1989 chevy cavalier - somehow safety door lock engaged and now I can't close the driver door. How do I unlock it?

CALL A LOCAL LOCKSMITH

It's probably a bad input to the BCM - body control module ! Have it checked for DTC'S - diagnostic trouble codes .
The automatic door lock function can only be enabled by the body control module (BCM) if the driver door open switch and door ajar switches are in the Closed state. For information on programming the automatic door locks, refer to Vehicle Personalization in Personalization.
DTC B3064 or B3069
DTC B3127
DTC B3128, B3133, or B3138
DTC B3132
DTC B3137
DTC B3272
Your best bet , take it to the chevy dealer . Unless you own a GM factory Tech 2 scan tool an have access to factory sevice repair info.
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The outputs to the door lock actuators are controlled by the body control module (BCM). When the BCM receives a lock input from a door lock switch, or a keyless entry transmitter, it applies battery positive voltage to the door lock actuator lock control circuit, a ground to the door lock actuator unlock control, and the driver door lock actuator unlock control circuits. When the BCM receives an unlock input from a door lock switch, it applies battery positive voltage to the door lock actuator unlock control, the driver door lock actuator unlock control circuits, and a ground to the door lock actuator lock control circuit . When the BCM receives an single Unlock input from a keyless entry transmitter, it applies battery positive voltage to the driver door lock actuator unlock control circuit and a ground to the door lock actuator lock control circuit to unlock the driver door. A second Unlock input from the transmitter applies battery positive voltage to the door lock actuator unlock control circuit, and a ground to the door lock actuator lock control circuit to unlock the passenger doors.

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTCs:
• DTC B3128 Left Front/Driver Door Unlock Circuit High
• DTC B3133 All Door Unlock Circuit High
• DTC B3138 All Door Lock Circuit High

Not the same year but close to the same.

How To Install Replace Power Lock Switch 2000 05 Chevy Cavalier Pontiac...

The ones I am familiar with are a simple lever that you move up or down and are in the face of the door near the door lock mechanism To lock or unlock it is just a matter of moving the lever.

there is still a lever on the latch that will allow it to open
you may need a hand pulling on the door to help

Rear child safety door locks are engaged. Check you manual for the procedure to release the Rear child safety door locks. This will solve your problem.

1

Close any open doors, and lock them all from the driver's door. You should hear the other doors locking when you turn the key in the driver's door. Check the other doors to make sure the lock indicators are in the "Locked" position.

2

Wait at least 15 seconds. Then, unlock the driver's door with the key. This should disable the alarm.

3 Take your car to the Saab dealership if the alarm engages even with the car unlocked. That likely means there is a contact inside the lock on the driver door that is faulty.

you have to use the key to unlock and lock a door.that is if its a factory alarm. after market add on may not work that way and may need the remote. if drivers door dont disarm it try the key on pass. side. doors have to be closed when lock/unlock with the key

you have to open the jaws on the lock by takeing a screw driver and pring it open while opening the handle. try that see if it works

Lock your door with the keyless entry (If you have it) if not just lock all your doors, pop your hood and shut all the doors. Then remove the negative off your battery for about 30 seconds minimum. Then reconnect the negative of the battery, close your hood, unlock the drivers door with either the key or the keyless system if you have it, and try to start your car. If that does not work then it is not your theft system but a bad grounding of your battery.