Toyota Repair: 2003 Sienna stuck door, release lever, coathanger

Question
Ted, the back door of my 2003 Sienna is stuck. It's always worked fine prior to this. It seems to be stuck in the locked position. The outside release lever is either missing or just depressed, it's hard to tell. I also tried to open it from inside, but no luck there either. Do you have any idea on what I can do, hopefully inexpensively, to release or fix it? Thanks for your time.

Answer
This is a common problem, the outer handle is broken. The door can be opened from the outside, make sure it's unlocked using the remote or the key, look inside where the handle connects, there is a small opening, the release lever can be seen inside, use a small hook, one can be made from a coathanger, inseret the hook and catch the release lever and pull down, this should release the latch and the door will open. The the inner panel can be removed, the license plate holder and the handle. You can get a new one from the dealer.