RX - 1st Gen (1999-2003) Discussion topics related to the 1999 -2003 RX300 models

Doors swing open

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Old 04-04-10, 07:15 AM
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NormInTX
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Question Doors swing open

On my '00, the front doors don't have any stops or detents. I'm not sure of the terminology. They just swing open freely. Anyone know what the problem is, or what's worn out - and how to fix it?
Old 04-04-10, 08:15 AM
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bob2200
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Since you indicate both doors, I'd try the doors on another RX300. Perhaps what you are observing is normal.

There is one stop, mid-way, that is controlled by the black plastic(?) guide that is mid-way up the door jam. It is bolted to the car frame with two bolts and to the car door with two bolts, but it looks like you would need to get inside the door to remove it. Mine has a shine on all but the valley where the stop is, from rubbing against something inside the door.

Last edited by bob2200; 04-04-10 at 08:27 AM.
Old 04-04-10, 01:57 PM
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salimshah
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My '99RX does not have the 3/4 ajar intermediate stop. Maybe it is worn out .

Salim
Old 04-04-10, 03:45 PM
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Nad1370
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It's called a "Door Check".
Held by 3 10mm bolts.
Need to take out the door panel to replace it.

You might want to check if your bolts are still there. Sometimes the one on the body loosens up and falls off w/out you knowing.
Attached Thumbnails Doors swing open-door-check-2.jpg   Doors swing open-door-check.jpg  
Old 04-04-10, 05:53 PM
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salimshah
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Nad .. does your stop in between or smoothly open to max .... what ever the "door check" allows.

I used to have a 2dr Oldsmobile and the door would open to first stop and if you push it more, it would open further to the max-open position. Some where there was spring assist and I had to be real careful not to bump the vehicle next to me.

Salim
Old 04-04-10, 08:26 PM
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Nad1370
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Originally Posted by salimshah
Nad .. does your stop in between or smoothly open to max .... what ever the "door check" allows.

I used to have a 2dr Oldsmobile and the door would open to first stop and if you push it more, it would open further to the max-open position. Some where there was spring assist and I had to be real careful not to bump the vehicle next to me.

Salim
If you give it enough push (coming out of the car), it will fully open smoothly with a little catch on the stop.
Today was windy and the stops didn't even hold the door there.
So I can say that it has less of a hold on the stop than your Olds.
Old 04-04-10, 11:48 PM
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code58
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Your Olds was a different type of stop (or check) Salim. As a matter of fact sometimes the type GM used could become very hard to close even, when the check became dry or rusted. I can't imagine the type T/L uses ever becoming hard to close, only easier to close the older they get.
Old 04-05-10, 09:07 AM
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NormInTX
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Thanks, all. I do have the black plastic guide, and it looks similar to Nad's photos. I think that whatever is inside the door, that would be rubbing the guide for the intermediate stop, is worn out. The plastic guide is attached, because the door stops. It just doesn't have that middle stop.

Next, I'll look up how to remove the door panel so I can see what's inside.
Old 04-05-10, 10:22 AM
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salimshah
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Originally Posted by NormInTX
Thanks, all. I do have the black plastic guide, and it looks similar to Nad's photos. I think that whatever is inside the door, that would be rubbing the guide for the intermediate stop, is worn out. The plastic guide is attached, because the door stops. It just doesn't have that middle stop.

Next, I'll look up how to remove the door panel so I can see what's inside.
I think the general consensus that is building is that RX does not have the detent (or 1/2 or 3/4 way stop). So dont bother with the door till some one says for sure it exists.

Salim
Old 04-05-10, 10:39 AM
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bob2200
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Originally Posted by salimshah
I think the general consensus that is building is that RX does not have the detent (or 1/2 or 3/4 way stop). So dont bother with the door till some one says for sure it exists.
It sure exists on my 2002 model.
Old 04-05-10, 01:09 PM
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NormInTX
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Yes, for sure it had the detent in the past. I think something has just worn out.
Old 04-05-10, 01:44 PM
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salimshah
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Originally Posted by NormInTX
Yes, for sure it had the detent in the past. I think something has just worn out.
Alright, I will wait for you tell me how to fix it. Keep a camera handy.

Salim
Old 04-13-10, 02:25 PM
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NormInTX
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Well, getting a bit closer.

The part I (we) need is a "door check". Apparently, Lexus doesn't allow aftermarket vendors access to this part, or makes it difficult.

Price at a dealership is $126 each. Anyone have access to a parts manual, so I can get a part number? That might help.

I'll keep you posted. The fix seems pretty straightforward. Just remove the door panel and remove a couple of bolts and a pin to replace the door check. I just think $250 for a couple of pieces of plastic is a bit much.
Old 04-13-10, 02:31 PM
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Nad1370
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^^ What rip-off's !!

Part# 68610-48010
Same for both doors.

$72 here:

http://www.lexuspartsnow.com/parts/l...610-48010.html
Old 04-13-10, 03:03 PM
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NormInTX
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Thanks Nad,

With that number - what do you think about allworldautomotive.com at $14.64 each?


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