Q: Remote key not opening driver's door

asked by on January 25, 2016

My remote key does not open my driver's door. It opens the other three.

Door will not open Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

There are a couple possibilities. The lock actuator motor in the left front door could have gone bad. There could be a broken wire, the most common spot would be in the door jamb where the wires bend. A qualified mechanic from YourMechanic can come out and diagnose your door’s problem.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What does the Service Engine Soon Light mean?
The meaning of the "Service Engine Soon" Light is dependent on the make and model of your car and the manufacturer’s specifications. There are numerous dashboard indicator lights, and the particular indicator lights that are included on a dashboard are...
Intermittent chirping when driving with AC on
Hi. When the AC compressor is on, it puts a significant load on the belt, tensioner, pulleys and engine. The extra load on these parts could be the cause, or the internals of the compressor could be the source of...
Heater not working
There are several reasons for a heater not to work. This could definitely be a problem with the heater's core or a valve, as you mentioned. It could also be something related to a blown fuse, a bad water pump,...
Multiple trouble codes, no spark, no start.
You are getting codes to each and every major sensor on the engine that is needed to run your motor. You either have a major malfunction with the ECU or a problem with the harness not being wired correctly. You...
Battery/Alternator - 2008 Toyota RAV4
The battery and charging system should be evaluated first. However, if your battery is more than 5 years old, I would simply replace the battery (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-replacement) outright before doing further diagnostics (which are still needed). Batteries are actually critical components...
Car will not shift into fourth gear - 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300SE
Hello. I would check the condition of the transmission fluid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-fluid-service) first as well as the level. If the fluid is old or low then this will occur. If the fluid smells burnt or has debris in it then the...
Knocking noise - 2005 Scion xA
Hello. Assemblies such as power steering pumps can often be rebuilt or repaired, but the economics of it are usually only attractive to car enthusiasts or hobbyists. That is, IF there is something wrong with the pump, it is much...
why is my windows fogging up and i smell antifreeze
It has been my experience that this is normally a sign that a heater core has gone bad. It starts leaking coolant into the heater box, underneath the dash. When the heater is turned on, the air moving through the...
I blew a brake line last night, replaced line.bled brakes from master cylinder, brakes very squishy
Both improper bleeding and a failed master cylinder could be the fault. Running the master cylinder dry can lead it to fail quickly. The primary seal on the master cylinder piston will tear easily. Make another attempt to bleed the...

Related articles

What’s the Correct Lubricant to Use on Door Locks and Hinges?
Lubricate your door locks and hinges as part of regular car care and maintenance. Graphite powder and white lithium grease should be used differently.
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW 5-Series
BMW BMW has built a reputation for refined engineering, powerful performance and excellent fit and function. That’s exactly what you’ll find with the 2012 BMW 5-Series sedans. Composed and powerful, they provide a range of price points, features and capabilities...
How to Replace a Door Striker Plate
A door strike plate is a metal hook or bolt that keeps the door tightly shut. Once it's damaged or worn, the plate can jam or not hold as well.