Anybody have any ideas? I took the door panel off and I can see the linkage move the latch up a bit when I pull the interior handle, maybe just doesn't move it far enough? I tried lubing the latch but no change.

You have likely broken the plastic piece on the door handle.
They are cheap and can be purchased from Pelican parts.

http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/SuperC...P_pg2.htm#item8


This usually happens when they get old OR if you leave the door lock 1/2 way engaged and pull the outer door handle.

I thought that piece was to fix a door that won't open from outside. Mine won't open from inside.

Opening the door from the inside has nothing to do with the outside handle. You can remove the handle and it will still open from the inside.

You may need to adjust the latch post.

How is this done?

Yes you are right. Sorry.

I have had both. Best is to completely remove the latch mechanism and clean it up very good. Lube and reinstall.

If I recall correctly, there are plastic bushings in the handle and the latch that the rod snaps into and it keeps the rod from falling out.
I seem to recall one of mine still looked good but the middle bushing broke so when I pulled the inner handle it did not move the latch far enough to open the door anymore.

The fix was get new plastic bushings, I had spare doors so I stole them from the spares, not sure if they are available at the dealer.

Had similar issue with mine. If you look very closely you might notice that the inner handle has cracked where it pivots and doesn't work properly anymore. replacing it was the only fix that worked for me.

The handle is fine, it pivots and moves the linkage, which in turn I can see moving part of the latch up. If something was broken, I don't think the latch would move at all. Probably just needs a bit more lube than I gave it.

The screw that holds the chrome trim can interfere if it's too long. Pull that out and see if the handle works.

What "chrome trim" are you referring to?

Mine moved but not enough, had to pull it and look very closely. but it might not be your problem, just sharing my experience.

The plastic "cup" piece that is behind the handle on the door. You have to pull the handle to see the screw head. Sometimes they are black and not chrome.

Already mentioned that I had the door panel off. Besides, my trim is black

OK wise guy. You want my help or not?

If you put the screw back in without the having the black cup in place the screw will be extend too far in and the door will not unlatch.

Ha, sorry if I came off as a wise guy. I don't believe I put the screw back, but I'll check.

Ok, time to eat some crow

Turns out that I HAD put the trim screw back, causing the handle to not swing enough to open the door. Funny, because every other bolt, washer, nut, etc. that I've taken off this car has been put in a labeled plastic bag . Door opens fine now. Thanks to all who contributed to this thread!