2003 ford windstar rear door will not open. It appears the rear handle is now not releasing the door. How do I remedy this? I do not see a way of removing the plastic rear inside panel without damaging it.

You can get it open in two ways: By using your key fob and remotely opening latch or by pulling inside panel on rear hatch and manually pulling lever to get latch to release. Most times when you cant get rear hatch to open normally is because cable from outside release handle to latch broke. Have cable and release mechanism inspected and replace worn or broken parts as needed.

take door panel off your latch might only be partally connected look around were the handle is or were the door latches into the van to see if theres any loose bars or cables in the door more than likely thats the problem

not a problem that I have dealt with yet but I did find a solution for I hope good luck 99 Ford Windstar Rear door latch won open

My back hatch would not open but it appears the lock was sticking and the return spring to the handle is broken. We used the key to unlock the back door and then door opened. Then husband sprayed WD 40 in all the lock holes. Now once we open the door we have to push the handle back down as return spring is still missing but the door opens :) . My van is a 2002 Ford Windstar.

Sounds like the mechanism inside the door has come off, should be a rod and clip that holds it to the latch.

electronic lock solenoid is in lock mode position.

if it has an electronic button release....check for blown fuse....

The door pane is held on for the most part by plastic christmas tree shaped clips all along the door's edge, a plastic putty knife works ok to release them but there is a special tool, there are about 10 of then and they can be a bugger to release the first time. Be very careful not to damage the door panel they are very expensive.