I have a 2005 Accord that had a "stuck" passenger door. The exterior and interior handles would not open the door. The lock **** was being actuated from both the driver and passenger side controls, but I couldn't get the door to open.

I was able to get the panel off from the inside and after fumbling around inside near the latch mechanism, I was able to unlock the door.

I need to figure out what was causing this problem so that I can be sure to replace the right part.

The interior and exterior handles are both connected to the latch and are "moving" it, so it seems like the cables/rods are attached.

I manually closed the latch mechanism using a screwdriver and when I tried to open it using the door handle, it would not release the latch.

Is it safe to assume that this is a bad latch mechanism?

 

Don't know enough to advise you.
Guesses, ....
Would look to see if the rods are connected properly and functioning
If they are then it must be the lock or latch mechanism??