The doors of almost every high-mileage car close poorly due to wear on the hinges. Their locks simply fall down relative to the latch pin and do not engage it. As a result, you need to hit the door hard and also lift it by the handle. There are two ways to solve this problem without replacing worn parts, each of which will allow you to align the doors in just a minute.
Method 1. Installing a washer under the bottom hinge
For the first method, you will need to unscrew the bolt or bolts holding the bottom door hinge. Since they have not been removed for many years, they will rotate with force on the stuck thread. To avoid tearing off their edges, you should use a socket or socket wrench.
Before removing the bolts, you need to open the door completely and rest your knee under its corner from below so that it does not move. After unscrewing the bolt on the hinge, you should place a washer under it.
If the hinge is secured with several bolts, then you will need to install washers opposite each of them. This insert will compensate for wear on the hinge.
After this, the lock will fall exactly onto the latch.
If the doors do not rise enough, then you need to find a thicker washer or use the following method.
Method 2. Deformation of the lower loop
For the second method, you will need an M10-M14 bolt. It is wrapped in the center with electrical tape so as not to damage the paint.
Next, the bolt is placed in the area of the lower hinge and clamped by the door.
When closing it with such a lining, the loop will begin to bend, thereby changing its angle. You need to apply a little pressure and stop periodically to check the connection between the lock and the latch. The main thing is not to bend the loop more than required.
The second method can be used instead of the first or as an addition to it if installing a washer under the hinge turned out to be an insufficient measure. The main thing is to wrap the bolt well with electrical tape, and then the paint will not be scratched when bent.
To do final maintenance on a raised door, you should also lubricate the door stop. This will eliminate the characteristic squeak. The limiter must be wiped clean of old grease and dust adhering to it. It is rubbed on top with moistened hard soap. After drying, its surface will remain slippery, so it will no longer hold together. Dry soap, unlike oil, does not collect dust, which makes its effect longer.
