What Causes the Creaking Sound When Opening the Car Door?
2 Answers
The creaking sound when opening the car door is caused by aging door seals; loose door glass; or loose screws in the window regulator. Solution for loose window regulator screws: Tighten the regulator screws. If the window regulator is stuck, the possible causes include deformed or damaged window channels, loose regulator screws, misaligned guide rails, or a damaged regulator. The repair methods mainly involve cleaning or replacing the window channels, or loosening the glass mounting screws to adjust the glass position. Solution for aging door seals: For aging door seals, the best solution is to replace them. You can have them replaced at the vehicle's authorized 4S dealership or purchase the seals and specialized adhesive to replace them yourself. You can also use seal-specific maintenance wax to care for and restore the seals. Over time, door seals harden and lose their soft elasticity, causing friction and noise when the door is closed.
You asked me about the creaking sound when opening the car door, and I've experienced it with my old car. The noise mostly comes from the door hinges, where dust accumulates or rust forms, especially after rain when moisture accelerates corrosion. The door check strap is another common source—it controls the opening angle, and when worn, it can produce friction sounds. Alternatively, aging or cracked weatherstripping rubbing against the door frame can also cause noise. I once tried spraying WD-40 lubricant on the hinges and check strap area, and the noise reduced immediately. For routine maintenance, wiping off dust regularly helps prevent long-term neglect, which could accelerate part wear. Safety-wise, although the creaking seems minor, ignoring it might lead to door jamming or sudden closing, affecting safe operation. It’s best to inspect periodically to prevent issues proactively.
