How To Fix a Car Door Handle: A Comprehensive Guide

Car doors are paramount for the safety of the car. A car door helps protect the passengers inside by keeping them inside the car. A missing or damaged car door may lead to serious repercussions.

Therefore, it is imperative to fix it as soon as possible. After all, a stitch on time saves nine. Here we’re going to shed light on “how to fix a car door handle without having to pay for a mechanic.”

How to Fix a Car Door Handle: The Step-By-Step Guide

Car door handles are notorious for being damaged over time. Many times, car owners face challenges while opening the door. Going to a professional for the repair is a wise decision if you have time constraints.

Doing the process at home with the right equipment is an alternative that people choose. A systematic guide makes the fixing process easier and convenient.

So, let’s get started.

Tools You Would Need

• Screwdrivers: They are an absolute must because car doors have screws that you would require to remove. You will also need a rubber mallet to re-attach the door panel.
• New Handle: Depending on your car type and model, purchase the right handle that you are going to fix.
• Masking Tape: Fixing a car door handle can be a little tricky, especially if you are a beginner. So, take the help of masking tape to know the pieces to be fixed in the parts.
• Towel:  Some Screws are small in size, and chances of losing those screws increase during the disassembling and reassembling process. So, use a towel to collect the screws safely in one place.

To keep up with, “how to fix a car door handle,” you ought to have the above things before commencing the disassembling.

SEE MORE:

• Opening a Frozen Car Door: The Easy Way
• Pro Tips to Survive a Submerging Car

STEP 1: Get the Replacement Handle

Car handles aren’t universal and can be used for all cars. Different handles are manufactured for various car models. 

The first you need to do is get the right car handle. Visit a car dealer or seller to get the handle similar to your car.

Cars come with different locking systems. So, get information about the installation of fasteners. It will help you get an idea if a handle needs to be removed from the inner side or external.

STEP 2: Remove the Inside Door Panel

An inspection is necessary to identify the fasteners. Some plastic caps may be protecting them, so remove those caps. Spread the towel in a clean place and take the screws one by one on the towel.

After unscrewing a fastener, use the masking tape for the labeling. Be gentle when taking the panel out because plastic tends to become brittle over the long haul.

Tip: Take pictures of the panel to make the reassembling easy.

STEP 3: Disconnect the Mechanisms

After you have removed the inside door panel of your car, you will notice mechanisms attached to the handle.

Carefully disconnect all the mechanisms and label all of them to avoid any confusion later. A manual on how to fix a car door handle can also help lessen the work. 

If you have the manual for the car door handle, fixing the car door becomes like a leisurely walk in the park.

STEP 4: Replace the Handle

This process needs careful attention because a single screw can have an impact on the locking function. Firstly, clean the interior, including the edges of the panel.

Now, put the replacement handle in its place and assemble the mechanisms. If you have any confusion about the direction, look at the pictures you have taken.

STEP 5: Check the Door Functionality

Before reassembling the car door panel, you need to make sure the working of the new mechanism works.

Finding faulty or loose connections after the reassembling gives a feeling of despair. So, to avoid such instances, check several times whether locks and latch are functioning appropriately.

Oftentimes, we tend to be so involved in the repair process that we skip the other parts. Careful consideration of the exterior saves a significant number of efforts. Test the working of the latch with the door handle.

STEP 6: Reassemble the Car Door Panel 

Lastly, after testing the handle, connect the replacement handle properly. When reassembling the interior panel of the car door, use a towel to put the things in the right place.

As per model of your car, tighten the screws or plastic clippings. In order to save your car interior, try to make use of a towel for the impact of a rubber mallet. Don’t forget to take some maintenance tips from the experts before doing it yourself.

FAQs

• Can weather affect my car handle’s functionality?

Extreme weather conditions can impact your car door handle’s performance. In cold climates, ice can form inside the mechanism, preventing movement, while in hot climates, plastic components may warp or degrade faster.

Regular maintenance, including lubrication and checking for damage, can mitigate these effects.

• Is it possible to upgrade my car door handles during replacement?

When replacing a car door handle, you have the option to upgrade to a handle with better materials or enhanced features, such as keyless entry sensors, provided the new handle is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model.

It’s an opportunity to not only fix but also improve your car’s functionality and aesthetics.

• Can fixing a car door handle impact the vehicle’s security?

If the repair is not done correctly, especially with exterior handles, it might compromise the door’s locking mechanism, making it easier to break into.

Ensure repairs are performed accurately, and consider professional assistance for complex mechanisms to maintain vehicle security.

• How do I prevent paint damage when replacing an exterior car door handle?

Preventing paint damage requires careful handling and protection of the surrounding area. Use masking tape around the edges of the handle area to protect the paint.

Employing plastic pry tools rather than metal screwdrivers for any leverage can also minimize the risk of scratches or chips.

• What’s the importance of lubrication in maintaining car door handles?

Regular lubrication of the car door handle mechanism with appropriate products can significantly extend its life and ensure smooth operation.

It helps reduce friction, prevent rust, and keep moving parts from sticking or seizing, especially in varying weather conditions.

• Are there any legal considerations when modifying car door handles?

In some jurisdictions, modifying your car, including the door handles, can have legal implications, especially if the modifications affect the vehicle’s safety or security features.

It’s advisable to check local regulations before undertaking modifications that significantly alter the original design or functionality.

• How can I diagnose electronic issues in power-operated door handles?

Diagnosing electronic issues in power-operated door handles typically involves using a multimeter to check for continuity and voltage supply to the handle.

It may also require scanning the vehicle’s computer system for error codes that could indicate specific malfunctions within the electronic handle system.

Check out this video from Scotty Kilmer to learn how to fix broken car door handle for $10!

Final Words

Driving a car without proper car doors or damaged parts is highly discouraged.

Replacing a damaged car handle is easy if you follow the guide on how to fix a car door handle without shedding off a bagful of money. Consider the above process and put your mind at ease.