Just got back from mechanic , apparently they could not get the interior panel completly off & someone there cracked the panel trying to stick their hand between panel and door frame ! Mechanic said the only way to get interior panel off /out of the way was to take out the back passenger side seat. ( ? )

Told them to hold off for now andand brought the vehicle home.

 

So, you are not going to consider a body shop or locksmith?

 

considering body shop , another mechanic. Don't think a locksmith would be an option on this since there is no key lock on the door.

 

They do know how to manipulate locking mechanisms. They are not called Keylocksmiths.

Limit yourself, if you wish.

 

Not trying to limit myself.

Thanks.

 

Ok , I was able to pull interior panel back enough to see inside. and the mechanic had the handle rods still disconnected ( they busted the plastic acuator in half ) I could move the arms on the " latch " that the door handle rods attach to , but still can't open door . I felt a small cog / gear on the latch & it would turn slowly one way. I got a long rod and tapped on the latching device to see if it would release from stricking plate/arm but to no avail. BTW - I agree with the mechanic that to get panel completly off the rear passenger seat will have to come out !

It's getting dark and kinda cool so I'll try tomorrow.

May try to get my phone camera in there to take a pic or two to post here.

 

No luck at all today , door still won't open. I may go ahead and take rear passenger seat out to get the interior panel ( hopefully ! ) off.

 

I found this part. Door Lock Actuator Standard DLA 683 Fits 08 11 Chevrolet HHR | eBay
The last time I called her "actuator" - this is not true. Sorry, translation difficulties.
Here is a picture, name and part number (item 18). 2006 Chevrolet HHR DOOR HARDWARE/REAR PART 2