My rear door would not open earlier, pressed the handle and nothing besides the window dropped as usual.
Every time you press the handle the window drops about an inch until it reaches the bottom. to get it back using the key it does the same an inch at a time.
From what i have read is it safe to presume my problem is with the locking side instead of the window side?
This has happened once before, after banging and locking/unlocking it rectified itself.

after banging and locking/unlocking it rectified itself.

Click to expand...

had same .. ( @ 79k miles on clock ) i.e. tailgate door ..
opening and closing it .. although the window did not keep dropping
end of day decided to change the locking mechanism
easy job ..
now only have to nudge it gently to close it

also now i only use a dry ptfe lubricant for it .. ( have done so only once )
as i suspect oil / grease types kill the mechanism .. i.e. maybe cause the plastic bits to swell and stick

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I have a lock/actuator ALR8702 arriving today so will be trying to get the rear door open and changing it.
Anything else that i should be looking for/checking?

While you have the panel off, check all the pulley cables and guides and put some lithium grease on and on the metal mechanism. Also check for rust behind the handle and on the rear of the panel.
And get a long prodder or screw driver and clear the bottom of the door out, there's a drain in there.
Mike