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electrical problem

C6 doors won't open with a dead battery

C6 doors open with electronic push-button releases instead of mechanical handles. When the battery is low or dead, the doors may not open from outside or inside with the normal buttons. Manual releases exist inside the car, and the owner's manual explains how to get in and how to reach the battery. Many owners only learn this when they're locked out.

moderateEasy 15 minutes–1 hour (DIY) Community experience1,090 views

Source: Widely reported by owners. Not a GM statement. Confirm with a qualified technician. Follow the owner's manual for entry and jump-start procedures.

When to stop driving

This is not usually a driving-safety issue, but always make sure everyone can get out. Don't leave a person or pet in the car if the battery is weak.

Symptoms

  • Door buttons do nothing
  • Doors open intermittently or only on the second press
  • Key fob doesn't unlock the car
  • Hatch or trunk won't open
  • Low battery warning shortly before

Likely causes

  • Dead or weak battery, often from sitting
  • Parasitic drain from an accessory or module
  • Worn door release switch or actuator
  • Weak key fob battery (for fob-only symptoms)

What to check

Diagnostic steps, in order. Stop if any step needs tools or skills you don't have.

  1. 1Read the owner's manual section on entering the car with a dead battery and on the manual door releases. Do this before you need it.
  2. 2Replace the key fob battery if only the fob seems affected.
  3. 3Once inside, use the manual release lever if the electric button doesn't work. Its location is shown in the owner's manual.
  4. 4Test the battery with a meter or have a parts store load-test it.
  5. 5If the battery is fine but one door still won't open, suspect that door's switch or actuator.

Possible solutions

  • Charge or replace the battery
  • Use a battery maintainer whenever the car sits for more than a week or two
  • Track down any parasitic drain
  • Replace a failed door switch or actuator

Parts commonly needed

  • Battery
  • Battery maintainer
  • Key fob battery
  • Door release switch or actuator (as needed)

Warning signs

  • Slow cranking
  • Battery or charging warnings
  • Door releases that respond slowly

Prevention

  • Use a battery maintainer during storage
  • Know where the manual releases are and show passengers
  • Replace an aging battery before it fails
Information here combines factory data and owner experience and may not apply to your exact car. For brakes, steering, suspension, fuel or anything safety-critical, consult a qualified mechanic. Read the full disclaimer.

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