2011 4Runner rear key switch

Hey guys,
I have a 2011 4Runner SR5. The interior switch to raise/lower the rear glass works perfectly but whenever I insert my key in the rear switch on the hatch the key does not turn left or right. Any suggestions?

 

If the hatch hasn’t been opened often with the key(s) over the years you’ll find that the key doesn’t quite fit that lock anymore. The reason is that as the key is inserted into the ignition many hundreds or thousands of times it wears a little around the edges, as does the ignition lock mechanism. They usually wear in the same manner so there’s no problem. But when you insert that old worn key into the hatch lock it doesn’t match and won’t turn.

This happened to me on my 3rd Gen that I had for almost 20 years. After 15 years or so both keys didn’t work in the hatch and barely worked in the door locks. I just lived with it because the key fob had a window up/down control button.

 

Had exactly same issue with my 2010 SR5. Lock probably got some rust or debris and wasn't turning at all. I fixed it by putting Break Free CLP in the keyhole, wiping out excess coming from underneath the lock and waiting for a few hours. Then I was able to turn my key just fine. Probably other quality CLPs or gun oils will do, I wouldn't put in WD-40 though, people say it attracts dust and dirt too much. But it might work too.