# Key Fob Unlocks But Won't Lock Car Doors 1996 Ford L9513 > ClearTheCode — Key Fob Unlocks But Won't Lock Car Doors on your 1996 Ford L9513? Learn common causes and step-by-step fixes to restore full remote functionality. Source: https://clearthecode.com/articles/key-fob-wont-lock-doors-only-unlocks-ford-l9513-1996 Author: ClearTheCode # Key Fob Unlocks But Won't Lock Car Doors 1996 Ford L9513 Experiencing a frustrating issue where your 1996 Ford L9513's key fob successfully unlocks the doors but fails to lock them? This common problem can be perplexing, as partial functionality often suggests the fob itself isn't entirely dead. Understanding the specific symptoms and diagnostic steps can help pinpoint the root cause, whether it's a simple fix or a more involved repair. ## What drivers notice on this 1996 Ford L9513 Drivers of the 1996 Ford L9513 primarily notice that the remote key fob's unlock button operates the door locks as expected, cycling them open. However, when the lock button is pressed, there is no response from the vehicle – no click, no movement of the lock actuators, and the doors remain unlocked. This can lead to security concerns and the inconvenience of manually locking the doors every time. ## At a glance: difficulty, repair cost, and diagnostic workflow - **Difficulty Rating:** 6/10 — Moderate - **Common Symptoms:** Unlock button works normally: Doors unlock reliably with a single press.; Lock button has no effect: Pressing the lock button yields no response from the vehicle's door locks.; No audible click or whirring: Unlike when unlocking, there's no sound of the door lock actuators attempting to engage.; No exterior light flash: Typically, a successful lock command triggers a flash of the parking lights or turn signals; th - **Estimated Repair Cost:** $100–$900 (parts + typical shop labor) - **OEM Tooling Required:** Standard OBD-II scanner and hand tools **Diagnostic workflow:** 1. Confirm the symptom on your vehicle. 2. Scan for stored or pending codes with an OBD-II tool. 3. Inspect the most common causes in this guide (visual checks first). 4. Run verification tests before replacing parts. 5. Repair, clear codes, and verify on a test drive. ## Symptoms and warning signs When your key fob exhibits this specific behavior, here are the key symptoms: - **Unlock button works normally:** Doors unlock reliably with a single press. - **Lock button has no effect:** Pressing the lock button yields no response from the vehicle's door locks. - **No audible click or whirring:** Unlike when unlocking, there's no sound of the door lock actuators attempting to engage. - **No exterior light flash:** Typically, a successful lock command triggers a flash of the parking lights or turn signals; this does not occur. - **Manual locking functions:** The door locks can still be operated manually from inside the cabin or with the key in the door cylinder. - **Other fob buttons may work:** If your fob has a panic or trunk release button, these might still function, further indicating a specific issue with the lock command. ## How to verify and confirm the issue To confirm the problem and gather more clues for diagnosis, perform these checks: - **Test with a spare key fob:** If you have another key fob for your 1996 Ford L9513, test its lock functionality. If the spare fob works, the original fob is likely the culprit. If both fobs fail, the issue is more likely with the vehicle's remote entry system. - **Check fob battery:** While an unlock function suggests some power, a weak battery could still cause intermittent or partial functionality. Replace the battery with a fresh one, even if the unlock works. - **Observe door lock actuators:** With the door open, press the lock button on the fob while watching the door lock mechanism. Look for any slight movement or hear any faint sound. Compare this to the unlock action. - **Inspect the lock button:** Visually inspect the lock button on the fob. Is it sticky, damaged, or worn? Sometimes, the internal contact for a specific button can fail. - **Listen for relays:** Have a helper press the lock button while you listen near the fuse box or under the dash for any relay clicks. Absence of a click suggests the signal isn't reaching the lock relay, or the relay itself is faulty. - **Check interior lock switch:** Verify that the power door lock switch inside the vehicle (if equipped) can successfully lock and unlock all doors. This helps differentiate between a fob-specific issue and a broader door lock system problem. ## Common causes (most likely first) Given that the unlock function works, the problem is usually isolated to the lock command circuit. Here are the most common causes: - **Faulty key fob button or internal circuit:** The lock button itself or the specific circuit board trace for the lock command within the fob may be worn out or damaged. - **Weak key fob battery:** Although unlock works, a marginal battery might not provide enough power for the stronger signal often required for the lock command or for consistent operation. - **Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) module issue:** The vehicle's RKE receiver module might be failing to interpret or act on the lock signal, even if it receives the unlock signal correctly. This module is responsible for processing fob commands. - **Wiring issue in the lock circuit:** A damaged, corroded, or loose wire specifically for the lock function between the RKE module and the door lock actuators, or to the lock relay, could be the cause. - **Blown fuse:** While less common for partial functionality, a fuse related specifically to the lock circuit or the RKE module could be blown. Check the vehicle's fuse panel diagram for relevant fuses. - **Faulty door lock relay:** The relay responsible for sending power to the door lock actuators for the lock function could be defective, even if the unlock relay (which might be separate) is fine. ### Related guides on this vehicle - [1997 Toyota Avalon Won't Start After Sitting for Days](/articles/car-wont-start-after-sitting-3900-toyota-avalon-1997) - [2020 Toyota Corolla: Car Won't Start, No Fuel Pump Prime Sound](/articles/car-wont-start-no-fuel-pump-prime-toyota-corolla-2020) - [Car Won't Start, No Click, No Crank 2017 Toyota Rav4 Diagnosis](/articles/car-wont-start-no-click-no-crank-toyota-rav4-2017) ## Step-by-step diagnosis and fixes Follow these steps to diagnose and potentially fix the issue: - **1. Replace key fob battery:** Start with the simplest and most common fix. Even if the unlock works, a fresh battery can resolve intermittent issues. Ensure correct battery type and orientation. - **2. Inspect and clean key fob:** Carefully open the key fob (if possible) and inspect the lock button contact. Look for dirt, corrosion, or physical damage. Clean contacts with isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab. - **3. Test key fob programming:** Sometimes, the fob may lose part of its programming. Attempt to reprogram the key fob to your 1996 Ford L9513. Consult your owner's manual or an online resource for the specific programming procedure for your model year. This often involves a sequence of turning the ignition on/off and pressing fob buttons. - **4. Check vehicle fuses:** Locate the fuse box (usually under the dash or hood) and identify fuses related to ## Related pages - All repair guides - [Browse vehicles](/vehicles) --- This guide is not a substitute for OEM service procedures; use a qualified technician for safety-critical repairs. ## Frequently asked questions ### How urgent is this problem? If symptoms are worsening or safety systems are affected, diagnose soon; minor issues can often wait for a scheduled service visit. ### Can I drive with this issue? Short trips may be acceptable for some faults, but stop driving if you notice overheating, loss of braking, steering problems, or strong fuel smells. ### Do I need a dealer scan tool? A basic OBD-II scanner helps confirm codes; some steps still need visual checks and meter tests described above. ## Related pages - All repair guides - [Browse vehicles](/vehicles) ## Explore related guides on ClearTheCode - [Browse OBD-II codes](/codes) - All repair guides