The key for my Toyota Corolla doesn't work, what can I do?
After two months standing neither the wireless key nor the manual key will open the driver's door of my Toyota Corolla hybrid. What can I do?
Asked on 29 April 2026 by Leon Taylor
Answered by
David Ross
After two months of being parked up it is likely that your 12V battery has gone flat which is why the key fob will not open the door. The manual key is the back up for this situation but as the physical door lock is not used often it is possible that the barrel has seized, so we would suggest spraying a penetrant such as WD-40 into the barrel and trying the physical key again. On some vehicles you may need to pull the door handle while turning the key to make it operate. If this is unsuccessful you can try the passenger door or boot lock as alternatives. If you still cannot unlock any of the doors you may need to call a breakdown service or automotive locksmith, and once you have access it is important to recharge the 12V battery so you can use the vehicle as normal.
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Very efficient hybrid hatchback with a surprisingly upmarket interior. Good to drive, too. Standard equipment levels are generous.

