After troubleshooting and searching the forum, I've narrowed my issue down to replacing the door lock actuator. The metal arms behind the door panel are trying to move but don't, sometimes they'll even move halfway (I've tried both with key fob and door panel buttons), those are my symptoms. Tried replacing the LOCKS fuse to no avail.

If the part comes this week i may try to attempt changing it this weekend. Has anyone here ever replaced a door lock actuator? It doesn't look too difficult. But my main concern/question is do you also have to remove the entire exterior door handle in order to change this part? The actuator has 3 metal rods, one to the interior door handle, one to the locking mechanism, and one to the exterior door handle. Can the rod going to the exterior door handle be removed from the base of the actuator? Or does it have to be disconnected from the door handle?

 

Found my answer after watching videos on YouTube of similar GM models. You can remove the yellow clip from the metal rod that goes to the external door handle. I'll update the thread with photos and if it resolved the problem this weekend.

 

Replaced the door lock actuator today, it is no longer weak when moving and works perfectly. Got an OEM one from a guy on eBay who refurbishs them. It was extremely easy to replace it so I didn't bother taking pictures or anything. Ordered the other door now that I know that was the problem.

 

Nice! Good to hear it was simple and just a weak worn out actuator.