CAJohn99

I can't open the driver's door on my ES250! Tried using the key(s), tried crawling across from the passenger's side and using the door switches, tried putting a coat hanger down into the window slot and pulling on connector rods. I've tried everything! All doors open EXCEPT the driver's door.

I think maybe the actuator motor in the door lock assembly may be burned out, but to reach it, the door panel must be removed and to remove that, the door must be OPENED! HOW?

Lexus wants $700 to replace the door lock, but hasn't told me how they intend to OPEN THE DOOR and are not very excited about taking on the job! I've repaired many of my autos but never have I run into such a ridiculous electrical system as Lexus employs!

How about using the car as a HUGE DOOR-STOP? Maybe that's in its future!

HELP HELP HELP HELP ANYONE OUT THERE

marcoes300

here in montreal , we can call a taxi and they have something to open it like when you forgot your keys.... its gonna work 100 % ... already happened on my acura tl , someone tryed to stole my car and i wasnt able to open the door with my key and the remote was death ( no batterie) , i called a taxi they charged me 25 buck ... but eummm no finaly u said you wasnt able to open it from the inside right ?? is u r not able from the inside, forget about it

CAJohn99

On my ES250, the driver's door lock is DEAD. I disconnected the battery, hoping that the electrical problem with the actuator would be "reset".....didn't happen.

The door is locked and stays locked no matter what method to get it to work I use. Maybe only a cutting torch will allow me to get into the lock area!

Thanks for the Montreal tip.......will remember it when I get there....if ever!

scottys209

Cut the door panel, then get a new one from a wrecking yard / ebay.

worldforgo

Exactly what I was thinking.

decypher

is there no manual door lock switch on the interior of the driver's side door? can you manually switch it into the unlock position with your hand after you enter the vehicle from one the doors that are open?

CAJohn99

Yes, one would think that the interior switch would work but it only opens the other doors, and NOT the driver's. The manual push-to-lock button on the interior pull moves slightly when the master button is pushed but still does not open the door. Nothing will open the driver's door, not the key, not the switch, not manually. There's a little actuator motor I'm told, but it must be burned out and preventing the linkage from fully toggling the lock mechanism. Lexus has some odd engineering, and the older ones like mine are known for their wacky electrical problems. Thanks for your comment....to all.

CAJohn99

Seems that the jury has determined "go thru door panel" to my inquiry regarding how to get into the door-lock mechanism inside the door....now I wonder what the material inside the upholstery is? Masonite? Cardboard? Any ideas for cutting into from the inside? All suggestions welcomed!