Driver side door not closing

ANDYRANGO

MEMBER
2012 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT
27,000 MILES

Hi, I watched your tutorial video on "How to fix a door not closing" and it makes sense. However, when I apply the instructions (open handle and at the same time move the latch with screwdriver) just won't work on my latch because it's really stuck. It won't budge, it just won't move. I'm being quoted $500.00 to fix this, would there be a chance to fix it myself instead of shelling the $500.00? Thanks!

Thursday, March 7th, 2019 AT 2:42 PM

3 Replies

CJ MEDEVAC

MECHANIC
11,005 POSTS

I'll give it a shot.

Spray the latch with WD-40 or any other type penetrating oil.

With the screwdriver, work it back and forth (the right way as well as the wrong way)

Try the other handle when you attempt to open the "grasshopper jaws" with the screwdriver.

Should this be a rear door,

If equipped,

Insure the child safety switch (on the end of the door) is disengaged.

Let us know how it goes.

The Medic

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Thursday, March 7th, 2019 AT 6:35 PM

ANDYRANGO

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Hi, thank you for your reply, and yes it worked! I saturated it with WD-40 and then jiggled it and it finally moved and now the door closes. Fixed! Thanks!

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Friday, March 8th, 2019 AT 2:12 PM

CJ MEDEVAC

MECHANIC
11,005 POSTS

Incrediwonderful!

I was really hoping that you did not return telling me that it had been previously slammed a thousand times and the latch was damaged.

Duct tape and WD-40 - permanent trunk items!

So,

Looks like you can buy me lunch! LOL!

You be sure to come back and see us, tell your buddies too!

Maybe you'll have come to your senses and have purchased a 1976-1986 Jeep CJ (or older). I like working on them!

Regardless, come back to see us!

The Medic

Image (Click to make bigger)