Expert: William Forster - 9/3/2007

Question
My son has a 97 Buick Skylark (2 door)that the drivers side door makes a loud popping sound when opened or closed. The hinge seems fine so I pulled the panel and cannot see but can feel a spring type part that is making the popping  sound. What is it and how can I fix it?  Thanks!

Answer
Hello Steve! First, check the hinges. Try lifting the door up and down to see if there is excessive looseness of the door itself. Have a helper work the door up and down while yo observe the hinges. There should be almost zero play in the hinge assemblies. If there is, one of the hinges, or both, need replaced. Now, As memory serves, the skylark also has a door check strap. It bolts to the body between the hinges, and it"s attached to the door. It's what holds the door open instead of a spring on the hinge. The bolts work loose on these, and it will make a god awful sound when the door is open or shut. Be sure the bolt on the cowl is tight, then remove the rubber cover on the door side. There should be 2 nuts holding the check strap , be sure they are tight. If everything seems tight, then check the hinge bolts for tightness. If they seem tight, then the check strap is either worn out or damaged, or the hinges are worn out. Bill