The "evil" sliding door...

[JTalley]

Nobody can open my slider. I have no idea why. I have seen groups of people nearly ripping the handle off trying to get out, and freaking out about it. I climb back there, gently tug it, and slide it open. Several times I've watched someone unlock it, then tug on the handle- nothing. They lock, then unlock it- door does not open. I lock it, then unlock it. Opens fine. 4 or 5 other people have the gift; that is, the ability to open the door. Even they have difficulties.

As for shutting it, I have seen people slam that door so hard that the whole van moves and they cannot get it to shut. I can shut that door with one hand. Even the other people with the gift can barely do that.

Why? Anybody else have the same problem?

[LiftedAWDAstro]

Might be time to pull the door panel and lubricate/inspect all the linkages. Next time it happens to a normal person, have them push the door out at the back while pulling the handle.

[CaptSquid]

When opening the slider, you are actuating TWO latch mechanisms -- one on the B-pillar and one at the rear of the slider, right about center track level. Clean the latches and lube them with lithium grease.

[Wiley]

I added pics of the interior sliding door mechanisms here in a similar thread:

Sliding door frozen shut will not open

[safari kev]

my sliding door will get caught when its open and in the rest position. it can't get past whatever makes it so it won't close on you. It's a major PITA

[Relaxed Diver]

Have the same problem with people not actually using the handle properly, they try and do it all in one action.
Rather than unlatch and then slide open

[Waterboytommy]

I think it's trying to tell you it wants to be permantly shut and shaved:)