Just picked up a 2006 H3 and we are loving it so far.

It only came with one key. I've discovered the only way to unlock the rig is with the key fob.

If I put the key in the door, it will turn to the right and will unlock the door but won't turn to the left to unlock. I've tried lubing the cylinder and today I took the door panel off. All the cables inside are hooked up and operating. I took the linkage rod off and it works properly, just the cylinder wont turn left.

Before I order a new cylinder can someone confirm that the key works in the traditional sense of left to unlock, right to lock?

Also, is this a transponder key or no? I've googled and searched this forum but can't seem to get a definitive answer. I had the hardware store make one but it didn't even turn the lock cylinder...not a surprise, they always screw up key copies.

 

On my H3 (2008) Alpha, the key turns left to unlock, right to lock. Keyfob is the only way to arm the security system; if armed, unlocking with the key (instead of the fob) will start the alarm until I start the vehicle (or hit the button on the fob).

 

BTW, no transponder chip in the key; my plain metal copy ($2.99) works fine, both in the door and the ignition.

 

Thanks for the reply, I got motivated today and pulled the door apart. I found the tumblers in the lock cylinder would turn to lock, but wouldn't turn to unlock. Rather than buy a $70 lock cylinder, I took it apart and chamfered the tumbler groove with my dremel. A little cleaning and fresh grease and it works great now. Thanks again!