Front DS door alignment & adjustment?

[lcgeek]

I have a new to me 99 100, and after it's first 1000 mile journey, I've got an odd problem that just showed up today. When you open the driver side door, the leading edge of the exterior plastic body side molding barely clips the trailing metal edge of the front fender and it makes annoying popping sound. I see no evidence of a prior accident or anything being out of alignment. Also the body side molding seems securely attached.

Interestingly if I press my finger hard on the body side molding at the end while opening the door, it clears, so we are talking very small difference. I have a hard time believing the clips or double sided tape is worn enough to cause this since it does seem really secure even though I can budge it a 1mm if I press on it.

I looked at my 2001 100 to compare and notice there is very little space to clear under normal operation, so it's not surprising to me that any bit of something being out of whack could cause the door molding to clip on opening - just not what is exactly out of whack.

Is there a way to adjust the door rearward a hair or a better fix suggested?

Anyone ever experiencer this problem?

Thanks!
JT

 

[TXLX100]

My first thought is the fender is pushed back. Does the door shut fine and tight when it clears the fender? If so, a door adjustment won't help. I would take it by your dealer (if it has a body shop) or a reputable body shop and have them take a look. It should be pretty obvious to an experienced person.

 

[hoser]

Impossible to tell what is out of alignment from the picture but if the door is in alignment on all the other sides (not seen in the pic), then I'd say it is the fender that needs to be adjusted.

The quick fix could be as easy as loosening the 1-2 bolts on the bottom of the fender (near slider/running board) and just pull the lower portion out 1-2mm. Might be enough to clear.