Pinpoint Test M: Hard To Open/Close Door From Either Door Handle

Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems

Pinpoint Test M: Hard To Open/Close Door From Either Door Handle

Normal Operation

The door latch can be actuated from the interior or exterior door handle. When actuated, the door latch releases and allows the door to open. If the door latch or the door hinges have insufficient lubrication or if the striker or door are misaligned, it causes extra force to be used when opening or closing the door.

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:

- Door alignment

- Door hinges

- Striker adjustment

- Door latch

PINPOINT TEST M : HARD TO OPEN/CLOSE DOOR FROM EITHER DOOR HANDLE

M1 CHECK THE LATCH OPERATION FROM BOTH DOOR HANDLES

- Open and close the door using both the interior and exterior door handles.

Does the door open normally from one of the door handles?

Yes
If the door is difficult/does not open from the exterior door handle, GO to Pinpoint Test N. Pinpoint Test N: A Door Is Difficult/Does Not Open From The Exterior Door Handle

If the door is difficult/does not open from the interior door handle, GO to Pinpoint Test O. Pinpoint Test O: A Door Is Difficult/Does Not Open From The Interior Door Handle

No
If the door does not operate correctly from both door handles, GO to M2.

M2 CHECK THE LATCH OPERATION

- Open the door.

- Using a screwdriver, fully close the latch (2 clicks).





- Verify that the latch releases easily while pulling on the interior/exterior door handle.

Does the latch release easily?

Yes
GO to M4.

No
GO to M3.

M3 CHECK THE LATCH OPERATION AFTER LUBRICATION

- Lubricate the door latch. Refer to Latch Lubrication Service and Repair.

- Using a screwdriver, fully close the latch (2 clicks).





- Verify that the latch releases easily while pulling on the interior/exterior door handle.

Does the latch release easily?

Yes
The concern was caused by an insufficiently lubricated door latch.

No
INSTALL a new door latch. REFER to Front Door Latch Front Door Latch or Door Latch - Side and Rear, Single Latch Door Latch - Side and Rear, Single Latch. TEST the system for normal operation.

M4 CHECK THE STRIKER ADJUSTMENT

- Check the adjustment of the striker.

Is the striker adjusted correctly?

Yes
GO to M5.

No
ADJUST the striker as necessary. TEST the system for normal operation.

M5 CHECK THE DOOR ALIGNMENT

- Check the alignment of the door.

Is the door aligned correctly?

Yes
LUBRICATE the door hinges. TEST the system for normal operation.

No
ADJUST the door as necessary. TEST the system for normal operation.