1997 Park Ave Driver's Door will not unlock or open from inside or outside

[Greg5150]

Ok, here is the problem: 1997 Buick Park Ave driver's door will not open from inside or outside. It will not unlock. The inside lock/unlock button will not move to unlock position. Using the key from outside will not unlock the door. This happened on the coldest day of the year (15 degrees). I'd love to take off the door panel to look inside but I can't open the door! I'm getting tired of entering and exiting the car from the passenger door! Any suggestion are appreciated - thanks

[aleekat]

Since this happen when it was so cold. I would try some "lockthaw". Most auto parts stores carry it. May be just frozen.

[Tech II]

The problem is in the latch itself(will need a new latch, and you can't remove it until the door is open).........it's probably rusted/frozen......not going to be easy, but you are going to have to remove that door panel......once removed you will have to remove the vapor barrier, and spray that latch with PB Blaster, while moving the connecting rods at the same time....repeatedly......let it soak for about 10 minutes and then do again.....

Should practice removing the passenger door trim first......there is a specific procedure or you will be busting plastic all over the place......you will not be able to remove the whole trim because there is no clearance at the front of the trim and "A" pillar....but should be able to pull the rear up and then outward....it is not easy because all the fasterners have to be removed from the outside edge of the trim, the screw around the door handle has to be removed, and with the outside edge all released, you have to pull upwards, to release the two tabs in the center of the door......

In this weather you need a heated garage, or just wait for one of those warm freak days....

[Blue Bowtie]

If you can open the left rear door, you MAY be able to direct a straw from a spray can into the strike area of the LF door latch. Liberally apply a good penetrating oil and/or water displacing lubricant. If you can get the door open after allowing some soak time, and perhaps after a few applications of lubricant, follow Tech II's instructions and repair it properly.