Hi all,

A friend of mine has an octavia estate and the tailgate lock doesn't work with the key, it seems siezed. He's tried oil and WD40 but no luck. Are there any other things to try?

He only has the one key, is it worth replacing the lock(s) and getting a new set of locks and keys?

thanks

Martin

Does it lock normally using the key in the tailgate lock barrel? if so the motor in the tailgate could be duff,id remove the panel & have a look at the mechanism & check for power to the motor.

Gently wiggly might bring it back to life (if it is just a case that the barrel won't turn). I find that I have to exercise my locks on a regular basis with the key to ensure that they don't seize up.

Try opening the tailgate, and then squirting some fluid in, and letting it run in while the tailgate is open. PlugGas (or similar) may well be better than WD40.

A new set of locks and keys would be expensive, easier to try and get to the lock to work, and get another key cut and programmed.

This happens to most VAG rear locks, especially when the key rarelly used in the lock itself. The outer levers seize, normally they follow the pathway of the keys profile as you insrt it, tiny coil springs allow this, it only takes one lever to be slightly high and the lock wont open.

I'll try and post a pic tomorrow

hadnt used mine since owning the car (7 years from new) and had to get some wd40 in there with the tail gate open left it for a while and hey prestoe with a little but of gentle persuation it's free again

So is there an alternative route to a new key other than a visit to the dealer$?

Oh, one more question. He's got the usual driver's door locking problem; all doors unlock from the remote other than the driver's door, but locking/unlocking with the key does all doors. I've noticed that the lock LED doesn't light at all even when all the doors are locked. I know that this is not good, but can't remember the possible reason. Is it the lock micro switches? Is it connected to the driver's door not working from the remote?

Planning to do another Sunday session where we'll have the door card off and look at the two 12v supplies to the door module.