Why Can't the Car Door Close When Frozen in Winter?
2 Answers
In winter, low temperatures may cause water to enter the lock mechanism or door seals, which then freezes and causes the issue. Below are some winter car washing tips: Where to Wash: It's best to go to a car wash with high-pressure air blowers to remove as much water as possible. Avoid places that only rinse the car or washing it yourself in extremely cold areas. A heated garage is also a good option. If no other options are available, try to dry the lock and door latch areas thoroughly. Precautions: If the car door is frozen and won't close, avoid using brute force to pull it open, as this can damage the paint and seals, and even break the door handle. Instead, use a smarter approach.
As a long-time car enthusiast, I often encounter the annoying issue of frozen car doors that won’t close in winter. This usually happens because water gets into the door seals or lock gaps and freezes into ice overnight, blocking the door’s movement. Especially after parking in rain or snow without drying, water seeps in and freezes solid. The solution is quite simple: carry a small spray bottle filled with warm water and gently spray it on the frozen spots to melt the ice—but avoid using boiling water to prevent rubber damage. Alternatively, you can buy a de-icing spray. For prevention, I apply a layer of anti-freeze lubricant to the door rubber before winter and choose elevated parking spots to avoid water accumulation. A safety tip: never force a frozen door shut, as it may deform the door or damage the hinges, compromising driving safety. Regularly check the door seals and ensure gaps are dried promptly after rain.
