Cannot unlock/open my 2006 Expedition

fantamdsp · 10-31-2009, 10:52 PM

We bought a toy hauler and have been installing some equipment in the toy area. To do, we've been running the lights in the trailer from the battery connected to the trailer. That, in turn, is powered by the SUV battery, since we didn't have the vehicle running. When the lights in the trailer started to dim, we turned them out and went inside. I decided to start the car to charge the battery. However, the locks don't respond to the hand held opener, nor does the key work in the lock. Meanwhile, the lights that normally come on when you press the opener, as well as the inside lights are on and dimming rapidly. By this time, I'm sure the car battery is dead, as well.
How can I get the car open so I can open the hood and recharge the battery. TIA for any help you can provide.

Dave Peterson:nonod

savo · 10-31-2009, 11:49 PM

They key will not manually turn any of the door lock cylinders?
Sound like the previous owner had the ignition rekeyed and negeclted to give you the original door key.

Do you know the keypad code?

fantamdsp · 11-01-2009, 06:28 AM

No, I don't know the keypad code.

fantamdsp · 11-01-2009, 06:56 AM

For some reason, this morning I was able to open the driver's door with the key (whereas neither my wife nor I could last night). Now I can open the hood and charge the battery. Thanks for your help!

theoldwizard · 11-01-2009, 08:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fantamdsp

To do, we've been running the lights in the trailer from the battery connected to the trailer. That, in turn, is powered by the SUV battery,

I don't like this type of connection.

First, the battery voltage at the hitch from the vehicle will never be adequate to re-charge the battery in the trailer. Check for yourself. With the engine running at fast idle, check the voltage at the battery under the hood. Then check the voltage at the battery in the trailer. If you don't have at least 13.8-14.2 volts you are not adding charge to the battery.

Second, you really should add something called a battery isolator between the vehicle and the trailer battery. You do not want current following back into the vehicle from that trailer. That can cause problems like you have experienced.