One for you guys in colder climates I guess. My 08 XKR has had door issues from time to time over the past few weeks, since the weather's been colder (around freezing point), I can't always get the driver's door to shut properly. It will open (but is stiff, think the glass sticks to the rubber seal when it gets cold) but when I pull the door shut it just makes a "bang" noise and doesn't latch shut.

I doubt it's the window failing to open the half inch or so to clear the roof as I observe it opening and can open and close it freely with the controls. The door catch will, eventually, free up and close properly again, sometimes needs a dose of WD40 to encourage it though.

Anyone got a more permanent fix for this?

 

3 in 1 do a fantastic silicone based lubricant that I use on all my electrical connections and mechanical latches. Also spray some on a rag and wipe it along the rubber seals.

Never had a problem and it has a nice citrusy aroma to it.

I get mine from RS components.

Hope this helps you out.

Jim

 

Thanks Jim. Have you had this specific issue and found that this keeps it at bay? I just ask because I've used WD40 a couple of times now and it still happens, hence I was thinking maybe I might need to change the door catch mechanism or something.

 

As of now I have had no problems with my car. I am a firm believer in preventative rather than reactive maintenance and the 3 in 1 stuff is just one part of my arsenal in keeping my car trouble free.

WD40 as well as being a lubricant is mainly a water dispersant and will erode quite quickly. The 3 in 1, when dry, will leave a film that will last much longer and keep your mechanical bits moving the way they should.

 

I'm having the same issue, when cold the latch freezes so on the first close the bounces and only latches on the safety. It then needs a second harder swing to latch fully. Its on my list of issues for the dealer to look at. I''l let you know what they say / do.

 

Heat gun and extension cord... Heat door until latch works. Happened to me all the time.

 

Then lubricate it with a suitable product (NOT WD40!) so it stops reoccurring.

I use a light silicone based product that leaves a film. WD40 is not suitable for any such application as it is NOT a permanent lubricant.

 

OK thanks, I've got some silicone lubricant (originally bought to cure slow-to-retract seatbelts on a previous car) which should work, I'll try that.

 

Had the same issue with my old Corvette. You got some good advice above. Stay away from WD-40 as it is a water dispursment product. I too had good luck spraying a silicone product on to a cloth and wiping my gaskets. A lock graphite spray or liquid on the latch mechanism might help. Doesn't seem to bind up like an oil/grease product