I am able to lock the car, but not unlock it on the driver's side with the key. Using the door lock switch from inside works both ways. The passenger side lock also works both ways. My battery has been disconnected since the car is getting stored for a year while I'm away.

My driver's side lock was replaced with a new one from Malloy Mazda about 8 months ago. It was working fine before I disconnected the battery and left the car for storage. Is my key unable to turn to the lock position because the central locking mechanism is unable to operate without battery, or has the lock seized (again)?

Thanks.

 

I just realised the topic is wrong. It should read, "Key doesn't UNlock car."

 

The locks should work independantly without power.
You have a mechanical problem with your driver's lock.
It has a mechanical arm going down from the cylinder to the bolt, and a switch on the cylinder. Pull the cylinder section out and check it out. To seize would require injection of some foreign material or your key does not perfectly match the tumbles.

Being new?????

I replaced my drivers side over 12 years ago when the stupid plastic water sheild broke off inside and prevented the key from being inserted. At that time I removed the affending item from the new left and old right locks. They have worked perfectly ever since.

 

Yeah, I pulled the cylinder section out the first time I replaced it about 8 months ago. I will do that again when I return in a year. Oh well. Haven't had much luck with my FD. Something breaks, even when it's not running. Lol.

Maybe something did break and fall into the unlock position. It won't turn past 12 o'clock position in the unlock direction.