I've got a 2021 Highlander Platinum, and the right passenger-side door is suddenly not opening. It's been really inconvenient especially with two kids in tow. The key fob and the interior handle both feel like they're engaging something, but the door just won't budge from the closed position. I've tried locking and unlocking it multiple times, and even checked for anything jammed in the latch, but no luck. Has anyone else experienced this with their 2021? I'm trying to figure out if this is a known issue before I schedule a service appointment. Any advice or similar stories would be a huge help! Thanks in advance.
Right passenger-side door not opening
- Thread starter maui33sj
- Start date
This situation has been described by other owners for your vehicle's generation. The issue is often related to a failure in the door lock actuator or the internal latch assembly. Since the door is stuck in the closed position, a home repair is very difficult because you cannot easily remove the interior door panel to access the mechanism. Check if your Highlander is still within its 3yr or 36k mi basic warranty period, as a dealer visit will likely be necessary.
Silvergirl90
Member
I agree with you, but before going to the dealer, one last thing you could try is a lock and pull trick.
Sit in the car, lock the doors, then with one hand, hold the interior handle in the open position while using the other hand to unlock the door with the central lock button on the dash.
Sometimes this can get a stuck linkage to release. It's a long shot, but it's worth a try
I haven't seen an update from @maui33sj yet so I'm wondering if they gave the lock and pull trick a shot or ended up going to the dealer. If it worked, that'd be good to know for others dealing with the same issue. If not, and the door's still stuck, I'd be curious if the dealer confirmed it was the actuator or something else.