How Much Does It Cost To Fix Car Door Handle?

It is such a hassle when your car door handle gets busted. You can't use it to open that side of the door so you use other doors to go in or out of the car. If you're wondering how much it'll cost you to have it fixed, you're in luck because we've already asked the experts, and here's what they say.

Prepare to spend between $70 to $300 to have your interior door handle replaced while it would cost around $115 to $541 to fix the exterior door handle of your car. The price would also depend on the make and model of your car, labor cost, and shop price.

Car door handles are one of the most used and abused parts of your car. You use it every time you need to go in or out of your vehicle. It is no wonder then that they are subjected to rapid wear and tear. Hang on because we'll tell you how it reached those figures and how you can possibly cut down on your costs by doing the replacement yourself.

, How Much Does It Cost To Fix Car Door Handle?

The Cost Of Fixing The Handle Of Your Car

Knowing if your door handle is broken or busted is pretty much straightforward. There may be a crack, it's loose or broken into pieces, or has other visual damages.

Thankfully, this part of your car is one of the least expensive to replace, and fixing a broken handle is quite simple for those who have the flair for it.

Of course, the cost of having a car door handle fixed depends on different factors such as the following:

  • Make and model of your vehicle. If you've got a luxury car, chances are the cost of the replacement door handle is very expensive. A door handle for a 2003 Honda Accord only costs $15 while the one for a 2012 BMW 740i costs $541.
  • Who's going to do the replacement? Are you going to ask a professional to do it for you or can you get the job done by yourself? A mechanic charges you per hour so it would be great if you (or someone you know) can do the replacement.
  • Place where you'll purchase the door handle. There's a big difference between the price in the car shops and those in the salvage or junk yards.
  • Which handle is broken? Exterior door handles are more expensive to replace than interior door handles.

Interior Door Handle

Interior door handles are cheaper because they are made of less durable materials compared to their exterior counterpart. You can find handles for as low as $20 for mass-market economy cars. However, be prepared to spend around $250 if you have a luxury car.

You can try to bring down the cost by looking for used parts or try your luck at the salvage yard. These are good options and you're going to save big bucks.

If you'll ask a mechanic to replace your interior door handle, you will spend about an additional $50 on the labor cost.

So, all in all, the cost of fixing an interior door handle can range from $70 to $300. This is inclusive of the door handle replacement and labor to have it installed in your car.

Exterior Door Handle

The exterior door handle is more expensive to replace because it is made of more durable materials since it is exposed to the elements.

It would also be more expensive if the one that's busted is the front door handle as it will involve the locking mechanism for your car.

Another contributing factor is the paint or color of the door handle as it should match the color of your car.

The replacement handle can cost anywhere between $15 to $446. You also need to add the cost of the paint job and door lock if needed.

If you factor in the labor cost, you can expect to shell out around $115 to $541 excluding the cost of the lock replacement and paint job.

Is it easy to replace a car door handle?

Easy is a relative word. Even if you are mechanically inclined, it would be quite difficult to replace an exterior car door handle. There are too many sensitive parts to deal with.

But it would be quite easy to replace the interior door handle on your car. You just got to have the right tools for the job, mechanical skills, and time to do it.

However, if you do not have the competence for this, it's best to entrust this task to your local mechanic. This will ensure that you've got a door handle that's working properly and save you the hassle of having to use other doors in your car to get in or out of your vehicle.

How do you fix a broken car door handle?

If you have the tools and skills for fixing broken things, then you can be guided by these steps so that you can replace your car door handle in no time.

You'll need to prepare the following tools:

  • Replacement door handle
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Socket wrench set (1/4 drive)
  • Torx bit set

Replacing the exterior door handle

  1. Locate the fasteners or bolts that go through the car door.
  2. Put some painter's tape on the door handle area to avoid damaging the paint.
  3. Remove the door handle by unscrewing the bolts.
  4. If it is the front door handle, this is the time when you switch the lock cylinder so that you can still use your old key. Put your car key inside the old handle and carefully take off the lock cylinder then put in inside the new handle.
  5. Install the door handle in its place. Start with the small end of the handle then insert the larger end. Make sure the rubber gaskets are attached properly.
  6. Reconnect any other wirings that are linked to the door handle.
  7. Screw the bolts to secure the door handle in its place.
  8. Test if everything is working properly.

Replacing the interior door handle

  1. Remove the interior panel of your car door by removing the screws that hold it in place.
  2. Remove the wirings that are attached to this side.
  3. Remove the bolts and clips that hold the door handle in place.
  4. Install the new door handle.
  5. Secure it with the bolts and clips.
  6. Put back the wirings that are attached to the door panel.
  7. Re-install the interior door panel.

That's how you can replace your exterior or interior door handle. Again, depending on your mechanical inclination, you can get this done by yourself since it's pretty easy. But if you're not comfortable with the procedures, it's best to ask your trusted mechanic to do it for you.

How long does it take to replace a car door handle?

Replacing a car door handle is relatively easy. But of course, it would also depend on the make, model of the vehicle, and if the door panel comes with different attachments and connections such as wirings for mirrors, speakers, airbags, and weatherstripping.

It would also depend on the level of expertise of the person doing the job. For car mechanics, it can take anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. But for DIYers who do not have such mastery, it can take longer.

Can you glue a car door handle back on?

If you have a busted car door handle and you happen to have glue on hand, you're in luck. This is a quick fix solution to reattach the handle.

But since door handles are subject to a lot of pressure when used, you must utilize glue that has superior adhesive strength. This will ensure that it'll bond really well to your car door panel and can endure the pressure when you use it.

Here are some of the most recommended glue products that you can try:

Loctite Epoxy

It comes with a high-strength formula and works its magic within 5 minutes. It bonds well to metal, plastic, glass, among others.

Click this link to find this product on Amazon.

E6000 Craft Adhesive

This product comes with industrial strength. It works great with metal, plastic, tin, and other surfaces. It is clear when it dries so it won't leave any unsightly mark on the surface of your car door.

Check out this product on Amazon.

Automotive Amazing Goop Glue

This adhesive is very handy for your car repairs. It'll help your door handle to bond powerfully to the panel. It is clear and comes with applicator tips so it is very convenient to use without any mess. 

Click here to see this product on Amazon.

Take note that this is just a temporary solution while you're waiting to have your door handle replaced. It's still best to look for a replacement right away so you can have your car door working properly again.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your car door handle can be quite expensive but if you know your way with tools, you can save a big deal on labor costs and have your door back in great working condition for less the price.

For other posts regarding door handles, you can check the following links:

How Long Should A Door Handle Last?

Do Door Handles Come With Latches?

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