Pinpoint Test Q: A Door Is Difficult/Does Not Open From The Exterior Door Handle
Locks, Latches and Entry Systems
Pinpoint Tests
Pinpoint Test Q: A Door Is Difficult/Does Not Open From The Exterior Door Handle
Normal Operation
The exterior door handle is connected to the door latch with an actuating rod. When the exterior door handle is pulled it causes the actuating rod to push down on the latch lever. When the latch lever is moved, the door latch releases, allowing the door to open.
This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:
- Broken or binding linkage
- Exterior door handle reinforcement
- Door latch
PINPOINT TEST Q: A DOOR IS DIFFICULT/DOES NOT OPEN FROM THE EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLE
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Q1 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 only the exterior door handle, GO to Q2.
No
If the door does not operate correctly from both door handles, Go To Pinpoint Test P. Pinpoint Test P: Hard To Open/Close Door From Either Door Handle
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Q2 CHECK THE EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLE REINFORCEMENT
- Remove the door trim panel.
- Open the clip and disconnect the exterior door handle actuating rod.
- Pull and release the exterior door handle.
- Does the exterior door handle operate correctly?
Yes
GO to Q3.
No
INSTALL a new exterior door handle reinforcement. REFER to Door Handle Reinforcement - Exterior, Front Door Handle Reinforcement - Exterior, Front or Door Handle Reinforcement - Exterior, Rear Door Handle Reinforcement - Exterior, Rear. TEST the system for normal operation.
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Q3 CHECK THE EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLE AND LINKAGE OPERATION
- Operate the exterior door handle while observing the linkage.
- Are any of the exterior door handle components or linkages binding or broken?
Yes
REPAIR as necessary. TEST the system for normal operation.
No
INSTALL a new door latch. REFER to Front Door Latch Front Door Latch or Rear Door Latch Rear Door Latch. TEST the system for normal operation.
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