0
How do you fix a car door handle that opens from the outside but not the inside?
Wiki User
∙ 14y ago
It is likely you do not need any new parts. Follow the directions below until you get to the note about the "Lever" (the threaded rod). Turn the adjuster out a few rotations and your door should open like new.
ReplacementI just replaced my 1994 Buick Regal exterior door handle (same one) with an aftermarket one for $47 I found online. I should have taken pictures, but it really was not hard to replace.
Tools I used: Adjustable wrench (I'm sure you could use a socket wrench) T20 Torx screwdriver Philip and flathead screwdriver
Open the car door, and using your adjustable wrench or socket wrench, remove the two black caps (screws?) with big rounded tops from the top of the door by turning them counter clockwise.
Use your Philips screwdriver to remove the screw from the bottom of the piece of door covering the handle apparatus.
There is another screw inside that with a Philips head that needs to be unscrewed that is keeping the door handle in place, just below the lock and toward the outer edge of the door.
You are almost done removing the door handle, all that needs to be done is separating the exterior door handle from the interior parts. This is done in two places:
1) There is a metal piece with screw threads on the end, and a rounded part that is on the threads. This rounded part connects to the door handle through a hole, with a metal covering to keep it in place. We are going to call this the "Lever" from now on. Using the flat side of your screwdriver, gently lift and loosen the covering from the old door handle so you can remove the Lever from the hole.
Note: If your door handle opens too easily, screw the round part down a little further on the threads, and if you can't open the door, the round part needs to come up a little on the threads.
2) Using your T20 Torx screwdriver, remove the screw just below and medial to the door lock.
Remove the old door handle, taking care to separate the door lock from the handle without pulling on the wiring.
PUTTING THE NEW PART ON1) Slide the new part into the door so it fits just right. 2) Attach the top big black cap (screws to the top part of the door handle using your socket wrench or adjustable wrench. This will hold the handle in place better for the rest of the attachment. 3) Replace the Philips head screw used to tighten the handle to the door. This is the one located just lateral and inferior to the door lock. 4) Put the key lock in its place, and replace the Torx screw to tighten it in place. 5) Use your flathead to lift up the tab on the part of the door handle where the Lever will go and slide it out a bit. Insert the round part of the lever into the hole, and tighten the covering, making sure the latch goes back into the hole you slid it out of.
TEST THE DOOR. If it does not open when you pull on the handle, follow the part for removing the lever and adjust the round piece higher up. If it opens too easily, adjust it lower down. TEST THE DOOR. Repeat until you get it just right.
Place the door handle cover in place, and screw the big black cap into place, followed by the Philips screw that should be remaining at the bottom of the cover.
Your door handle should be replaced and working great! I just did this to my door this morning, and fixed the passenger side door (which would only open when we yanked it really hard). Both open easily now!
Wiki User
∙ 12y ago
Wiki User
∙ 14y agoThe most likely culprit is that the plastic retainer that holds the long metal rod that goes between the latch mechanism and the inside door handle has broken, and the rod is no longer connected. These plastic retainers are readily available at most auto parts stores. You'll need to remove the door panel (including the "hidden" screws sometimes found behind plugs in the arm rest/ door pull), and locate which end of the metal rod is out of its place (usually its the end attached to the inside handle, but sometimes its the one attached to the latch). Attach the replacement retainer clip in the hole in the door handle (or door latch), insert the metal rod through the holes, and snap the retainer in place on the metal rod. Test your work, then reassemble the door panel.
Wiki User
∙ 15y agoyou fix it....
Add your answer:
Earn +20 pts
What do you do if the Tribute 2001 driver door only opens from outside?
The problem is that the inside door handle is broken. Although the inside door handle needs replacement you can still open the door by pulling on the lock lever above the handle.
Your 93 Corsica you can open doors from inside but not from outside?
If the door on a 1993 Corsica opens from the inside and not the outside, one issue is likely the problem. The linkage connecting the outside door handle is disconnected or broken. It is also possible that the door lock is faulty.
Door sweep are installed on inside or outside of the door?
Depends if the door opens outwards or inwards. (Inwards go on inside, outwards on outside).
How do you replace a door handle on a Ford Fiesta?
You will need to remove the inside door panel of your Mustang. Remove the linkage from the outside door handle. Remove the outside door handle retaining bolts. Reverse the process to install the new outside door handle.
How do you remove a 1965 Chevelle door handle?
take inside door panel off and unbolt outside door handle from the inside.
How do you install door handle 2007 Buick Rendezvous?
Inside handle, outside handle, sliding door handle?
How do you replace passenger side door handle on 2010 F-150?
Inside door handle or outside door handle?
Both front doors will not unlock with key outside also not open from the outside even though they are unlocked Someone has to pull on the inside handle while another person opens from outside?
The rod on the door handle has an adjustment. Remove the door handle and adjust the rod so it pushes the locking device further.
The door handle on your 1995 Ford Aerostar works inside but not on the outside how can you fix this?
the door on my 94 aerostar only opens from the outside and only if you hold the lock button up on the inside while you pull the handle. it is a pain it the but. i am going to take it apart this weekend and maybe i can help you next week. it is probably just a hook or latch that came off inside the door.
How do you fix the inside and outside door handle on a 1994 Toyota Camry when you cannot get the door open?
= outside door handle on a 1997 Toyota Camry. =
How do you replace the drivers door handle on a 2001 suburban?
Need to know if it is an inside or outside door handle.
How do you replace a door handle on 98 Chevy blazer?
Need to know inside or outside door handle.
