EC3

Hello, so I got this 2003 Civic Si recently and it has an issue unlocking the driver's door with the key. The key goes in fine but it won't turn left or right as if something was jammed. I'm guessing it's a valet key since its gray (it's the only one the guy had), maybe that's the issue. Every time I want to get in the car I need to open the passengers door, reach over and unlock my door. Its getting really annoying. Any suggestions as to what it might be will be greatly appreciated. Thanks !

MassCivic

Either valet key or the lock cylinder needs to be cleaned or re pinned.

ezone

needs the lock cylinder rebuilt with new tumblers

emich

It is a valet key. It is thicker than the other keys. when I'll get home I'll let you know the specs. you can use a file and get it to the other keys thickness.

ezone

Valet key is not the cause of this problem.
A valet key will always work the doors and ignition.

emich

Correct ezone. It should work. However the valet key is 0.5 mm thicker than the regular key.


Make a duplicate key for a $1 in home depot and see if this helps before doing anything else.

ezone

You're looking at regular keys and the OPs car uses sidewinder keys. I doubt the $1 key replacement is gonna be possible.

And FWIW the black key in your pic appears to be slightly bent.

emich

You are right it is bent I didn't notice.

Roses

Hi,

I’m experiencing the same issue. My black key won’t unlock the door any longer so I got the gray key which only opens the trunk so I can’t lock my car doors. I was trying to follow the post but I’m not sure I quite understand what to do to fix it. Just had all my stuff stolen out of my trunk (cuz I’m :-( a Blondie) and I just want to figure this out.

Is this a key issue or a door lock issue?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Rosie

Bobo6

Hey bro im having the same problem except its all my keys that arent letting me open the driver side dooe. Its electronic so im sure it has to do with either the wiring or the motor for the lock becuase if theres no electricity getting to the lock you cant do anything to it manually either. Im trying to figure out what it is but there was also a mice problem in my car so theres no tellong ive just been lazy as **** to find out. Im going to check it out this weekend ill let you know whatsup. And dont make a duplicate our keys have a chip in them so unless you get a programmable key it isnt worth ****

BrotatoChip

Well that's just not true. How would you ever get into a car with a dead battery?

Bobo6

well i know with this car if you tried the driver side you would not get in id put money on that. For example i can lock and unlock my door from the inside with my hand but if the door is open i cant put it up or down. Woth the key i have to open it from the passenger side. With the piwer switch it doesnt do **** to the drivers side door. It doesnt make sense i understand but the situatiin is real lol. If you know how to remedy this please let us know because i dont know what to do im trying to figure it out through trial and error

Colin42

With the door open you need to hold the handle open to operate the locks. Standard Honda thing.

Bobo6

its not working bro

Colin42

This is basic stuff, go pay someone if you can't figure it out

ezone

theres no electricity involved.
Lock cylinder. Retumble or replace.

You would be amazed at how many users simply cannot ____. Some actually get trapped inside a car.
Read the owners manual. It's full of handy information like this.