Ever since ive owned the car, the rear doors/handles do not open as smooth as the fronts. I dont use the rear doors often but when I do open them there is almost like a "click" that occurs. It is not just a sound, but you actually have to lift the handle harder, almost like a 2 stage operation. It is not fluid and smooth like the fronts. Doors shut fine, its just the door handles and lock/latch mechanisms. Not sure if anyone has had any similar experiences/fixes. Somewhat hard to explain.

 

I noticed that too. I spray the latch mechanisms with WD40 and that seems to help. Also I do the hinges and the steering u-joints.

Mike

 

Hmmm, do you think there is more of a permenant fix than WD40? Possibly adjusting the latch mechanism, or maybe a more permenant type of lubricant? Its actually somewhat embarrasing having passengers in the car. As they are walking to the vehicle, they are saying how nice it is, then I hear the door click as they open the door.

 

Mine does this too. almost feels like your going to break it. I figured previous owner had taken them apart and didnt put them back right. Very hard to open compared to front.

 

Guys, this is a well documented problem in the X type section.
I've posted a link to a thread which has links in it to various posts outlining what you're discussing.
It may help to give you an insight...Please check it out

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/s...t=door+handles

Good luck

 

The rear doors also have an adjustment. I know because that was the first thing the dealer tried in order to fix the wind noise. Ended up being the molding, but the drivers side rear door is harder to open now. The passenger side isn't. If your not the original owner, I hate to say it, check real good for any body damage. We discovered a bent lower sill that the previous owner hid by replacing just the plastic cover. Again, my very good dealer fixed that at no charge as well.

 

Jim: Thanks for the links, I did not think the X and S types share the same type of door mechanisms? Is that confirmed? If so, it sounds like a real PITA requiring removal of door panels and such.

JOS: No body damage, and BOTH of my rear doors are like that, not just one.

I just figured since they are barely used, and may just need some kind of lube. Clearly, there are other S Type owners with the same issue, and it being a Jag, is proabably alot more in depth than lubing her up....

 

I know the dealer adjusted the latch or the catch on the back door of mine. They didn't take the door apart. I was going to stop in on them in the next couple of days... Going through withdrawl since my car hasn't had any reason to be there in a while. I hope I didn't just jinx myself... I will ask them to adjust out my rear door and watch what they do.

 

Ok great, please let us know if you can get a step by step recon mission accomplished

 

Instead of WD-40, try some lithium-based white grease. Available at any decent hardware or auto parts store. Usually comes in a plastic tube. I've had my same tube for close to 20 years - it's the best stuff for hinges, catches, releases, etc. I've ever used. I try to hit all of our vehicles' hinges and latches with it at least a couple of times a year. You put a small dab on your finger and rub it in. Use a toothpick for those hard-to-reach areas....

 

I agree on using white Lithium grease. I would recommend the spray can version. Easier to apply in difficult areas. I have used for years on all door latches. It is much more resistant to getting washed out compared to WD-40. WD-40 is really more for displacing water. That’s what the WD stands for!
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