im trying to get access under the panel to fix the lock button. can i take it out the whole panel without door removel?

 

No. You don't have to remove the door, but you must remove the door panel to get to the back of it to release the switch. Door panel is easy - after you get the black triangle off behind the mirror undo the 2 screws (3rd picture) and carefully pop the door panel loose from eight places, then undo wiring and inner latch cable.