Changing The Barrel Lock In The Drivers Door

[TONEBONE]

I have never used the key to open my 53 plate 2004 Avensis T4 auto,only the key fobs.When I tried to I had no luck, so thought I would look into it.My Toyota garage said the barrel has disintegrated and I would need a new one £150 plus.Could you tell me if it is an easy job to do myself or whether it is a main dealer only repair.I have repaired various cars in the past. Any help would be gratefully appreciated.

[garethpaul]

If you have never used the lock, then I wonder if it is just seized up. Have you tried squirting some wd40 or similar into the barrel to see if it free's up? It's not the best lubricant for locks, but I guess you have nothing to lose.

Sorry, I can't advise on how easy it is to replace on the Avensis.

I have had to remove the handle and lock on mine when I had a problem with the door catch on my Corolla. It was fiddly, but pretty straight forward.

If the lock mechanisms are rod operated, then you have to be very careful as the plastic retaining clips can be brittle and break. Applying some heat with a hairdryer to the clips beforehand makes them less brittle and less likely to break.

A lot of newer cars now use cables instead of rods.

Can you swap the lock from the other door, and save yourself £150 - assuming that one works?