Front Passenger Door Wont Open

2002 FORD ESCAPE
215,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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NICHOLE2098
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My front passenger side door will not open from the inside or outside. The handle does not seem to engage at all and the "lock/unlock" indicator tab above the handle does not react when I hit the lock/unlock button on the inside of the driver's door. I had read that if you repeatedly hit the lock/unlock button it can eventually engage the lock again, but I have been unsuccessful with this. After the fourth repetition of this, the locking or unlocking does not seem to react at all until I leave it along for a few seconds and then start again. Because the door is stuck shut, I cannot remove the panel to see what is going on. Please help.
Nov 14, 2016 at 11:40 AM
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HMAC300
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you can remove the panel when this happens albeit not very easily. you probably have a broken door rod clip or clips causing your problem. they are available at auto parts in the help section usually. there are left hand and right hand. see picture. unfortunately we do not have pictures of door panels. also it could be a broken cable for inner door handle.
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Nov 14, 2016 at 12:12 PM
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NICHOLE2098
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Does anyone have a step by step process on how to remove the door panel enough to replace this part with the door closed?
Nov 15, 2016 at 9:29 AM
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HMAC300
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I found this from a 03escape so yours will be very similar, once panel is loose lift up normally to remove it. assembly is reverse of removal. see pics. try moving seat all the way back as well and it may require you moving it forward if something is hard to reach.
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Nov 15, 2016 at 9:41 AM
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NICHOLE2098
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Will I need to disconnect the car battery before doing this?
Nov 15, 2016 at 12:08 PM
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HMAC300
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it says to on first picture. I guess you better take the negative terminal off.
Nov 15, 2016 at 1:19 PM
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NICHOLE2098
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I saw that too so I wanted to make sure. Thank you. I will try these and post my findings.
Nov 15, 2016 at 1:24 PM
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HMAC300
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with disconnecting the battery you may have to reset security system on vehicle though when you get it done email back and I will send link on how to do it if you do not have your manual as it will be in there.
Nov 15, 2016 at 1:42 PM