Striker Adjustment Using Clay or Caulk

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Buick Regal and 2003 Buick Century. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: The door must be properly aligned before adjusting the striker.

Open the door.
Loosen the door striker screws just enough to allow movement of the door striker.
Adjust the door striker up or down and inboard or outboard as required.

Fig 1: Adjusting Door Lock Striker

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Apply modeling clay or body caulking compound to the door lock opening.
IMPORTANT: Do not close the door all the way.
Close the door far enough for the striker to make an impression into the modeling clay or body caulking compound.
Open the door and check the door striker impression in the modeling clay or body caulking compound.
NOTE: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.
Readjust door striker as required.
Add or remove spacers as needed.

Tighten

Tighten the door striker screws to 25 N.m (18 lb ft).
Close the door.