Pinpoint Test D : The Exterior Door Release Handle Sticks
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Ford EcoSport. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Normal Operation and Fault Conditions
The exterior door handle is connected to the door latch with an actuating cable. When the exterior door handle is pulled, the actuating cable pulls on the latch lever. When the latch lever moves, the door latch releases, allowing the door to open. The handle has a return spring to make sure the handle returns to a closed position.
Possible Sources
- Broken or binding cable/linkage
- Broken handle return spring
- Door latch
- D1 CHECK FOR A BROKEN RETURN SPRING
- Remove the door trim panel.
- For a front door trim panel, REFER to: Front Door Trim Panel .
- For a rear door trim panel, REFER to: Rear Door Trim Panel .
- Disconnect the exterior door handle actuating cable from the door latch.
- Pull and release the exterior door handle.
Does the exterior door handle return to a closed position once released?
Yes GO to D2 No INSTALL a new exterior door handle.* For a front door handle, REFER to: Exterior Front Door Handle . * For a rear door handle, REFER to: Exterior Rear Door Handle . - Remove the door trim panel.
- D2 CHECK THE EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLE AND CABLE/LINKAGE OPERATION
- Operate the exterior door handle while observing the cable/linkage.
Are any of the exterior door handle components or cable/linkages binding?
Yes REPAIR as necessary. No INSTALL a new door latch.* For a front door latch, REFER to: Front Door Latch . * For a rear door latch, REFER to: Rear Door Latch .