I at last got the car back from my mechanic (and the Cadillac dealer who he subbed the convertible top work to). While detailing the car this weekend, I noticed that the right door lock does not operate by power and I can't flip the paddle. If locked, it unlocks stiffly with the key. If unlocked, it locks if I turn the key and operate the paddle at the same time. It seems to be some kind of mechanical hangup. (Operating both the paddle and key also makes unlocking easier.) Suggestions?

I have a set of speaker amps coming from Allantesource, so I figure attacking the right door speaker and doorlock at the same time would make sense.

The door panel probably needs to be removed so that you can get in and lubricate it. At 17 years of age, the original lubrication probably has gotten hard and sticky.

Most times a stiff movement is related to window switch wiring rubbing on the lock rod. Remove the power window switch from the arm rest and let it dangle with wiring connected. Look in the area where the switch was and work the lock paddle back and forth. If the rod from the paddle is rubbing, you should see it. The harness from the factory was wrap tied to the door panel to keep this from happening. Most wrap ties have been removed over the years and this lock binding will happen.

I exercised it enough that it's now locks and unlocks with the paddle and key. It unlocks with power. When I have my mechanic swap the speaker amps, I'll have him address this.

This rod is adjustable as well. Its threaded.

sounds to me like the power door lock actuator is going south.

jono