Problem with my door lock/latch

Having a similar problem with the driver's door on my '03: have to lift outside handle 75% of the way up or more to get it to open the door. Inside handle works fine. Going to take off the inner trim panel and spray down the linkages with WD40.

 

Same problem here, the DS handle was broken when I got the truck, replaced it (not a fun task) and I could see WHY it was broken...super hard to pull it open from the outside, inside handle doesn't know there is a problem...will be doing the WD-40 hose-down tomorrow for sure!
Thanks for the tips!

 

And to think I just had both door panels off yesterday! I replaced both window regulators and all door switches. Oh well.

 

Hello everyone im new to the Forum, I recently bought a 04 Tacoma regular cab with a passenger door completely locked inside and out I thought it would be an easier fix but that doesn't seem to be the case. Today I removed the seat then door panel then pulled the levers to try to get the door open but no luck. I took off the outside door handle and I bought a new one. what's the best course of action to just get it open?

 

Lots of videos on YT to replace door handles with this problem. Mine has it too. Linkages are attached with plastic connections and they wear out of break.

 

the problem is that the plastic connections are intact and Ive watched the YT videos they're able to get the door open by pulling the levers

 

Happy to report that the WD40 (or Truper penetrating oil from Mexico) works just fine on this fix. Thanks to the above posters, 10 minutes and the door no longer locks when lifting the outdoor handle...