How to Fix a Car Door That Won't Close Properly

It's happened to the best of us. You're driving along and suddenly you hear a loud "thunk" as your car door slams shut on its own. Or maybe you go to close your car door and it just won't budge. Whatever the problem, here is how to fix a car door that won't close properly.

This problem can happen with the older car's door as well as with the new cars. Door is the main part of the car. This is annoying that you want to go somewhere, you open your car door and suddenly it is not shutting properly.

It would be better for us to understand the importance of some parts of the door, which play a vital role for its proper functioning.

Parts of the Door

First, you need to know about the parts. So, you can easily find the main part where the issue is.

• Handles of the door
• Hinges of the door
• Latches of the door
• Anchors of the door
• Locks of the door

The above-mentioned parts perform major role in the mechanism of the properly working door of the car. For fixing the door this is better to know about the parts of the door so you can fix it properly.

Reasons for Why the Door Is Not Closing Properly

There are several reasons for the door not closing properly, or it stuck halfway.

• By an accident.
• Dust or Rust issue.
• Frozen or Jammed door.
• Damaged Latch or hinges.

Sometimes while getting out of the car, you may hit the lock and the lock flips over accidently, you then hold the door and re-try to close it, but the door won't close properly.

This may cause by the dust or rust and the latch issue that can help the door to open and close. The latch is made up of plastic, so the plastic expands, and contract and it doesn't flip properly. The frozen door is another reason for not opening properly. You can fix this issue with the help of Google or videos. Let's talk about the latch fixing of the door.

Expert Tips

• Check the Alignment of the Door by Looking at the Gap Between It and the Car Body
• If There Is a Gap on One Side, Adjust the Hinges on That Side to Bring Them Closer Together
• If There Is a Gap on Both Sides, Adjust the Hinges So They Are Slightly Further Apart
• Close the Door and Check for Any Gaps Between the Door and Car Body; If There Are Any, Readjust as Necessary
• Test Out the Door by Opening and Closing It Multiple Times; If It Still Doesn't Close Properly, Take Your Car to a Mechanic

Analyzing The Fault

First, you need to analyze the fault of the door's mechanism. So, you can easily examine where is the fault either in the latch or anchor, why the door won't close properly. Don't panic and give yourself some time to examine the issue. You should have some tools in your car like a srewdriver and in ten to fifteen minutes you will fix the issue by yourself.

1. Door Latch Fixing

Now start the fixing method by using the tools. It is a simple thing to fix. Do not slam the door because if you slam it again and again you are going to damage the door mechanism.

Tools for fixing the door: You do not need so many tools for this method, you need two things for fixing the problem, a can of lubricant and a screwdriver. Let's start with the method and save your money. Here are the some of the steps that you should follow while fixing the door latch

Step 1: Pull the Handle of the Vehicle Look at the Latch and Rotate It Upward

Open the door, pull the handle of the vehicle look at the latch and rotate it upward. While fixing the problem, hold the door correctly. Ask a friend or a family person for your help to hold the handle if you are not able to do this task alone. Now push the screwdriver gently towards the vehicle.

Step 2: A Can of Spray Lubricant and Just Give It a Little Bit of a Spray

Get yourself a can of spray lubricant and just give it a little bit of a spray inside there, do not use too much. Give it two to five minutes and then clean the lubricant by using a soft piece of cloth. If there is some dust clean it gently.

Step 3: Close and Open the Door Gently and Do Not Slam

Now test it, close and open the door gently and do not slam. You can just work it back by yourself, it must be fixed now.

2. Door Hinges Fixing

If your car door is not closing perfectly, you should check your car door hinges also there may be some dust. Another reason behind, there can be a loose hinge. All you need is a screwdriver. Tighten the hinges with the help of a screwdriver and clean the dust.

3. Door Handle Fixing

There is a metal rod in the door handle, it might be broken which is why the door is not opening. This is simple and easy, you need only tool, which is a screwdriver, fix the rod with the help of a screwdriver if the rod is not fully broken otherwise you should visit a mechanic, he will replace the rod and the door of your car will close properly.

Advice and Precautions

• You should never drive a car when you are facing a problem with your car door or any other part.
• Wear your seat belt and do not drink while driving.
• For avoiding risks do not speed.
• Car door's handle, lathes and anchors are the main parts of the door they seem to be perfectly working while you are driving.
• If you have failed to fix the door by yourself or you have caused more damage than the fixing, go for the mechanic he will take care of your problem.
• Never leave your car open on the road, it's dangerous
• Drive carefully.
• Save your money and fix your car's minor issues with the help of googling the articles instead of visiting mechanics.

I hope this article would have helped you.

Conclusion for Ways to Fix a Car Door That Won't Properly Close

• Check the alignment of the door
• Make sure the hinges are properly lubricated
• Tighten all screws and bolts on the door
• Adjust the striker plate, if necessary
• Replace the weather stripping around tahe door

Door alignment, hinges, screws and bolts, striker plate, weather stripping are all important factors in ensuring your door is functioning properly. By checking these items and making any necessary adjustments, you can help keep your home safe and secure. Have you checked these items on your door recently? If not, be sure to do so today!