Not on a Toyota but I had something like that on a Nissan. I took the strike plate off and put a flat washer on the back at each bolt, moving it out that small amount solve the issue, was a wear problem on the striker.

 

Thanks for the feedback if it happens again I will give that a try

 

the striker plate will need to be adjusted. Latch should release with ease when cable or key is used. Being loose means that the latch can use the leverage to open.

 

Thank you. I did adjust it a bit and it would unlock for about 3 or 4 pulls but then stop unlocking again after that. I figured if those bolts are too tight maybe that prevents the latch from disengaging when I pull the lever. I don't see the bolts coming off so I think I will leave it the way it is with a little bit of play in it since it seems to work best that way

 

You can hit the striker and see if it aligns better with the latch. It sounds like there was a small accident at some point in the car’s life to tweak the latch from aligning with the striker plate.

 

Thanks, I think I'll leave it a bit loose since it seems to be opening with it that way. As far as the car goes I bought it used but a few years ago but I know it's not from an accident since it just happened recently, I haven't been in an accident since I bought it. Who knows the reason behind it. Thanks again