This guide aims to help solve the issue of stuck car door latches or locks in Subaru Impreza 2001, 2002, and 2003 models. The instructions are specifically designed for 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza models but may be applicable to related models such as Subaru XV/Crosstrek (GP). Broken door locks are frustrating and embarrassing, especially in the 08-14 Impreza/WRX models.
To fix a stuck door, loosen the setscrew on the door knob’s shank and turn the loose door knob clockwise until it fits snugly. Tighten the screw until the knob turns freely. If the door is closed and locked, you can remove the door card with the door closed. Illustrated step-by-step manuals and video tutorials provide instructions on replacing the Subaru Impreza Door Lock.
First, remove screws hidden behind the door handle and disconnect wiring from the door. To do this, pry up the plastic tab from inside the handle located on the front door armrest. Next, use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the latch from inside the car door.
If the door lock mechanism is missing, replace the body integrated unit because the relay driving the actuator is located on the circuit board inside. If the door lock mechanism is not working, take it out of the donor car using pry bars and disconnect the locking cable.
In summary, fixing a stuck car door latch or lock can be a simple process that involves loosening the setscrew, turning the loose door knob clockwise, and removing the locking cable.
📹 Fix That Broken Inner Door Handle On your Subaru Impreza/ Forester
Sick of the times where you have to put your window down in the rain, reach out to the exterior door handle just to open the door …
📹 Fix a stuck car door latch/lock with the door closed – Subaru Impreza 2001, 2002, 2003
I couldn’t find any good info about this online for Subarus so figured I would share. Also applies if you want to remove a door …
Thank you for this terrific article. Am a not-tool-friendly 67 year old female, and everything followed perfectly. The tweeter was harder to remove than yours, but otherwise each step worked as advertised! My 15 year old Forester (am trying to get to 200,000 miles – have 23,000 more to go) no longer warrants big repairs, and I’m willing to have a go to keep it looking good.
My very clever, persistent mate eventually opened the driver’s side door on my wife’s 2009 SF Forester. The accentuator was stuffed. The only way to open the door was to eventually break the accentuator apart with a big flat-head screwdriver and a hammer. He had to pry the inner door skin out a bit to get to it. He then replaced the accentuator and put it all back together again. Everything now works. He reckons it was the most frustrating car job he’s ever done.