TLDR; How to get to the door latch without opening the door


I have a 2nd gen Neon (2001) that has the passenger door behind the driver not opening from the inside or outside. The first problem was the outside, I think the latch disconnected in some way, but we didn't bother with it since it opened from the inside. Well, one of us had the genius 1000 IQ decision to flip the switch for the child lock. . . the door doesn't open anymore. I haven't tried removing the panel yet since I don't wanna crack it if I am uninformed. Any advice helps.

 

you could try a slim jim tool on inside to try and snag the release rod.or possibly to flip child switch

 

You can't. The inner panel has to come off to get inside. Open the door on the other side. Remove the rear seat pad. Then you need to remove the inner panel. If you can find one the same color, get it as you may damage the panel a bit. With the pad out, start working around the door panel. Mostly they are held on with clips you pull the panel off with. there may be a screw on the edge or bottom. That's why you want an extra panel if you can find one at the bone yard. Eventually, you'll get the panel off and you can pull the weather shield film off. Most likely, the clips have gotten old and broken. This lets the rod come off. Replacement parts are usually available. Take the bad parts with you to show the parts gu Once you get it buttoned up, look inside the other doors as those plastic parts are the same age.

Next time fix things as they break so you don't have to go to this trouble again. Don't ask me how I know that..