Automatic Lock Problems on Car

[atxbaby]

So my automatic lock is having this problem where when I hit unlock it is trying to unlock, but it's like there is something catching to where it won't release the lock. It doesn't have any problem locking, but when I try to unlock it, it tries to open but can't.

Usually after a few tries it will finally unlock, but today it wouldn't ever unlock and I had to go around and open the car door from the inside.

It's not that the locking mechanism is going out, because if it were, I would still be able to open the door with my key, but even the key is unable to open the lock, it simply won't turn.

Anyone know what might be causing this? And can anyone recommend a place in Austin to take my car to have this fixed?

Thanks in advance, and as always, hook'em.

 

[accuratehorn]

What kind of car?
This system is not as simple as you might think. There is the key fob, with a watch battery inside, and the battery could be getting weak. There is a control unit in the dash somewhere. Then there is the mechanism itself, and the mechanical pieces inside the door.
On Hondas, the part that usually goes bad is the "actuator," which is a small, low-power electric motor. This pushes the rod up that is connected to the button. Since it is low-power, it is difficult to tell if the part is getting weak, or if the rod inside the door just needs lubing or could be bent or something.
So you can replace the battery or try your spare key fob. Otherwise, you either have to decide to live with it, or take it in to remove the door panel and probably replace the actuator.
On later Hondas the actuator is an inexpensive part ($40). On some earlier models, the actuator comes with the door latch assembly, and costs $275 just for the part. So on your car it could turn out to be expensive to get this working.

 

[atxbaby]

Accurate, it is a 1999 Ford Explorer. I was talking to my brother about it and he thinks it is the actuator too.

If it was a low battery in the key fob, would it affect the physical key being able to open the door? Since the key is having problems turning in the lock, I feel like it has to be something inside the door.

Any suggestions of where to take it in Austin?

 

[accuratehorn]

Battery wouldn't have anything to do with the key having difficulty. Maybe on of the rods that connect the parts in the door is bent or sticky. Anyplace that regularly works on Fords should be able to figure it out. There is a place new me that seems like they know what they are doing if you in North Austin, called Austin's Choice, on IH-35 and Wells Branch Parkway.