Door Will Not Latch Close
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On any car there are many compartments that open and close at will of the user. These compartments can vary from the car hood, doors, trunk, glove box and center-upper consoles. The one thing all of these compartments have in common is a latch mechanism that holds the lid, door or hood closed and then open when needed. Most latches contain a locking device that allows the user to lock the operation of the latch. On the opposite side of all latches is the "striker" which is the part where the latch holds onto when closed. This latch mechanism is designed to hold the striker within the latch clasp.
When the clasp is released in the latch the striker is free to move allowing the lid, hood or door to open. For the latch to work properly the alignment of the striker is crucial. If the latch is not aligned properly the latch will stick or not open/close. The hinge is on the opposite side of the latch which is equally important. If these hinges are allowed to move excessively the striker will be out of place causing the striker to be in the wrong location and this can impair the latch operation. All hinges should be free from lateral movement and maintained by applying lubricate at regular intervals. To ensure proper latch operation all moving parts must be free from dirt and grime. To clean a door or compartment latch use a mild solvent or soap. Once clean, dry thoroughly and apply lubricate as needed.
Door Latch Reset Procedure
Depending on application some latches are equipped with an electric solenoid that can automatically open or close the lock with a simple key fob or electronic switch command. A switch command can be activated manually or by the BCM (body control module) computer. These automatic controlled latched also possess the ability to detect the use of force is used to overpower the latch as in a criminal act. When the latch is overpowered the car alarm will sound to alert the car owner.
Occasionally the alarm system will be accidently activated. If this occurs simply close all doors, hood and trunk, then lock and unlock the driver's door. This action will disarm the alarm and resume normal status. Sometimes when a latch is opened it can have a "rebound" effect that can sometimes close the latch the second it opens. When a "rebound" occurs the door, hood or truck opens but the latch is now closed and will not except the striker and will not allow the door, hood or lid to close. This mean the latch will have to be opened before it will reconnect to the striker.
How to Open a Latch
Common Problems
Replace Car Door Electric Power Locks Test
When the clasp is released in the latch the striker is free to move allowing the lid, hood or door to open. For the latch to work properly the alignment of the striker is crucial. If the latch is not aligned properly the latch will stick or not open/close. The hinge is on the opposite side of the latch which is equally important. If these hinges are allowed to move excessively the striker will be out of place causing the striker to be in the wrong location and this can impair the latch operation. All hinges should be free from lateral movement and maintained by applying lubricate at regular intervals. To ensure proper latch operation all moving parts must be free from dirt and grime. To clean a door or compartment latch use a mild solvent or soap. Once clean, dry thoroughly and apply lubricate as needed.
Door Latch Reset Procedure
Depending on application some latches are equipped with an electric solenoid that can automatically open or close the lock with a simple key fob or electronic switch command. A switch command can be activated manually or by the BCM (body control module) computer. These automatic controlled latched also possess the ability to detect the use of force is used to overpower the latch as in a criminal act. When the latch is overpowered the car alarm will sound to alert the car owner.
Occasionally the alarm system will be accidently activated. If this occurs simply close all doors, hood and trunk, then lock and unlock the driver's door. This action will disarm the alarm and resume normal status. Sometimes when a latch is opened it can have a "rebound" effect that can sometimes close the latch the second it opens. When a "rebound" occurs the door, hood or truck opens but the latch is now closed and will not except the striker and will not allow the door, hood or lid to close. This mean the latch will have to be opened before it will reconnect to the striker.
How to Open a Latch
- Locate the latch in question
- Using a small metal device, a medium size screw driver works well for this, insert the screw driver into the clasp and pull outward while lifting the release handle or button
- The latch will now open allowing the striker to re-enter the clasp enabling the latch to again hold the striker in place resuming normal latch operation.
Common Problems
- When a door latch fails it will not allow you to open or close the latch
- An activation rod will become dislodged not actuating the door latch release. If this occurs the inner door panel must be removed to activate the latch release manually.
- The inner or outer door handle will fail not moving the activation rod that connect to the latch release. This will result in latch operation failure. In both cases the inner door panel, must be removed to activate the control rod manually. Occasionally the outer door handle can be removed with out removing the inner door handle.
Replace Car Door Electric Power Locks Test
The electric door locks inside of your car doors consist of a control switch, the locking door latch and/or an electric control solenoid. When the control switch is energized an electrical impulse forces the control solenoid to push or pull the locking mechanism depending on the command selected. (Lock and unlock).
