Loose door handle

Mazdaspeed96743 · February 17th, 2007, 11:07 pm

Hey guys my drivers side door handel on my MX3 is a little loose when I try to open the door it looks like it would pop off if I yanked it hard enough I think someone tried to break in. Any idea how to tighten the door handel? it is the whole handel on the exterior of the car.

tehbrookzorz · Post by **tehbrookzorz** » February 19th, 2007, 2:53 pm

I have this problem too; it makes me a bit nervous about theft and I think it's allowing extra moisture into my door but I haven't had a chance to try to fix it yet. I have a feeling we'll have to remove the entire inside5 panel to gain access, then figure out a way to tighten it from there.

Anyone else done this so we can ask you for help if we get stuck?

Sal · Post by **Sal** » February 19th, 2007, 3:55 pm

lol, i have the same problem its loose and when i put in the key it doesnt feel stiff and makes like a scartching rubbing sounds. i think i mite have replace it all its probably rusted from the inside and out.

PATDIESEL · Post by **PATDIESEL** » February 19th, 2007, 6:05 pm

Take the door panel off (couple of screws on the rear edge, screw on the inside door handle cup, screw in the bottom of the window switch cup, might be one more screw or bolt somewhere but I cannot remember where). You see that the door panel is held on by two nuts that connect to twobolts that are welded onto the door handle. Check that the rods to the lock are connected. Spray some graphite powder (buy the type made specifically made for locks) into the outside of the lock. Turn the lock a few times (lock and unlock) and it should loosen up. Do not use silicone as it will catch dirt and grime and hold it in the lock. The graphite will wear out or fall out after about 6 months and need to be done again, but nothing major.