Driver's door handle will not open the door?

2001 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC
136,000 MILES • 4.0L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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JAS0822
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  • 74 POSTS
Just got this vehicle, and the exterior driver's door handle won’t open the door. I haven’t had a chance to take the door panel off to look at it, just seeing where else to look if that comes up with nothing.
Feb 24, 2025 at 12:19 AM
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STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
If it opens from the inside then the exterior handle control rod is broken or has fallen off. Here is what to look for once you get the door panel off. Check out the images (below). Please upload pictures or videos in your response of any problems so we can see what to help you with.
Feb 24, 2025 at 2:00 PM
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