I have a 1970 Chevelle Malibu, 2 door hardtop. Locked the door from the outside, now the door won't open.

Removed door panel to diagnose problem, can not see any linkage missing. Door open linkage is there and working, locking mechanism is there and working. One difference I noticed is that the lock linkage does not move as much as the working passenger door.

Removed outside lock, to see if that was inhibiting movement of the lock and it was not.

Tried shaking door up and down, in an out while moving lock and handle.

Any ideas?

Thanks for any help!

Time for a new latch mechanism.
Here is how to remedy this problem. From the inside of the car, push the lock knob down into the lock position. NExt, grab the INSIDE door handle and move it as if you were going to open the door to get out of the car. Don't be afraid of breaking..you won't. Give it a good pull and then release it and make sure it goes back into it;s original position. The lock knob should come up into the unlock position after doing this.

Or try this....

http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2434159&postcount=6
http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=209001&highlight=door+stuck
http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=105176&highlight=door+stuck

Lube up the assembly real good too like the post above says.:thumbsup:

Try lots of WD40 to loosen things up. Had the same thing happen to me.

It's fixed! :hurray: Turns out the exterior door handle pushbutton rod was too long, not allowing the internal lock mechanism to reset itself after locking. Shortened it and everything works great now.

Thanks to everyone for all of the really helpful replies!

I saw your problem and couldn't help it!



http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa306/rlfan1/LoveBug1969_FF_104x78_101420081144.gif

"Let me out"
"OK, let me get your door open for ya"
SLAP! "I'm very capable of doing it myself!"
(Turns to hippie)"Help! I get get out! could you help me please!?"
"We all prisoners chikey-baby, we all locked in"
"Excuse me ma'am but could you please help the young lady get her car door open?"
"LOOK, I'm busy, further more I ain't no mechanic, so c'mon ma'am back in your seat."



The Love Bug, a classic for sure.:D