What are the reasons for a car door not closing?
2 Answers
Possible causes include: displacement of the door hinge or latch; the door lock tongue cannot reverse and latch properly; issues with the door lock contact switch; or insufficient height of the contact installation. There are three main types of car doors: 1. Front-hinged doors: These can still be closed with the pressure of airflow while the car is moving, making them safer and more convenient for drivers to observe backward when reversing. 2. Rear-hinged doors: If not closed tightly while driving, they may be pushed open by oncoming airflow. These are generally used to improve ease of entry and exit or for ceremonial purposes. 3. Sliding doors: These are widely applicable, with the advantage of being able to open fully even when the side of the car is close to obstacles.
I've seen doors that won't close many times. The most common issue is a faulty or stuck locking mechanism—like a rusted latch or broken internal spring, preventing the door from locking. Another reason is hinge problems, such as severe rust or wear, causing the door not to return to position, especially common in older cars. There's also the case where something is blocking the door gap, like a seatbelt getting tangled or a child's toy stuck inside, requiring cleaning. I've even encountered doors frozen shut in winter or door frames warped in summer heat. When checking, listen to the closing sound: if it clunks but doesn't lock, it's likely a lock issue; if it's silent, it might be hinges or deformation. Safety is critical—don't drive at high speeds if the door won't close; head to a repair shop immediately for inspection.
