Chevy & GMC Vans

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?

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.

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.

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

Sliding door frozen shut will not open

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

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

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