Q: Doors not unlocking when I use key fob

asked by on February 06, 2016

Three of the doors on my car do not unlock consistently when I hit the Lock button on the key fob.

Electrical components are not working Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi. I’m going to assume they open when using the door lock switch. First of all, pressing the fob once only unlocks the driver’s door. The fob must be pressed a second time within 5 seconds to unlock the rear doors. That is how the system is designed. So, you may just need to hit the button a second time. If this is being done properly but the doors still do not unlock, suspect a problem with door lock circuit. Looking at the wiring diagram for your vehicle, I see the passenger and rear doors use a relay that is separate from the driver’s door. My guess is that this relay is sticking, However, the problem could also be with the remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR) or body control module (BCM). When the RCDLR receives a signal from your key fob it requests that the BCM unlock the doors. A trained technician, such as one from YourMechanic, will be able to inspect the electrical components and repaired any failing parts.

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

Wheel bearings fail often, what is the problem?
This is a common problem on 2005 and 2006 models. Subaru released a technical service bulletin (TSB 03-58-08) for this specific problem. According to the TSB, the rear wheel bearings may develop a noise over time, but that it does...
How should my tires be rotated?
Tire rotation is an important maintenance step. It helps to ensure that all four tires wear evenly. It should be done at roughly every other oil change, although your frequency may vary. You also need to follow a specific pattern....
What should I know about the Power Steering system?
Like all other modern cars, your Fusion has a Power Steering system that assists with turning the steering wheel. However, depending on the engine in your car, you’ll have one of two possible systems. 2.5-Liter and 3.0 Liter Engines: If...
Windshield wipers getting stuck in random positions
Hi there. Even though you have replaced the wiper motor, there is an issue that most overlook. There is wiring that goes into the motor. If this wiring is corroded, this will cause your window motor to stop in random...
Using 10w-30 accidentally instead of 5w-30
Yes, it's just a little bit heavier (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/why-does-motor-oil-viscosity-matter), nothing much. You'll get slightly lower gas mileage, but that's the only thing. A lot of guys, as their engines get older, go and switch to 10-30w anyways, when they get older...
2001 Ford Focus Won't start
Hi there. The fuel pump (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-pump-replacement) is in the fuel tank. You will have a fuel test port on the engine fuel rail. You should have fuel pressure when you cycle the key to on for a few seconds and...
P2096 and P2196 Codes?
Code P2096 stands for Post Catalyst Fuel Trim too Lean Bank 1 and code P2196 stands for O2 Sensor Stuck Rich Bank 1 Sensor 1. My guess is that the upstream O2 sensor has failed causing a false rich condition....
Transmission does not shift properly
This may be a result of low transmission fluid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-fluid-service) or potentially a faulty transmission control module. A faulty transmission control module may cause a delay in acceleration or erratic shifting of gears. The transmission control module has various sensors...
My key is stuck in ignition starts but won't turn back into lock position to remove the key.
The problem is most likely caused by a bad shift cable end not getting it all the way to the park position to allow key to turn all the way off. Have this cable checked at the transmission shift lever...

Related articles

How Long Does a Headlight Door Motor Last?
Making Making sure that all of the systems on a car stay in good shape is not an easy job. There are a number of systems on a car that are built to ensure that you stay safe while on...
How to Clean Dirt On a Door Panel
When When cleaning the inside of your car, do not forget to clean the door panels, which helps give your car an extra sparkle. Cleaning a door panel is a multi-step process, including vacuuming up any dirt or debris, wiping...
What Does the Key Fob Battery Low Warning Light Mean?
The key fob battery low warning light lets you know when your key fob battery needs to be changed and replaced, so you can continue using the remote.