VT door problem

[Mark_wazza]

So I've had this reasonably unique problem (I believe it is anyway) involving the door and boot locks since i bought the car. Basically I can't lock or unlock the car by putting the key in the door. Its not really a big deal seeing I can still use the key buttons but it might be problematic if i decide to sell the car. As the buttons on the keys work perfectly so i presume its not a deadlocking issue. A couple of the doors don't sit flush either so Im not sure if that has anything to do with it. I figure that going to a mechanic will cost me so i figured I'd try here first.

[accentstencil]

It is possible that someone changed the ignition barrel and key and now the key doesn't go with the door and boot locks.
If so, you can go to Holden with your VIN and they can supply you with the original key that should fit the boot and door and then you would need to get the key coded to the ignition cylinder.

[Mark_wazza]

Yeah i guess that's probably possibly. Any ideas why someone would change the ignition barrel? I don't really know much about ignition barrels. Also is it likely to cost me an arm and a leg going to Holden?

[cander24]

I agree with accentstencil above as this is the most likely reason in my opinion.
It is not uncommon for ignition barrels to fail with age/use and often rather than buying a new barrel and having it coded to the original key profile, people will take the cheaper option of buying a second hand barrel and key from another car of the same model and fitting it to theirs. This works fine, but as you've discovered has the disadvantage that you now have a different key profile for the ignition and doors, and are relying on the remote battery to open you doors.
I suppose you've 3 options...
1. Leave it as is and hope your keyhead (or car) battery doesn't decide to die at the worst possible time, leaving you stranded somewhere;
2. As suggested by accentstencil, go to Holden with your vin and proof of ownership to get a new keyblade cut and keep this on your keyring for such situations when you can't open it with the remote; or
3. As above, have a copy of the original key profile cut, but also buy a new ignition barrel and have it coded to the original key. A good locksmith with a range of 'spares' on hand should also be able to recode your existing barrel back to the original profile.

Personally, number 3 my preferred option as it takes everything back to standard as it should be and you won't have to worry about it.

Cheers

[tezza]

Or you can take the door lock out and take the door lock along with your key to a locksmith who will code it to the key.

That's probably the cheapest way out of it.

[Mark_wazza]

Hmm okay. I think ill go to Holden and see how much they'll want for it (which Im guessing will be quite a bit).

Thanks for your help everyone.

[NV-MY-VT]

Also, maybe compare Holden's prices with an auto-elect/locksmith.

May be cheaper and a better job even.