2000 XJ door latching issue

I've got a flakey rear driver-side door latch. Works sometimes, then not. I've cleaned and lubed as much as possible from the outside. I can manipulate the latching plate with a screwdriver with the door open, and it appears to be turning freely and latches and unlatches.......then, go to close the door, and it won't latch, or it won't even engage.

did a search but didn't find much for the XJ doors.

Thought I'd ask here before I perform exploratory surgery.

Thanks!

 

Interesting... not sure why you could operate it manually but it won't work when trying to close the door.

I have a problem with the driver's door on my 00 XJ where if you push the lock button on the door and then close the door it will unlock, I can close the door and lock it by putting the key in the door so I haven't really put a whole lot of effort into diagnosing it but I suspect I will need to replace the latch assembly. Not hard to get off but I believe you will need a torx bit.

 

I would open up the door because it's not too difficult. Check out the linkages, remove debris, lube and just observe the mechanical action. Perhaps something is gummed up or some debris is blocking proper linkage movement. Wouldn't suprise me if some linkage is worn or blocked due to the age of the jeep.