Door not closing, Door latch is not grabbing post Options

[Deusexmachina77]

My driver-side door stopped working.

I've checked alignment, and that doesn't seem to be the issue. When I compare it to the passenger-side door, the latch mechanism doesn't have the same tension as the passenger-side. I'm not sure how to describe it other than it has lost its oomph. It moves, but it is soft and has no tension.

I can close the door, but it doesn't catch all the way. Another shove secures it.

Is it as simple as needing some lubrication? Or is there a spring that broke? I haven't taken it apart yet. I'm trying to avoid a search-and-destroy mission and get guidance before disassembling.

Thanks,
Victor

[87m491]

You can activate the door latch without closing the door. Simply move the pawl in the direction of it closing. Compare it's movement, catch and release, to the other doors mechanism. 50 year old lubricants can literally gum up the works. Removal of the unit means getting inside the door but then you can remove the mechanism and clean it all up, check for broken bits, relube and reinstall.

My driver-side door stopped working.

I've checked alignment, and that doesn't seem to be the issue. When I compare it to the passenger-side door, the latch mechanism doesn't have the same tension as the passenger-side. I'm not sure how to describe it other than it has lost its oomph. It moves, but it is soft and has no tension.

I can close the door, but it doesn't catch all the way. Another shove secures it.

Is it as simple as needing some lubrication? Or is there a spring that broke? I haven't taken it apart yet. I'm trying to avoid a search-and-destroy mission and get guidance before disassembling.

Thanks,
Victor