I had a search and couldn't see anyone having the same problem. For some reason the drivers door on my Seicento won't shut! It's just happened out of the blue, I can't think of anything that would have set it off. It doesn't matter how hard you shut it, the latch inside the door just doesn't seem to engage. Tried WD40, tried pushing a screw driver against the lock mechanism inside the door it but other than removing the entire thing from the car I can't think of what to do. Anyone had similar issues?

Not a common problem, but happens occasionally to any vehicle. The mechanism is seized, as you've guessed. WD40 is a good first option, and is often successful, but if the release lever is tight, the WD40 won't get near it unless you gain access inside the door. Once freed off, proper lubrication will be necessary, as WD40 won't last long.

If the latch, visible with door open, is tight, you can try moving it with a large screwdriver. If the latch is movable, but won't stay to latch the door shut, then the release lever is the problem. You'll need to get the inner door panel off and get at it from inside. Hopefully you've got somewhere to park it safely tonight. Good luck.

Don't know if this is the same with any one else, I have a problem like this when the car gets hot, probably due to expansion of the metal.

if you can move the lever up and down rather than it is being seized, then try to find the sweet spot that when you close the door, it latches down on it. Once I drive around a bit it cools off and works fine lol

If you are in England then you too will have been enjoying the hot weather, it always happens around this time of year with my seicento

Hope this helps

Jack

Thanks guys, the latch is moving freely but just springs back open when it should be staying in position. I took the door card off but didn't have a chance to get much further than that. It's parked up on the drive so fairly safe.

I suggest you don't try to fix it yourself.. you may cause even bigger problems. try some locksmith company. there are many professionals around. they are dealing with car lockouts, locks, ignition and stuff.. try these guys http://www.locksmithnjlocksmith.com/car-locksmith.html. they helped me once.

Paul106xsi said:

Thanks guys, the latch is moving freely but just springs back open when it should be staying in position. I took the door card off but didn't have a chance to get much further than that. It's parked up on the drive so fairly safe.

Click to expand...

Either, the link from an interior or exterior handle is not releasing, or the latching mechanism inside is seized.

You'll probably need to get the latch off the door, hard work in the tight space, then release it and work it until free to move. Lubricate with spray grease, bicycle chain lube is good, gets in where needed. Might work just spraying it in situ, if you can get at it to work it around and get the latch to free off.

Not sure a locksmith is the best option. They're good with locks, but this is the latch.

Thanks for your help guys. All sorted now. I found someone breaking a Sei and got them to send me the door latch. It's a bit of a pain to fit but nothing too complicated.