I cannot get my driverside door to open so that i can get out of the car
More than likely, the handle hardware is broken at the back of the handle. The inside and outside handles are connected to the latch mechanism directly by 2 different rods; one from the outer handle to the latch, and one from the inner handle to the latch.The handle has a bar coming from the handle, and there's a hole at the end of this bar. The hole has a rod in it that connects the handle and the latch. When you pull the handle, it pulls the rod, and the rod pulls the latch, and the door opens. The handle is plastic, and so it's common for it to crack and break. With your vehicle being a 2009, is it still under any kind of warranty? That'd be easiest.This repair is simple, but not always easy. The procedure is simple, but often it's very tight, and thus, difficult to get everything iin and out without bad words. You need to remove and replace the interior handle assembly. If you're not one that works on cars, then you'll want to take it to a shop. Price the handle at a salvage yard and at the dealer so you have an idea of availability and what the price range is. There WILL be a big difference, so it may be worth it to buy the part before taking the car to the shop. Then you only pay for labor. Also, always ask to see your old parts at the shop. They can show you what broke.If you want to do it yourself, here's the general procedure:1. Remove the inner door handle faceplate. Usually it's held on by a screw located in the 'well' of the handle, behind the actual handle itself. Sometimes it will be covered by a cover to make it 'pretty.' Pry that off/open with a small screwdriver, if nec. Gently pull out on the faceplate, both front and rear, as sometimes, they are held in with tabs at the front and a screw at the back, for example.2. Once the faceplate is removed, you should be able to see the handle assembly. This is also usually held on by one or 2 screws. Remove the screws.3. Gently pull out on the handle assembly. Sometimes you may have to slide it backward or forward before it will pull outward. It's held on by rods in the back. There are many, usually 3-4 that are for the lock button, handle, latch, etc. This is also the part where things can get really tight. Use longnose pliers to help. You will need to remove these rods and remember where they all go. Also, be aware of any retaining clips. Sometimes, they are attached, sometimes not. Don't let them fall down into the door.4. Once the handle assembly is out, install the new one by doing everything above, but in reverse.If it sounds or gets too complicated, it's ok to let someone else do it.Hope this helps.Good luck! :)
