Pinpoint Test D: The Exterior Door Release Handle Sticks
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2021 Ford F-150. 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
- Binding linkage
- Broken handle return spring
- Door latch
- D1 CHECK FOR A BROKEN RETURN SPRING
- Remove the window regulator and motor. REFER to: Front Door Window Regulator and Motor - Vehicles With: Front Power Windows . REFER to: Front Door Window Regulator - Vehicles With: Front Manual Windows . REFER to: Rear Door Window Regulator and Motor - SuperCab, Vehicles With: Rear Power Windows . REFER to: Rear Door Window Regulator and Motor - SuperCrew, Vehicles With: Rear Power Windows .
- Install the exterior door handle strap back onto the exterior door handle reinforcement.
- 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 reinforcement. REFER to: Exterior Front Door Handle Reinforcement . REFER to: Exterior Rear Door Handle Reinforcement - SuperCrew . - D2 CHECK THE EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLE AND LINKAGE OPERATION
- Operate the exterior door handle while observing the linkage.
Are any of the exterior door handle components or linkages binding?
Yes REPAIR as necessary. No INSTALL a new door latch. REFER to: Front Door Latch . REFER to: Rear Door Lower Latch - SuperCab . REFER to: Rear Door Upper Latch - SuperCab . REFER to: Rear Door Latch - SuperCrew .