Step 1: Identity Door Switches and Controls
Door Panel Components
The average vehicle door has basic controls for the different functions the door performs. Interior light and safety reflector helps illuminate the interior of the vehicle. When the door is open the light and the reflector alert people from a distance your door is open. The electric window switch controls the electrical power to the window motor. The motor turns a series of gears and/or cables to power the window up and down. The electric door switch controls electrical power to the lock solenoid actuator controlling the door to be locked or unlocked. A manual door lock switch allows you to manually control the door lock setting. Most manual door locks have an indicator letting you know if the door is locked or unlocked with a red panel when unlocked. The door handle controls to door latch which holds to door shut. Most door latches have two stages, the first stage the door will latch but not be fully closed and the next stage the door is fully closed.
Step 2: Removing Door Access Panel
Remove Inner Door Handle Bezel
First remove all plastic access panels and screw hole covers.
Step 3: Remove Control Switch Panel
Control Switch Panel
Pry gently to remove the switch panel, (do not break). Removing the switch panel is different in all cars. Some vehicles don't have a switch panel because it is built into the door panel.
Step 4: Disconnect Electrical Connector
Remove Electrical Connector
After the switch panel is removed, release the connector safety and disconnect the electrical connector.
Step 5: Removing Door Panel Mounting Bolts
Locate and Remove Door Panel Bolts
Locate and remove all door panel mounting bolts and/or screws. Some door panels use a plastic push style fasteners. After all door panel fasteners have been removed gently pull up and/or out on the panel and remove it. Remove all electrical connectors to fully separate the panel from the door.
Step 6: Remove Plastic Insulator
Remove Plastic Liner
Most car doors have a weather and sound insulator. This will expose the inner workings of the door; in this photo you can see the door lock manual control rod.
Step 7: Removing Connecting Rods
Disconnect Door Control Rods
There are three connecting rods that must be removed from the door lock assembly, the manual lock control rod, the door handle control rod and the exterior door lock assembly (outside the door).
Step 8: Remove Door Latch/Lock Mount Bolts
Remove Door Latch Mounting Bolts
Remove the mounting bolt from the door latch/lock assembly.
Step 9: Replace Door Latch/Lock Assembly
Remove Old Latch Assembly to Replace with New
After the door latch/lock mount bolts have been removed, release all electrical connectors and remove the control rods and insert onto new latch/lock assembly. Transfer control rods one at a time to avoid confusion. Most electrical connectors have a notch and only connect one way. After transfer of the control rods and electrical connectors reassemble door latch assembly. Note: before installing the door panel, test the latch and lock operation to insure proper installation.
Electrical Goes Dead When Engine is Cranked
Electricity is an elusive substance that can be easily interrupted by a bad connection or corrosion. When an engine is cranked over it demands a high amount of electricity (amperage) from the battery. As the electrical demand is increased heat will develop inside the wire or connection. This heat will disconnect (short circuit) the electrical flow until the connection cools. Since the battery provides the main electrical power to the remainder of the vehicle (lights, dash, interior) all electricity is shut off. Once the connection cools it can reconnect starting the process all over again. We have listed below some of the most common problems and repairs.
Car Repair Troubleshooting Information
Check Battery Cable Connection - The battery cable connection must be clean (free from corrosion) and tightly fastened to allow the flow of electricity from the battery to the starter. With the key in the off position locate the battery and inspect the battery cable connections. Battery cable connections must be tight and not wiggle on the battery terminal. If the cable is loose remove it and clean, then tighten the cable with a wrench or socket wrench. Use baking soda to neutralize any suspected acid residue before work begins.
Clean and Tighten Battery Cables
Check Battery Cable Corrosion - The battery cables are used to transfer electrical power from the battery to the starter. Battery acid causes corrosion inside the battery cable and will inhibiting electrical flow. To check for this condition look for bulges near the top of the cable, these bulges indicate corrosion expansion caused by the chemical reaction between the acid and copper wire. Remove the failed battery cable to replace with new unit, then check charging system to ensure proper operation.
Battery Corrosion
Inspect Battery for Bulging - The battery supplies electrical power to the vehicle, when a battery short circuits internally it can cause the car to lose power and gain it back again. Inspect the battery; if the sides are bulging it could have a warped plate that can short under certain conditions. This problem is rare but it does happen.
WARNING! Always wear protective eyewear, gloves and necessary clothing before inspection or work begins. Never crank an engine over when anyone is near the battery or engine. A battery is filled with explosive gasses that can ignite when extreme heat or a spark is present. A battery could have residual acid on the outside casing so use caution when handling a battery and the surrounding area. Use baking soda to neutralize any suspected acid residue before work begins.
