Auto body repair & detailing: 97 Jeep Wrangler Sport Drivers side door lock is jammed, jeep wrangler sport, latch assembly

Question
QUESTION: The drivers side lock has recently become stuck in the lock position. I don't know if it is just stuck because of the cold or what. I am unable to unlock the door from the inside and cannot get the key to turn on the outside. This has happened before but I just wiggled it little and it unlocked. Any ideas on how to get this door open would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Doug

ANSWER:  Put the latch in lock position. Gently pound around the latch area with your fist. Try to unlock the door first before you touch the handle, then open the door. This may take a few tries but should work. When you try to open a locked door on an older vehicle, quite often the lock will jam in lock position because of corrosion. Lube it up real good with penetrating oil to keep it from doing it again.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you very much! I was able to get the door open. Could you please give me an example of a good penetrating oil that I could use (name brand etc). Also where do I put this oil, in the key hole? Let me know

Thanks

Doug

Answer
Saturate the complete lock and latch assembly. WD-40 is good but evaporates fast, just go to a parts store and see what they have to offer. Lube all your locks, ect. often, at least every oil change and in a case where you have had problems, more often.