QuestionHuge mistake. Purchased a vehicle and didn't notice until after purchase that the door wasn't flush. It was a prior salvage title so it did pass inspection, but how can that be with this problem.
I noticed when approaching from behind, thinking I didn't shut the door tight. I purchased the car 48 hours ago, but the dealer won't take the return.
Can this be fixed, or doesn't it align because the frame is out of alignment. I asked about alignment and he said that was checked and was fine.
Is there a way to fix?
AnswerHi Sherry!....Unfortunatly, without me seeing the vehicle in person, taking measurements, and doing a visual inspection, it would be virtually impossible for me to give you the exact cause for this condition....Sorry....Depending on the type and design of a vehicle, whether it has a full frame under it, or is a unibody type design, who, and how it was repaired, are all determining factors....The cause could be something as serious as the A pillar,(the pillar at the front where the door hinges attatch), or the B pillar, (the center pillar where the door latches to), being out of alignment....Or something as simple as just the door striker being not properly aligned....Although you had mentioned that this vehicle is a salvage unit, I dont mean to worry you, as these are just POSSIBLE conditions....What I can do, is to tell you what to look for....First of all, you mentioned that when approaching from behind, the door appears not to be closed all the way....Check to see if the gap is even from top to bottom....If it is, the possibility of the A pillar being twisted is lessened....Open the door, and take a look at the door hinges, hinge bolts, and where the hinges mount to the A pillar....Do the hinges look flush against the pillar, are there shims installed anywhere, and can you see if any bolt holes are enlarged....These are all indications of a repair in this area....As for the B pillar, if it is pushed in, this would also cause your condition....If you can, loosen the striker plate on the B pillar, and see if you can adjust it inward....If you can, this is most likely all that is required....If there is no more inward adjustment, then the B pillar is most likely pushed in....This would require an extensive repair....My advice to you, is to find out where the vehicle passed the inspection, get a copy of the inpection form, and if possible take it back there, and talk to the person who did the inspection, and have them go over it with you....As far as where you purchased your vehicle, if they have a Body Shop, tell them you want it fixed at no charge....If they are any kind of reputable buisness, they should have no problem with this what so ever, as this is possibly a safety issue. (If the B pillar is pushed in)....Hope this helps you out....Drop me another line anytime if you have any further concerns....Thanks....Dave