If further assistance is needed, our certified car repair technicians are ready to answer your car questions. For manufacturer specific repair information visit - Car Repair Manual
Source-http://www.2carpros.com
Step 1: Identity Door Switches and Controls
Door Panel Components
The average vehicle door has basic controls for the different functions the door performs. Interior light and safety reflector helps illuminate the interior of the vehicle. When the door is open the light and the reflector alert people from a distance your door is open. The electric window switch controls the electrical power to the window motor. The motor turns a series of gears and/or cables to power the window up and down. The electric door switch controls electrical power to the lock solenoid actuator controlling the door to be locked or unlocked. A manual door lock switch allows you to manually control the door lock setting. Most manual door locks have an indicator letting you know if the door is locked or unlocked with a red panel when unlocked. The door handle controls to door latch which holds to door shut. Most door latches have two stages, the first stage the door will latch but not be fully closed and the next stage the door is fully closed.
Step 2: Removing Door Access Panel
Remove Inner Door Handle Bezel
First remove all plastic access panels and screw hole covers.
Step 3: Remove Control Switch Panel
Control Switch Panel
Pry gently to remove the switch panel, (do not break). Removing the switch panel is different in all cars. Some vehicles don't have a switch panel because it is built into the door panel.
Step 4: Disconnect Electrical Connector
Remove Electrical Connector
After the switch panel is removed, release the connector safety and disconnect the electrical connector.
Step 5: Removing Door Panel Mounting Bolts
Locate and Remove Door Panel Bolts
Locate and remove all door panel mounting bolts and/or screws. Some door panels use a plastic push style fasteners. After all door panel fasteners have been removed gently pull up and/or out on the panel and remove it. Remove all electrical connectors to fully separate the panel from the door.
Step 6: Remove Plastic Insulator
Remove Plastic Liner
Most car doors have a weather and sound insulator. This will expose the inner workings of the door; in this photo you can see the door lock manual control rod.
Step 7: Removing Connecting Rods
Disconnect Door Control Rods
There are three connecting rods that must be removed from the door lock assembly, the manual lock control rod, the door handle control rod and the exterior door lock assembly (outside the door).
Step 8: Remove Door Latch/Lock Mount Bolts
Remove Door Latch Mounting Bolts
Remove the mounting bolt from the door latch/lock assembly.
Step 9: Replace Door Latch/Lock Assembly
Remove Old Latch Assembly to Replace with New
After the door latch/lock mount bolts have been removed, release all electrical connectors and remove the control rods and insert onto new latch/lock assembly. Transfer control rods one at a time to avoid confusion. Most electrical connectors have a notch and only connect one way. After transfer of the control rods and electrical connectors reassemble door latch assembly. Note: before installing the door panel, test the latch and lock operation to insure proper installation.
Electrical Goes Dead When Engine is Cranked
Electricity is an elusive substance that can be easily interrupted by a bad connection or corrosion. When an engine is cranked over it demands a high amount of electricity (amperage) from the battery. As the electrical demand is increased heat will develop inside the wire or connection. This heat will disconnect (short circuit) the electrical flow until the connection cools. Since the battery provides the main electrical power to the remainder of the vehicle (lights, dash, interior) all electricity is shut off. Once the connection cools it can reconnect starting the process all over again. We have listed below some of the most common problems and repairs.
Car Repair Troubleshooting Information
Check Battery Cable Connection - The battery cable connection must be clean (free from corrosion) and tightly fastened to allow the flow of electricity from the battery to the starter. With the key in the off position locate the battery and inspect the battery cable connections. Battery cable connections must be tight and not wiggle on the battery terminal. If the cable is loose remove it and clean, then tighten the cable with a wrench or socket wrench. Use baking soda to neutralize any suspected acid residue before work begins.
Clean and Tighten Battery Cables
Check Battery Cable Corrosion - The battery cables are used to transfer electrical power from the battery to the starter. Battery acid causes corrosion inside the battery cable and will inhibiting electrical flow. To check for this condition look for bulges near the top of the cable, these bulges indicate corrosion expansion caused by the chemical reaction between the acid and copper wire. Remove the failed battery cable to replace with new unit, then check charging system to ensure proper operation.
Battery Corrosion
Inspect Battery for Bulging - The battery supplies electrical power to the vehicle, when a battery short circuits internally it can cause the car to lose power and gain it back again. Inspect the battery; if the sides are bulging it could have a warped plate that can short under certain conditions. This problem is rare but it does happen.
WARNING! Always wear protective eyewear, gloves and necessary clothing before inspection or work begins. Never crank an engine over when anyone is near the battery or engine. A battery is filled with explosive gasses that can ignite when extreme heat or a spark is present. A battery could have residual acid on the outside casing so use caution when handling a battery and the surrounding area. Use baking soda to neutralize any suspected acid residue before work begins.
If further assistance is needed, our certified car repair technicians are ready to answer your car questions. For manufacturer specific repair information visit - Car Repair Manual
Source-http://www.2carpros.com
