I went to lock my doors today and the pass. door refused to lock. I would physically move the lock tab, but I could tell there was resistance somewhere down the line in the mechanism. Took the panel off and started checking. Key tunnel turns freely and the pivot that connects the inner handle's lock tab with the rod leading to the door jamb door jamb is fine. I'm assuming this has to do with the door jamb unit itself because the blockage/resistance is somewhere in there.

So before I start taking the door jamb and things apart tomorrow morning, has anyone experienced this or know exactly what's going on? Thanks.

Sounds like there may be some surface rust in the area.

I'm going to buy a replacement lock actuator before I tear it all apart. From what I've gathered on toyodiy, it looks like 69030-20550 is the correct part no. It's discontinued, but I found one on eBay.