What is the reason why the right car door cannot be opened from the inside but can be opened from the outside?
3 Answers
Reasons why the right car door cannot be opened from the inside but can be opened from the outside: Child lock engaged: You can check if the child lock is engaged. The function of the car child lock is to prevent active and unaware children from opening the door while the car is moving, thereby avoiding danger. In this case, the door can only be opened from the outside by an adult after the car has stopped. If the rear door cannot be opened from the inside but can be opened from the outside, it is very likely that the child lock is in effect. This happens when the rear passengers trigger the safety mechanism while getting in or out of the car. Simply reset it to resolve the issue. Inner handle linkage rod detached: It could also be that the linkage rod of the inner handle has detached. Reattaching it will restore normal function. Linkage rod cracked: If the hole in the inner handle where the linkage rod connects is cracked, replacing it will solve the problem.
I've encountered this issue several times, especially when the right door can't be opened from inside but works fine outside. The most common cause is the child lock being engaged. The child lock is a small switch, usually located along the door edge. Open the right door and look for a small lever or rotary knob on the side or bottom – if it's in the locked position, the interior handle will be deactivated. This design prevents children from accidentally opening doors while moving. Some models integrate child lock control into the central locking system, requiring you to check buttons near the steering wheel. If the child lock isn't the issue, it might be a problem with the internal handle mechanism – like a disconnected linkage or jammed component causing unresponsiveness when pulling. I once discovered this situation when driving with friends; gently tapping the door or repeatedly pulling the handle sometimes loosens it. If that doesn't work, the handle might be broken or there could be poor electrical contact (for power doors, possibly a faulty control module). Always check the child lock first. If you can't locate it or are unsure, visit a repair shop immediately to avoid compromising driving safety. Regularly cleaning door gaps can also prevent similar issues.
The right door can't be opened from the inside but works fine from the outside. I suspect it's mostly a mechanical failure of the door lock. For example, the internal linkage may have come loose or deformed, preventing it from triggering the latch when pulled; or the spring near the handle might be stuck, requiring disassembly for adjustment. It's also common for the child lock to be left on—check for a small switch on the side of the door and try unlocking it. Additionally, oxidized or poorly connected wiring can cause issues, especially in humid weather. Back when I drove an older car, I often encountered this problem in winter. A mechanic once suggested doing a quick self-check: try opening the window and assisting the inner pull from the outside while listening for unusual noises. Regular door maintenance, including lubrication with anti-rust oil, can keep the mechanism smooth and prevent minor issues from escalating. I recommend addressing this soon to avoid being trapped in an emergency.
