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  #1  
Old 12-23-2011, 08:23 AM
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Default GunVault Malfunction...

I recently bought a GunVault and installed it in my vehicle. Well after working properly for 3 weeks, the latch no longer opens when I enter in my biometric code. I have to use my key. The latch still clicks when I enter the code but the door doesn't open. I'm pretty upset because the entire point of the safe is quick easy access and it's bolted into my vehicle through the frame. I'm not going to be happy if I have to uninstall it to get it repaired. It's the GV2000 model, anyone have a problem like this before?
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Old 12-23-2011, 08:28 AM
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I've always avoided "biometric" electronic locks because of hearing stories like this one. Don't recall specifically having heard one about GunVault before. Hope they fix it for you.
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Old 12-23-2011, 08:55 AM
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I hate to break it to you, but I have never had one that worked long.
Look up V-line. They are mechanical, not electric, and have never failed me or any of the guys I know who have them.
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Old 12-23-2011, 08:58 AM
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I've read of one instance where a cable or something inside the safe broke and wouldn't operate the latch anymore. If I remember it performed similarly to what you describe. I've also heard of low batteries causing a similar malfunction. That's what mine was. Try changing the batteries before you go to all the trouble of unbolting everything (that is, if you can access them with it installed. Changing the batts is a big PIA on my unit!) Good Luck!

Oh...and don't get too freaked out by things, I've had mine nearly 4 years with only the one battery malfunction, just change-em regularly

Last edited by Dadsnugun; 12-23-2011 at 09:01 AM.
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Old 12-23-2011, 02:41 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by DeadWhiteGoose View Post
anyone have a problem like this before?
Yep, though mine might have lasted a couple years before going tango uniform. I have an older one that still works. At some point they cheapened up their quality and it was obvious between the older one I have and the broken one.
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Old 12-23-2011, 08:25 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by DeadWhiteGoose View Post
I recently bought a GunVault and installed it in my vehicle. Well after working properly for 3 weeks, the latch no longer opens when I enter in my biometric code. I have to use my key. The latch still clicks when I enter the code but the door doesn't open. I'm pretty upset because the entire point of the safe is quick easy access and it's bolted into my vehicle through the frame. I'm not going to be happy if I have to uninstall it to get it repaired. It's the GV2000 model, anyone have a problem like this before?
Did you try changing the bateries? Use ONLY Duracell or Energizer.

I read of several problems with the biometric model. Some guys will program more than one fingerprint just to be safe.
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Old 12-23-2011, 09:28 PM
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My non-bio gun vault did this when new. I put lube on the latch and it went away. A few years later, the problem came back. More lube fixed it. I am not thrilled by this, but I now keep it lubed. I open it at least twice a day, and battery life has been good.
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Old 12-23-2011, 09:41 PM
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I agree, change the batteries and you should be good.
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Old 12-23-2011, 10:23 PM
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+1 on the batteries. Cold weather can really sap the power out of the little dry cells. I don't know whether the fancier batteries will do better. I like the idea about going with a mechanical latch but that could mean slower and less convenient access.

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