vote 2 down vote accepted

It sounds like the lock on your driver's door is stuck (leading to the first symptom), which has led to it constantly sending the "lock" signal to the central locking, causing the second symptom.

If you can get the door open, you should be able to disconnect the central locking wiring from the lock to stop it locking the other doors, then investigate why it is sticking - it might be as simple as one of the control rods working loose. You'll have to remove the inside door trim to get to it, which is usually held on with several small screws and a set of clips around the edge.

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That sounds like a likely cause. Will take a look! Thanks :-) –  Alex Jan 15 at 2:13
You were spot on. Thanks for your help –  Alex Jan 20 at 5:07
Good to hear, glad you fixed it! –  Nick C Jan 20 at 10:34

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