How do you get a door open that has a bad actuator?

1994 GEO PRIZM
202,000 MILES
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94PRIZM
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The power door lock on the driver door appears to have a bad actuator(?). I cannot unlock the door by key, switch, remote or manually pulling up the lock. Is there any way to get the lock freed up or just the door open so I can remove the door panel?
Sep 2, 2011 at 6:49 PM
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JDL
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I don't know if a slim-jim will work or not? The police department usually carry them? I don't know if the autostores carry them or not? You might be able to straighten a wire cloths hanger, make a hook on one end, slide it down beside beside the glass, see if you can hook anything?
Sep 2, 2011 at 6:59 PM
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MMPRINCE4000
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You will probably have to remove the front seat and take panel off.

You could also get a locksmith to open it.
Sep 3, 2011 at 1:56 PM
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94PRIZM
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Actually, this is happening on the passenger side as well, only this side is stuck in the unlocked position. I can get the door panel off, and can reach in to where the lock rod latches, but it will not move in any direction. Tried to WD-40 it, but no luck to date.
Jan 3, 2012 at 8:37 AM
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WRENCHTECH
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When opening the door with a key, it is done mechanically, not electrically so you are not even using the actuator. There has to be a mechanical problem in the linkage and the door panel will have to come off for that but you will have to get it open the first time somehow to get it apart.
Jan 3, 2012 at 11:01 AM
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