door handle help

[fogcity]

Out of the blue my outside door handle won't work on the driver's door. I can lock and unlock it with the key but can't open it other than from the inside. It feels like I'm not getting the full range when I squeeze the lever. Is this a common thing / easy fix? Should I look for something specific when I remove the door pannel? If this is common, what part do I need to replace?

Thanks for any help.

[vash]

fog, you need to do a simple adjustment that is all. the problem is that you need to get to the lock mechanism, and that isnt that much fun. funny thing is that i just friggen deleted all my images FIVE MINUTES ago, concerning that project. i will try to do a search for you. bell and i both put up threads about this. if you need help, i am local.

cliff

edit: found it!

NEED HELP big time! door lock.

[fogcity]

Cliff - many thanks! The problem with my door isn't related to the lock, only the trigger. However, I'm sure your idea about a general adjustment will fix things up. I'll assume (and we all know what that means) that it will become clear once I remove the handle mechanism what needs tweeking.

[thastings]

Is the handle loose? Try pushing in on the handle as you pull the trigger. If that works then the handle needs to be tightened.
Terry

[Paulporsche]

Until you get it fixed, try holding the key in the unlocked position w/some pressure w/ one hand and open the door w/ the trigger using your other hand.

[vash]

sorry, i meant trigger mech. your door is EXACTLY how mine was behaving. once out, it was a piece of cake. very messy tho.

[DG624]

I had a problem with the door opening. It got worse until it would not work. Had to take the lock off and lubricate it and replace the internal spring for the door latch. The problem was the weather strip along the glass was leaking water into the door. If there is a gap at the end of the window where it meets the window frame the weather strip should be replaced. Very easy to do but you must do this to prevent further problems. The door panel is a problem if you don't have the hex head sockets. These sockets will save you many hours of trying to turn the bolts. Mine works fine now. Also look at the internal rubber window guide (which can also rust) while you are in there. If you car is over 15 years old you should get both weather strip and window guide parts that fit into the door. Not expensive but really helps the car.

[jfpound]

Seems there is a number of things that can make the door handle not work. Your problem sounds like the one I had when I found that the trigger was broken. I made a new one after finding you can't buy it.
Check out this thread:
Broken door handle lever
Here's a pic of the broken trigger and new trigger installed. If this is your problem let me know, I'm getting quotes now on having some triggers made, don't know what the price will be yet but certainly better than a new handle.

[fogcity]

Thanks, guys.