Tailgate lock

Recently discovered my key no longer unlocks the tailgate (or door handle) when inserted manually. Lock/unlock button still works. Has anyone done a lock core replacement?

 

If you know it has in fact worked in the past, try spraying lubricant in the locks. Also I've had a hardware store cut key work in the ignition but not the locks.

 

I had a weird similar situation.

I have two keys.

Both work in the ignition

Only one works in the tailgate.

In for lock replacement or other fix

 

Sometimes lube is the best or most simple solution. Thanks!

 

Did you lube it and it solved the problem? Graphite? Or what did you use

 

How worn down is the key you're using? Do you have a second key? How often do you unlock/lock the tailgate?

Your key might be worn down from the door and ignition and too worn down for the tumbler in the tailgate lock.

 

The key that doesn't open the tailgate also shouldn't open the glove box. It's a valet key. I have both for mine as well.

 

neither of mine work either. never have since i bought it used. idk why...

 

The key I’m using is stock and is pretty worn down (spare is worn as well) I disassembled the tailgate lock to get to the tumbler. It was able to open all of those little teeth except one. I unlocked the tailgate manually with the locking mechanism and put everything back together but have the problem still.
Wondering if I need to get a new set of keys and lock core.

 

Really? I was just using the main key. Where did you find this?

 

I haven’t but might try it!

 

The lock cylinder probably does not need replacement. I believe Toyota has designed the key to wear rather than the tumblers. I had a worn original key for my 86 4Runner that could be removed with ignition in the "On" position...engine would just keep running like back in the forties. I never needed to replace the ignition switch or the lock cylinder, just had a new key made.

Verify that you are not trying to unlock the tail gate with a "valet" key. @mtndude23 says valet keys exist. If you're using the main owner key, first try lubrication...I have found WD-40 works better than graphite with no ill effects. If that doesn't work, try having a new key cut to insure the main key is not worn to the point that the tumblers in the tailgate lock are not being properly actuated.

If the above doesn't work, then previous owners often have to replace ignition switches. There is typically no effort to make the new ignition key work in the doors, tail gate, etc. Those owners live with the inconvenience of having an ignition key and an all-other-locks key.

 

It's in the tundra owner's manual. When I first brought my truck, I was using the valet key. It wasn't until I tried locking the tailgate that I noticed the keys were cut different.