2013 Toyota RAV4 front passenger door lock is caught. It sounds like it locks/unlocks- but we can't get it open-seems caught. How can we fix this?

rough usage of door handle bends internal mechainism,you will need to remove door panel iside car and replace door opening mechanism or repair it

I am guessing this car is still under warranty, yes? The part is a cheap plastic thing in the middle of the door assembly that has either broken or has come disconnected. The dealer should not have a problem replacing this for free under warranty. If it's an issue, just demand the door lock kit.

SO DOES THE METAL KEY WORK OR NOT?

If the electonics magic fails , this is first., right?

just passenger door?

so locks can jam, and can be very hard to fix.

object stuck there, (closing door with junk in hands)

also playing with latch, by kids can trip it into an illegal mode.

first get it closed, 100% is it.

then use the key, if that don\'t work it needs service.

the key is for emerancies, say baby stuck in car, so..... use it.

Sounds like you need a new ignition

Change the battery in the remote key.

The door gaskets could be frozen to the body, or you could have ice in the door latches.
Can you drive the car into a warm garage ?

try takeing the door panel off and check to see if the rod came out of the lock button.

sounds like the key is the problem - my advice get new door locks and ignition barrell

Pls explain if you have electric door locks or not. A seized solenoid (if you do) will preevnt the latch from working...Regardless of whether you do or not, anything wrong with the alternator will give not you door lock issues. You problem is purely mechanical. The electronic function (option) just assists the mechanical (non-powered) door locks. The doors should work; (the lock/unlock/open/close) even with the battery disconnected, using the manual controls.

Your door latch assembly may be compromised. It could be rusted, the electric solenoid (if it has one) may be seized. Or the rods from the key are bent. Are you using th key in this door regularly? If not, the tumblers in the lock may be seized. Spray some WD-40 in the lock where the key goes, and jam the key in & out repeatedly, and retry. Remove the door panel & spray the interior of the latch, also. Hope this works for you; or, you are going to need new latches.