Door latch 2001 cavalier how to fix

in the past I have found that the pin the latch locks on is out of sinc or a weak spring

most likely a return spring is broken. remove the inside door and window winder handles and the arm rest if there is one, remove the door lining, clips hold the lining on they can be prized out with a flat blade, then remove the plastic dust cover, wind the window up , you can then remove the lock for repair.

If the latch is broken, and you can get the door open, the latch unbolts from the outside and comes out thru the inside door panel area.

I had a problem like this, and found the problem was a tiny broken spring on the door latch. 3 different body shops could not fix it. I had to nearly destroy the door panel to get it out so I could access the latch.
Once inside, after much proding and pushing and pulling, I saw where the spring used to be. The broken spring was in the bottom of the door. That helped.
I found a small spring in my junk drawer and fixed it right up. You cannot buy that spring as a replacement part, you would need to find a used door latch on e-bay or in a junk yard or salvage yard.
Be blessed.

I had such a problem, and had to remove the door inner panel (nearly destroying it in the process), so that I could access the door latch itself. 3 different auto body shops could not fix it. I finally found a tiny spring on the door latch had broken and replaced it, and the latch then worked, and has not failed since. I used a spring I found somewhere. The spring, if that is the problem, is not available as a replacement part. You would need to find a used latch in a salvage/junk yard somewhere.
Be blessed.

1. This is what probably occured
2. While the door was open the latch on the door was closed
3. If the spring inside the latch is broken, Working the inner or outer door release handles will not open the latch.
4. place a screwdriver in the opening of the latch where the door striker would be if the door was closed.
5. apply pressure to the latch paw while operating door release.
6. latch should open.
7. replacement of the latch will keep this from happening again

It may just be the latch is worn out. They can be replaced.

It is Very Dificult but the Door Pannel must be removed to gain access to the Lock and Latch Mechenizm

Common problem on 2001 Ford Explores. The reason why your door handle doesn't unlock the door(can't be unlocked by remote either)is due to a broken spring located on the backside of the door handel INSIDE the door. True that your one(or two) of your small exterior springs on your door handle are broken(will cause your handle to flap) but this IS NOT YOUR PROBLEM. The door locks will work if there is a bit of tension holding the handle bracket up. I know it's hard to explain without pics. but here's the ONLY WAY TO FIX THIS. It's not that hard.......... Remove the door panel, only a few screws and a few more holding trim around exit handle then, pull out "snap in" clips on bottom. With a flashlight you'll see back side of door handle. To get to that area you'll have to remove one bolt holding a window frame. Do that(with window in up position) then slide down rail, out of your way. Now, get back to handle. With your light aimed at the backside of handle left slowly the door handle as normal, and you'll realize(while looking at the mechanism) that tension(pulling down of bracket) needs to occur in order for locks(manual and remote)to work properly. Trust me.....you'll figure it out. Once you do, get a spring(pen spring, 30 cent hardware store spring, any small spring!) and hook one end to bracket and the other end to ANYTHING(OUT OF THE WAY) below the door handle thus, causing SLIGHT tension. Try your locks...THEY WILL WORK! YEAH! Replace that one window frame bolt(try your window...just the make sure), replace door panel and your done. TOTAL COST: 30 cents or FREE(if you have a small spring) Ford dealers will charge $150 to $285! Yikes!

Ford had a problem with the door handles not working properly. They are cheap plastic. If the exterior door handle is broken, you will need to drill out the rivets that hold it in, and then get the door open and the panel off. You have to disconnect the rod going to it. Then, remove the handle. If you don't want to drill again, I suggest replacing the rivets with a bolt and nut easily obtainable at your hardware store. I've found that a M7 bolt works very well. If you are having a problem with the interior door handle, it's the same problem. Remember to check your door latch because if your exterior handle is broken, then your latch isn't working properly. I got one at Ford for about 40 bucks.