QuestionI cannot unlock or open the driver's side door of my 1996 Buick Riviera from the inside or outside. I've tried using a slimjim to pull the lock but it feels as though the motor froze and has made it impossible to move the latch. I can't open the door to remove the inner panel but I really don't want to take the car in to a dealership either as it's not really worth that much to begin with. I'm fairly sure that the problem is the lock motor, but do you have any tips on how to remove the inner door panel to replace it? Thanks alot!
Craig
AnswerHi Craig,
Take it to a locksmith, or wrecker company.
I have seen them use plastic wedges between the window and frame, and spread it so far I thought it was going to break. They can look right down in there and see what they are doing.
You can do it yourself. Go to the tool area of ...say a Sears store where the chainsaws are, and get some wood or plastic wedges. Or cut some on a table saw.
Don't pry against the glass with anything metal though.
Here is another thought. I used to do it on a Monte Carlo about every year or so.
Take a can of WD-40, put the plastic tube on the can, and spray it inside the door in the direction of the latch, and in your case, probably toward the electric lock actuator. Just soak them down good.
You could remove the inner door panel from the other side to see just where things are orientated, so you know where to spray.
I did it because the actuator would click, but just not quite lock or unlock the door. Worked for me.
Having that panel off the right door will also let you see where to use the slim jim. May also see where to disconnect the linkage from the electric part.
Van
