Nissan Repair: side door, latch assembly, compact mirror

Question
Hi we have a N reg Nissan Serena we cannot open the side door it was ok yesterday. Hubby has taken off the panal but still dont know  please help thanks june

Answer
June,

The lock assembly has most probably failed.  The part that lets the latch release is the problem and not the door handle.  That is the most common problem.  The easy way to describe this to you is to use a torch and a small, compact, mirror taped to a length of wire to get a look from the inside.  Use the mirror and shine the torck on the mirror for light and you should see where the clip has fallen off the latch assembly.  You can use a length of wire or a bent screwdriver to get it to release.  Most probably the plastic clip on the end has broken and needs to be replaced.  Just did one on a Toyota last week.