Passenger door locked shut

[shabazmo]

My 03 Passat's passenger door is locked shut. I have taken off the door trim amd the metal panel that sits behind it. This gives me access to the door lock mechanism. What I can't figure our is how to unlock the door. I know I will need to open the door to remove the lock, so must first unlock the door. Any ideas?.

[micheal balbrig]

I would say talk to a locksmith to see if they could help or make suggestion.
Another idea would be to look for an identical scrap door to see if or where you could drill a hole in order to physically release lock mechanism on your car door if space permits. Look through all similar posts, some members gave different tips worth trying.

[shabazmo]

I am still struggling with this. Can you state whether it is possible to release the lock. I know that on some forums peoplke have smashed the lock mudule to release it. Any comments?

[micheal balbrig]

Very recent post provides good tips on how to overcome this problem,all worth trying.

[shabazmo]

Thanks Micheal

[shabazmo]

I bought a door lock module from ebay £20, plugged in and it worked. I then release the old module by chiseling away at it until it released.

[rlesnik1]

I have a 99 Passat; in replacing the window regulator on the front passenger door, the door-lock mechanism (which hadn't worked previously) was also replaced. Everything seemed to go fine. The new module worked electronically, all the parts went in smoothly, and the door was in good shape. I neglected to check the new lock mechanism for lock/unlock, open, close, before closing the door. Big mistake. The door is now unable to be opened in any way. The lock mechanism works perfectly, both physically and electronically. However, the door is stuck. Any idea how I can get it open?

[shabazmo]

If the module works then I can only assume that you have not connevted both the mechanical door handle or internal release lever correctly. Is this you view of what has happened. Also why do you think the door lock mechanism works correctly.

[rlesnik1]

All cables were connected properly when re-assembled. I "assume" the lock mechanism is working correctly because the push-pull rod goes up and down when the lock is activated open or closed. The door seems to be jammed shut, is all. I've been trying to figure out a way of forcing it open short of destroying anything.

[shabazmo]

Ok, so when you press the remote key, the push rod raises or lowers the rod which tells us that the door lock is working. Then the problem will be with the opening mechanism. From what I can recall, the door opens using the outside door handle and the internal door release lever. Can you remember connecting them both. It is unlikely that you would have got both wrong. The next step is to remove the door panel and the metal window support panel. Did you buy a new or second hand door module.

[rlesnik1]

I bought a new window regulator and door module, and installed them. The problem now is that with the door closed (I cannot open it), I can't get to any of the panels to remove them and figure out what's wrong. I simply need help getting the door open. An earlier post suggested disconnecting the outer door-handle cable, which I've done, so now only the inside handle "works" (I can hear it moving the latch). But the door seems to be jammed shut.


Ok, so when you press the remote key, the push rod raises or lowers the rod which tells us that the door lock is working. Then the problem will be with the opening mechanism. From what I can recall, the door opens using the outside door handle and the internal door release lever. Can you remember connecting them both. It is unlikely that you would have got both wrong. The next step is to remove the door panel and the metal window support panel. Did you buy a new or second hand door module.

[shabazmo]

You should be able to remove the panels, albeit with difficulty. I did so. You know how to remove the door trim, so unfasten all the screws. Starting from the bottom you should be able to release the trim fasteners, then work your way to the a pillar where the door meets the windscreen. You will need to remove the trim and metal panel to investigate further. You can remove the front seat for more room.

when you pull the door handle, does the door lock rod rise?
not sure what removing the door handle cable would do. All it does is move the latch to open the door.

Try one other thing and that is to get someone to use the inside handle while you yank the door from the outside using the handle.

[rlesnik1]

Unfortunately, no access to the lower screws, as the door is closed, blocking any access. I've tried forcing the door with the inner handle held in the open position, and worked back and forth. No luck.

[shabazmo]

You can get access to the lower screws even if you cant see them. Look at the driver side and measure where they are, then slide your screwdriver between the door and the cill. You will feel when you have the screw deiver in the screw head. Have confidence.

[paulthefox]

any news about your door opening
paul