If the latch won t retract the problem is with the spring or the latch housing.
How to fix a door handle that won t open.
Remove the thru spindle.
Remove the handles including the thru spindle.
Here are the general steps to remove the handle and lock from the door and test the retraction mechanism.
Use a spatula or putty knife to get a little space between the door and the frame then use a combination of wiggling and brute force to get the door open.
Look for the set screw on neck of the knob between the handle and door.
Slide a flathead screwdriver into the hole in the latch and twist it.
Take the door off the hinges.
It may be on the.
If the latch retracts then the problem is the connection between the doorknob and the spindle.
Take knob handle off the door.
If the door does not allow the lock to be jimmied open it may be necessary to remove the door from its hinges.
Unscrew the doorknob from the door.
To fix the door knob figure out where the connections have gone awry.
Place flat head screwdriver in the gap you removed the spindle from.
You can try bracing one foot against the frame and pulling hard.
Don t try to kick or smash it open because this could damage the door and injure you.
If the bolt moves but not enough to allow the door to open the mechanism probably needs lubrication.