Troubleshooting Thule Lock Cylinder that Won't Unlock

Question

Question:

Can’t unlock my Thule hitch mount! Any suggestions?

asked by: Bonnie V

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

It's not super common but sometimes lock cylinders can get corroded and not want to turn/unlock. What Thule has told us in the past is to direct some spray lube like WD40 into the key hole and then insert and remove the key several times to help work the lube into the tumblers to release them.

expert reply by: Jameson C

1

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Answer 1

With new Thule keys sometimes you have to run the key in and out a few times and wiggle it around a bit to get them to turn correctly. The problem is there is sometimes a tiny bit of extra metal on the keys that needs to be worn off by wiggling the…

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Answer 2

Hey John, thanks for reaching out. Yes we do have a mounting hardware kit for the Thule Excursion cargo box. For that you will need the following: - Replacement QM3 - Quick Mount Hardware - for Adventurer Cargo Box #TH04997

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Answer 3

Based on the 2820 tumbler and key number matching up (along with the fact that you were able to lock it) you certainly have the correct key for your carrier. If you're not able to insert the key and turn it all the way to unlock the cylinder you…

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Answer 4

Does the key turn at all? Or does it turn but not release the lock mechanism? It is not unusual to need to lightly tap the key all the way into place in the lock core the very first time you use it so that it seats fully. You can use a rubber mallet…

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Answer 5

The only way to remove a Thule lock cylinder like the ones in #TH450400 is by inserting the master key into a cylinder in the unlocked position. However, I have a few tips and tricks to help you remove the broken key to allow for the master key to be…

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Answer 6

To drill out any lock core you want to start off with a small drill bit (tungsten carbide-tipped or cobalt drill bits work best) and then work your way up in drill bit size until the lock core is released. We don't have any videos of this but…

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Answer 7

You can replace the lock core in your Thule Excursion rooftop cargo box using their One-Key System Lock Cylinder Kit #TH450200. This kit includes 2 lock cylinders, two keys plus the universal control key that will be used to remove the old core and…

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Answer 8

The Universal Change Key for Thule One Key Locks #853-1251, which is the same as D1251 key you have, is only able to remove unlocked lock cores that have a code beginning with N or E. If you have another code prefix then you will need a locksmith, or…

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Answer 9

This is actually a fairly common issue as confirmed by Thule. With regards to your Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 2 Bikes #TH83JV, they recommend running the key in and out a few times, while wiggling it around a bit. Often times there is some extra…

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Answer 10

If you look at the lock core on your Thule Excursion cargo box you will see a number stamped on it. With that info we can easily pick out the correct replacement key as a Master key would not work. A Master key can only remove an unlocked cylinder…

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Answer 11

If the lock cylinder on your Thule Excursion Cargo Box is in the unlocked position you can just use the Universal Change Key, #853-1251, to remove the current cylinder and replace it with a new one, part #THLOCKN022 and #THKEYN022. If the box is…

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Answer 12

If you've already tried using the silicon spray and there is still no luck, then your best bet is to have the lock cores replaced, unfortunately. What you're going to need to is either call a locksmith and have them remove the key or you can…

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Troubleshooting Thule Lock Cylinder that Won't Unlock

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