Driver Door Key will not unlock door

I have a 2012 Platinum Crewmax and the key will will turn both ways in the door handle, but will not activate the door lock. The actuator works since it locks and unlocks with the fob. I tried YouTube, but didn’t see anything about my problem. When the key is turned in the handle, is it an electrical switch that operates the lock or is it a mechanical type where there is a rod connected to the other side of the mechanism?

 

Likely you have a worn out key.

I had similar issues with a with my 07- though the problem was with the tailgate lock. I could lock, but couldn’t unlock it. My locksmith said he had seen many Toyota keys with this issue as they age. My locksmith was experienced enough to be able to create a new key by eyeing the old one. You could also get a new one made at the dealership with your VIN for more $$

 

I had the exact same thing. Turned out the shaft connected to the part that goes in to the actuator was not seated correctly. There is a video on YouTube about it. It’s a 10 minute fix and you really don’t need to take the door panel off. Just need a T30 socket

this isn’t the exact video I saw, but gives you and idea what I’m talking about. You may have to take a flathead screwdriver to align the part on the actuator so the key part lines up


https://youtube.com/shorts/YfkFUi5-EVw?feature=share