 | Richard Smith has been in the Auto Body Industry for 26 years. He is ASE Certified Master Collision Tech, an I-Car Platinum Tech, and an I-Car Instructor. He and His wife own and operate Sharp's Auto Body & Collision Inc. located at 202 North Elm St. in Pittsburg, Kansas. He is a father of 5 children, Ex Military E-6 Staff SGT. and is active in his home Church. The one thing he enjoys doing is educating the public about the safety and proper repair of automobiles, no matter if it is a vehicle that has been in a collision, a small dent, or a complete restoration. The shop is always equipped with a skilled professional to handle your auto needs. |
Automotive Service & Repair
2013-03-25 15:54:07
Should I have my car door repaired?
Q-Long story short-- I recently pulled out of the gas station with the passenger door still open, catching it on a pillar. The door was pulled outward. While it does open and shut fine, it makes a loud noise as it is rubbing on the fender. Is this something I should have fixed or should I leave well enough alone and deal with the noise as a reminder of my blunder?
A-Your door is probably out of alignment and the hinges may be slightly bent or the bolts, which fasten the hinges, loosened. There are several possible solutions to this, depending on the car make and model.
In some cases, it is possible to adjust the door by placing it in the proper position and then tightening the bolts. If the hinges are bent, it might be necessary to replace them as well as the sheet metal where the hinges attach if either cannot be straightened.
Some cars, however, have welded hinges that do not allow for much adjustment. In this case, replacement is likely necessary.
While the door is operational, the fact that it is hitting the fender is a problem. The problem is probably minor but I would suggest taking it in to the shop for repairs now before a minor issue becomes a big headache.
