So I finally got the FD out of storage and replaced air filter and moved on to install my door handle (right side, JDM). No issue removing the old and replacing it with the new door handle. However, it opens and closes fine til I lock it then I can't open my door or unlock it. I have to pull it all apart to open the door again.



What's going on? Need some help, just spent last 3 hours with the same result.

it could be that for lock and unlock has 2 rods to do each one so try and look inside the door and see if there is a rod missing. if not that make sure your key isnt worn down cause ive seen where a key will lock (because they make it easy to lock) but unlock it will hang up on a few of the pins.

Nope both rods are there and the keys are in good shape.

I had a similar problem, have you checked the rods are in the right place? take the handle off and just try opening with the rods ? the amount of keys ive snapped in them locks is stupid, thats the only other thing i can think of.. is the barrel in the right place? it could of moved or be lose?

I can open and lock with rods no problem. can you further explain "is the barrel in the right place? it could of moved or be lose?" I have no idea what u are talking about or any pics?

The rod for the lock may have become either stretched or bent...can't remember which, and is not completely releasing the lock.

With the exterior latch off, operate the lock mechanism by pulling the rod up and down by hand and determine if stretching (straightening) the rod or bending (shortening) the rod might be needed to fully disengaging the lock with the movement of turning the key in the cylinder. You may have to take the interior panel off to do this.

Signal,



I checked and compare to the other side and it's bent, making it shorter. It bends while pressure is applied. I took the door panel off but can't really get at the locking rod. How get at to straighten it? not much room in there and close to window.

With the interior door panel off you should be able to get to one or more of the bends in the rod. Straighten each of them out a little, gaining length with each but not so much that it binds up.

I straighten the rod to lock mech, but now I think it binding now. For now i just left lock rod disconnected for to keep my sanity, frustrating.

I have pulled the fuse for the power locks in effort to lock the door manually. I can't lock door from inside, lever stuck and when I lock by key it will lock for a sec and then lock rod will pull itself enough to disengage it. Having no luck. But, at least I get get in and out from driver's side.