Mechanically latches handles etc seem to be answered by a verified ford mechanic.
2001 ford f150 extended cab rear door wont open.
Once loose pull on the cable and the top latch will come loose.
Using my 2002 f150 i show you how i fixed the problem of my rear door supercab not opening.
I have a 2001 ford f150 extended cab small rear doors will not open.
Look on the latch and find the cable that should go to the back side of the latch.
This can be a pain.
Now you will need to replace the upper latch and cable assembly.
Use a pair of needle nose pliers and get it to release from the latch.
Fortunately i did not have to replace the cables and opted to u.
What happens is the door cables in ford trucks f 150 f 250 f 350 ranger and ford vans f 150.