Yes the locking mechanism is shielded, I had to break it open! I was then able to acess the mechanism to open the door. I then had to remove the inside window guide in order to remove the key lock bar, this then allowed me to remove the locking mechanism. It was very dirty, which I was able to clean it with oil, however I see signs of wear on the key bar slide within the mechanism, this appears to be the problem. It works fine, as long as I don't lock the door. I am now on my way to find a new locking mechanism. This is my next challenge, as I am working and living in Spain with limited Spanish.
Diego, February 2008