I have a '96 rodeo, and for the longest time the driver side door would not go in the lock position when I used the auto-lock button - no biggy, I'd just lock it manually.
The other night I was driving to the video store and when I tried to get out, the door was stuck in locked position. I now have to crawl out the passenger's side. I can't unlock it using my key (feels like I'll break it off in the lock) I also can't unlock it by lifting up on the lock.

Any ideas on how to open the door? and/or removing the doorpanel with the door closed?
thanks,
Paul

maybe try a locksmith to get it unlocked?

Take the door pannel off and spray the door lock with pbblaster, and put the key in the lock and gently work it back and forth. Other than that try a locksmith


Nick

If you can get a key in but it won't turn, it's probably a stuck pin.



If you use an solvant / oil based lube to clean your lock, then clean it again with isopropal alcohol. AFTER you get all the gunk out and the alcohol dries, use graphite.

Or, my advice is to just use squirt some graphite dust into the lock, and wiggle the key back and forth.

Lots of people like WD-40 or other products in locks. They leave a film that collects dirt/dust, and leaves you right back where you start. Talk to a locksmith, they use dry lube. (Graphite). You will find it in the key section of Wal-Mart, or at a locksmith shop.

Or, if you know an aircraft mechanic, you can get a can of dry-slide. Great stuff--sprays and penetrates on like WD-40, dries like graphite. I know they must sell it somewhere else, but I haven't seen it. The can that I *accidently* <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" /> left in my Amigo has lasted me for years....too, too many years.

Well, I got the door open and the panel off... at first I thought it was the lock actuator/solinoid but I disconnected it and still had the problem - when its unlocked it works fine, but when locked it won't unlock... after further inspection, it looks like the latch mechanism is to blame. I'm looking for a replacement today, so hopefully that'll work...
thanks for the advice,
Paul