My driver side door will no longer open from the inside, I have to roll the window down and use the exterior door handle to let myself out! I've had my truck (1997 Limited) for less than a month. The first week the door worked but it was a littler rough when I used the door handle from the inside, like it was grinding on something. It would also not work if the lock was even slightly depressed.

Now the interior handle doesn't function at all, but is now smooth, no more grinding feeling. Locks work fine.

Anybody experience this issue before? Any resources you guys may be able to point me toward that will help me out? I am no mechanic, but am handy enough with tools. Would love to avoid the mechanic on this one.

You'll need to remove the door panel, and look at the rod that connects to the inside door handle. Most likely the clip that holds it in place is broken.

Or the door handle itself is broken.

Here's a write up I did about the lock, might help you with the visuals.

Door lock replacement 96 runner

Thanks guys I'll attempt to fix next weekend