Third Door Hard to Open and/or Handle Breakage (Adjust Lock Rods)

Some customers may comment that the third door is hard to open and/or the door handle may be broken.

The lock rods may be improperly adjusted.

Adjust the lock rods using the following procedure:

1. Remove the door trim.
2. Release both lock rod rods from the lock rod retainers.



3. Position the upper lock rod first. Refer to arrow in illustration. Position the lock rod in the retainer so that there is 10 to 12 mm (0.39 to 0.47 in) (Approximately 11-12 threads showing) from the end of the lock rod.

Important: Make sure the upper striker is not bound against the latch. If this happens, you must push the door inboard to release the latch. To correct a bound latch, adjust the striker until the striker is centered with the latch.

4. Position the lower lock rod in the retainer where it rests, usually 5.0 to 6 mm (0.19 to 0.23 in) of threads from the end of the rod after the upper lock rod is locked in place.
5. Install the door trim.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: