I have a 2007 denali and the outside door handle broke on the drivers side. I rolled doen the window now I can't open it from the inside either. How can I get the door open to repair the issue?
3 Answers
I see several topics on this problem over at gmtruckclub.com, try their forum as the solution to getting a door with two broken handles open is pretty involved. If your door used the locking steel rods a slim jim may be able to get the door open, if your door uses the newer style locking cables, try removing or cutting away the broken handle to grab the end of the cable and pull it.
Roll up the window and try again. If that does not work, unlock the door and make sure the deadbolt is not engaged. Then you can use a crowbar or sledge to get the door open. The door may need to be replaced however.
Denali doors are very very expensive from a salvage yard. I would not take a sledge hammer to one. You would be better off cutting away a handle to access the mechanism (cable or rod) inside, as door handles can be replaced much cheaper than a door. With the window down you might even be able to operate the lock mechanism with a lockup tool like a slim jim. If you are REALLY stuck and don't think you have the means to DIY, try calling up AAA or a local tow company and explain the problem, a lot of them carry a good set of lockout tools that might open the door without damaging it, even with broken handles.