Drivers side door lock/latch problems

[Bronze MFP]

Ok guys, after spending all weekend drying to slim jim my lock open, I am turning to you all before I got to the stealership.Here is the deal, I was going to unlock my car the other day and I felt something pop when I did. After that the door wouldnt stay latched closed. I hopped inside, closed the door and locked it from the inside. It worked, the door stayed closed, but now It will not unlock or open. I have a FSM, but it wasn't much help as I can't get the door open to take the door panel off to try and fix anything. Has anyone had this problem before? its a 1995 s14 if that helps any. Im getting tired of hopping in through the window dukes of hazzard style, so any help would be appreciated. Thanks!:help

[NISTECH]

break the door panel cause that is most likely whats gonna happen at the "stealership".

[drjohn]

Stealership thats low man!!! Some of use working here work at the DEALERSHIP buckaroo!!! Anyway if you can get the window down look to the rear of the door and the latch assembly is covered with a plastic sheild. The spring that returns the lock latch to the unlock position is probably in the bottom of the door. You will need to use a long screw driver and break the plastic cover off the latch assembly and try to release the latch. You will need to operate the handle and the lock to find the correct rod to push. And you will need a new door latch assembly.

[NISTECH]

Dr john i was mearly quoting him.I also work for a dealership. but am finding more and more on these forums members taking stabs at us accusing us of being theifs and such.

[Bronze MFP]

I guess I shouldn't stereotype all dealerships as being shady, I have just had a few very bad experiences with dealerships in NC, but they put me off enough to try to do everything myself or find an independent mechanic that I trust. So far the nissan dealership that i go to for parts has been very helpful and I will probably end up bringing my car there to get this lock fixed if drjohn's solution doesn't work for me.I didn't know stealership was going to strike such an ill-thread and I apologize. Thanks again for the help.