Side Door Latch Closed with Door Open
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Side Door Latch Closed with Door Open
While I'm waiting for my new rear sliding track to arrive (should be here Friday), apparently one of my kids or my wife managed to get the side door latch (on the rear of the side door) to close. But the door itself is not closed on the stud. So the door thinks it is closed, but you can slide the door back and forth. But you can't close it. And yes, I've tried the both the outside and inside handles to try and open up those latches to no avail.
I suppose this is a comparatively nice problem to have. (It could be stuck in the closed position) Worst case, I can take the whole stinking door off, remove the panels and figure out what is going on inside. But if anyone has any ideas as to how to get it to open (or if something else might be broken inside
), I'd appreciate it.
I suppose this is a comparatively nice problem to have. (It could be stuck in the closed position) Worst case, I can take the whole stinking door off, remove the panels and figure out what is going on inside. But if anyone has any ideas as to how to get it to open (or if something else might be broken inside
), I'd appreciate it.
Former ******
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 4,901
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From: Salt Lake City, Utah
Those latches first need to be loosened with a spray lubricant. I recommend using WD-40 or silicone spray till it is loosened. Once it is loose and properly working, you need to lubricate it with something thicker with more holding power. White lithium grease is the only product that works effectively. It is thick, so it doesn't run off, it doesn't collect dirt and grease, and it works in all weather. If that still doesn't work, either something is bent or broken, very common if the door has been forced instead of being lubricated. The linkage inside the door often bends or breaks as well. You can remove the panels. Some other people here could advise you better than I on repairing the linkage. But lubrication is your first line of defense. I recommend lubricating the hinges and latches of any vehicle you own at least once a year, to keep those doors closing like they did when they were new.
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