same thing happened on my 94 altima. I ended up working the whole door panel off with the door closed. Ihad be gentle and slowly work out the back end first, unhook the rods ans unlock it that way. Idrove for a month and half before having the courage to work the panel off gently, it will come off with out riiuning the door panel if your careful. I took the seat out for better access to the whole panel. Good Luck!!
Scott
Scott