I have a 1996 Subaru Legacy L Wagon, no anti-theft system, and power locks. So a few days ago I realized that my driver side door can be unlocked with anything. What I mean is, I can stick anything into the lock- a house key, mailbox key, screw driver, and the lock will unlock. More specifically though, the lock doesn't actually accept those items, tumblers inside reject the items and do not let them get inserted all the way. However, the lock just rotates freely. The wrong key need only be inserted about a quarter of a inch into the lock, and it will turn side to side, unlocking the car. This is a particular problem because the driver side door lock unlocks all of the other locks at once.

 

I assumed that this will require the lock cylinder to be replaced. I attempted to order a new cylinder from subarugenuineparts.com only to receive an email back that they cannot ship these items due to "security and theft" concerns.

 

Is there a way to repair the lock, or does the cylinder need replacing as I had suspected? If so, does anyone know of a place online to order a new one, or do I need to go to the dealer for it? Let me know, any thoughts are helpful. Thanks!

Edited June 24, 200916 yr by guy123

You know if it were me and the lock functions normally, other than opening with any key, I'd leave it alone. The chances of someone trying to use the lock for a break-in is unlikely. Most times the frameless window glass is pulled back enough to poke something in to hit the button or worse, a rock or like object gets passed through the same space that the glass is occupying at the time (although briefly).

 

You could try lubricating the lock in case the pins are stuck inside at the unlocked position.

a lockksmith may be able to re-pin/ re-key the cylinder. the hard part is getting it out of the door. not brain surgery, but still a bit of a challenge.

 

or buy a used matching door and ignition cylinders and replace both so one new key unlocks both.

 

or buy a used cylinder and pay a locksmith to re-key to match yours.

 

or don't tell any one it can be opened with a french fry. oops, too late.

I have the full monty; ignition cylinder and door locks in a 97 outback wagon. I can sell them to you if youd'd like. Let me know. I even have two keys to go with them.