Door lock issue

[elav]

I have a '98 Boxster and have replaced the door latch mechanisms and ignition assembly in my car roughly 1 year ago. Everything has been working as expected during this time up until last Sunday. The key works in the ignition and I can unlock the car using the key in the door, but I can no longer lock the car by inserting the key in the door lock. I don't have a working fob but I can lock and unlock the car using the button in the dash. I can also lock the car using the button in the dash and unlock the car using the key in the door - but I can't lock the car using the key in the door.

When I attempt to lock the car using the door lock, the key simply won't turn clockwise. It feels like it is hitting something. I have...

• Cleaned the grooves in the key
• Put some graphite in the door lock
• Opened the door panel to see if there is something physically preventing the lock from spinning - didn't see anything

Windows move as expected when you open/close doors, etc. Anyone run into this? Or have any recommendations? As much fun as it was installing the door latch mechanism, I would prefer not to do that again if I don't have to. Is there a position in the door latch mechanism that can prevent the key from moving in the lock position (clockwise motion)?

[Stl-986]

clockwise is lock

[elav]

Yes, I'm trying to lock the car by turning the key in the door clockwise - but it won't turn clockwise from the neutral position. It turns out there is a broken piece in the lock assembly.



I found this old thread that covers the issue: How to Fix Broken Lock Cylinder for 20 Dollars

[Starter986]

Originally Posted by Stl-986

clockwise is lock

Brilliant.

[Stl-986]

Originally Posted by elav

Is there a position in the door latch mechanism that can prevent the key from moving in the unlock position (clockwise motion)?

Had to say it...after all he did say moving in the unlock position. lol

These are known to break. I would just get one from someone parting one out or ebay and not go through the process of replacing the parts.

[elav]

Thanks, fixed the typo. I have ordered a VW part that visually looks close. Ordered via Amazon and will be delivered today - so we will see.

Originally Posted by Stl-986

Had to say it...after all he did say moving in the unlock position. lol

These are known to break. I would just get one from someone parting one out or ebay and not go through the process of replacing the parts.

[elav]

Stl-986, you are right - with door handle assemblies at $30 to $40 on eBay, buying a used handle assembly is the way to go. I only dug into this on Saturday and was able to order the VW part Saturday afternoon for $6 from Amazon and have it delivered Sunday. It showed up at 2PM and I was able to rebuild the lock assembly and get it back in the car. So now the car locks once again. Funny thing is, my son knew the car couldn't be locked but it didn't stop him from taking it to High School or using it around town.

BTW, the VW part has an extra tab sticking off the front, but it still works. Here is the new VW part on the left and the original broken part on the right.