Advice sought on unlocking my 996 when remote is deactivated

[Chris Stott]

GeoNic said:

Looking for help on my 1998 996 Carrera
I’ve owned the car for over 5 years and last year I had a problem with the Drivers door looking mechanism.
Apparently there’s a small catch or rod in the locking mechanism that allows the key to turn the lock so the car can be unlocked manually if the remote central locking doesn’t work or if the car is not used for a period of time.
The rod on my 996 has failed causing the key to turn in the lock but not unlocking the mechanism. (Apparently it’s a common fault).
I’m reluctant to break the drivers window and have spent most of today with a wire coat hanger trying in vain to unlock the door.
Does anyone have any other suggestions that doesn’t involve me taking a hammer to the window ?
I realise that it’s not something that can be discussed on an open forum but would appreciate an y possible suggestions.

Don't need to use a hammer, but I think you'll struggle to get in to it without breaking the glass.

Few years back, when my drivers door lock was broken, I came back from holiday to find my wife had locked the car before we left. Needless to say, couldn't get in to the car.

Tried loads of different things, including getting the AA out as they swore they'd be able to get in to it (they tried for an hour, and failed miserably).

In the end, I spoke to my insurance company, and they agreed to cover the door glass replacement... one of the window companies came with a NS door glass, a sheet of adhesive film, and a dot punch... hour later all done.