Before taking anything apart, it's best to narrow down which entry methods do or do not work and how many doors are affected.
First, test that your key fob is working properly by remotely locking and unlocking your vehicle. It could be that your key has simply run out of battery and is no longer responsive.
Second, test your key manually in the door's key slot. If this does not open the door, the lock assembly may be jammed or broken.
Finally, test the door handles on both sides of the affected doors. It may be that the outside handle does not work while the inner door handle opens just fine, or vice versa. Gaining access to the interior handles may require you to enter your car through one of the passenger doors. If one handle works while the other doesn't, you are likely experiencing a broken connection somewhere in the door assembly.
A stuck car door can come down to four possible causes:
1. Rust, Dirt, & Grime
Over time, exposure to moisture and road debris can wear down parts of your door lock assembly. Dirt and grime may cause blockages in the keyhole or other inner components that need to be cleared away. Additionally, rust formation from excess moisture may corrode metal parts of the door latch assembly and cause them to get stuck in place.
2. Disconnected Cables or Rods
If the door doesn't open when you pull on the door handle, there may be a broken connection somewhere in the door lock assembly. A door lock assembly consists of multiple cables, rods, and fasteners that connect the locking mechanism to the interior and exterior door handles. If one of these connectors breaks or becomes loose, one of the door handles may be inoperable. A loose door handle may be an indication that one of its components has come loose.
3. Structural Damage
While structural damage is common after an automobile collision, repeated door slamming may also cause similar damage. Heavy impacts can warp or damage parts of the door assembly, including the lock itself, metal connecting rods, or the door latch. Depending on the extent of the structural damage, the solution may require replacement parts and a professional mechanic's help.
4. Frozen Latch
When winter temperatures dip below freezing, moisture inside the lock assembly can cause parts of the latch to freeze in place. If this is the case, start by thawing out the latch with a hairdryer or space heater. Alternatively, try using WD-40 to blast away any ice buildup in the locking mechanism.
How to Open or Close a Stuck Car Door
As a short-term solution to getting your car door unstuck, try the following steps to either open or close your stuck car door. With the door open, inspect the latch to determine if any replacement parts are needed. Keep in mind that driving with a broken door is not advisable, as the door may open unexpectedly while driving or may not open at all in the event of a collision.
Car Door Won't Close
A car door that won't close may mean your door's latch got stuck in the lock position while the door was open. This problem is usually easy to solve as an open door gives you full access to the door panel.
For a short-term solution, you can manipulate the door latch manually so that it catches on the door:
- Find the opening or gap toward the edge of your car door where the latch resides.
- Insert any kind of sturdy, thin tool (such as a key or coat hanger) into the gap.
- Push the tool in an upward direction to reset the latch. You may need to simultaneously pull the door handle if the latch does not reset the first time.
- Close the door.
Car Door Won't Open
A closed car door that is stuck in the lock position is not as easy to deal with since diagnosing the problem likely requires opening the door panel. Before trying to fix the issue, attempt to get the door open by all available methods, such as a key fob remote, manual key entry, and the interior lock and handle. If the door still will not open and you're an experienced at-home mechanic, you may try the following steps. Otherwise, call or visit your nearest Nissan experts for help!
- Gain access to the interior of the stuck door through one of the other doors.
- Search for any broken parts or disconnected rods within the door lock assembly.
- Manipulate the door lock, metal rods, and any other movable assembly parts within reach that might lead to opening the door.
- With the door open, fully remove the door panel to repair the broken connections.
How to Fix a Stuck Car Door Latch
If you manage to open or close your stuck car door temporarily, you'll want to seek a permanent solution as soon as possible. Driving with an inoperable door isn't only extremely inconvenient, but it can also be dangerous. Here are some common solutions to fix a stuck car door latch:
1. Clean & Lubricate
If the keyhole or lock assembly is blocked with debris or the key itself is sticking in the lock, clean and lubricate the door lock assembly. If there is significant rust and grime buildup, use WD-40 to help clear it away. Stick the nozzle into the keyhole and apply the WD-40 until it starts running out of the keyhole.
Once the debris is cleared, apply a dry lubricant through the keyhole to keep the parts moving smoothly. Avoid using any greasy oils, as this will attract dirt and grime. If you have removed the door panel, it may be worth repeating this process on any other assembly parts affected by rust or debris.
2. Repair the Broken Connections
To repair any broken lock assembly parts, start by opening the door panel. Fixing broken lock assembly connections typically requires reattaching any disconnected metal rods to their plastic fasteners or replacing them if necessary. Keep in mind that you will need specialized adhesives to bind different materials such as metal and plastic. If youre unsure how the door assembly works or which parts should be connected, it is best to seek the help of an automotive professional.
3. Replace Door Lock Assembly
Broken lock assembly connections may be able to be repaired. However, if the door lock assembly has been broken or damaged, it's best to replace the entire door lock assembly. Start by removing the interior door panel to access the bolts and remove the old lock assembly. Replace the lock assembly, and ensure any connecting components like rods and cables are intact. Ensure the new lock is functioning before replacing the interior door panel.
Repair Your Stuck Door With Genuine Nissan Parts
Whether you're repairing door latch components or replacing your Nissan's door lock assembly, ensure everything is the right fit for your Nissan model, year, and trim by purchasing genuine replacement parts from Nissan Parts. Shop online now, and locate your nearest authorized Nissan service center for professional help with your Nissan repairs.