Intermittent issue with the door only opening from the outside

More then likely the handle is not the issue. There is a cable that is inside the door and when you pull the handle it pulls this cable that releases the latch. Either the cable is out of adjustment and at times it doesn't actually release the latch. Or the latch itself is sticking.

Here is a guide that will help with removing the interior panel that will help you see what is going on inside to figure this out:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/door-panel-removal

I also attached the info below on this that will help remove these so that you can find out which is the issue. Let us know what you find and we can go from there. Thanks

Hi,

There is a chance the linkage inside the door is loose, stretched, bent, or damaged in some way.

What I need you to do is remove the door panel (I'm assuming it's a front door) and inspect the exterior door handle and linkage from the inside of the door. Check to see if anything looks loose or bent.

Here are the directions for the removal and install of the door panel. The attached pictures correlate with the directions.

________________________________________

2007 Hyundai Truck Santa Fe FWD V6-2.7L
Front Door Trim Replacement
Vehicle Body and Frame Doors, Hood and Trunk Doors Front Door Front Door Panel Service and Repair Removal and Replacement Front Door Trim Replacement
FRONT DOOR TRIM REPLACEMENT
FRONT DOOR TRIM REPLACEMENT

NOTE:
- Take care not to scratch the door trim and other parts.
- Put on gloves to protect your hands.

1. Remove the quadrant inner cover (A).

Pic 1

2. Remove the inside handle cover (A).

Pic 2

3. Loosen the door trim (D) mounting screws. Release the clips that hold the door trim, then remove the door trim by pulling it upward. Disconnect the power window switch connector (A), power mirror connector (B), and door courtesy lamp connector (C).

Pic 3

4. Installation is the reverse of removal.

NOTE:
- Make sure of connectors is plugged in properly and each rod is connected securely.
- Make sure the door lock and opens properly.

______________________________________

Let me know what you find or if you have questions.

Take care and God Bless,

Joe