Chrysler Repair: driver side door latch, phillips head screwdriver, latch mechanisms

Question
door latch is "broken"...just won't stay latched.

Door is permanently a little ajar, but can be latched...until today.  

There is a small plastic "cover" on the metal part on the door that is cracked/broken/partially missing...it is whole on the passenger side.

Can I replace that plastic piece "easily" if that is the problem...get a used piece at the "junkyard" ?

MANY thanks !

Gene

Answer
Hi Eugene,
Every car I have had has replaceable latch mechanisms, on both the door and the door farme. Usually they are held in place by screws with phillips heads. So if you have a phillips head screwdriver of the proper size you should be able to remove and replace the latches. I would go to a junk yard, bringing along the old one that doesn't work and find one that is identical. If you can't find one then a dealer can get you one but at a greater price. If you can't figure out the replacement write back and tell me what year and model you have. You will need to adjust the location of the latches to make sure they fit together well and secure the the door to the proper degree of tension against the gasket so as to prevent leaks and yet close easily.
Roland