Back Driver side door won't open all the way

[wendyhmily]

The back driver side door didn't open all the way in my Saturn ion. It opens from both the inside and outside handle but just to the point about 1/4 open then stops. It opens only about 10 degree angle and I could not get in the rear seats. Does anyone knows what happen and how do I fix it? I don't want to break anything. Thanks in advance.

[lgodave]

First Impressions... Cold Weather? Ice? Frozen/Blocked Hinges and/or doorway?

What can you see that might be obstructing it's path? Assuming there is no Accident Damage (maybe a broken (rusted?) Hinge) or the previously mentioned Frozen Water blockage....

If you can't see anything or spraying lube onto the various sliding/pivoting parts you can reach isn't helpful (a spray tube will come in handy...). You might just have to "gently" try and force it open. On my 03 ION there is a plastic "slide" connecting between the Pillar and the door... I'd suspect that's the only thing you might realistically "break" (besides the hinges if you REALLY went at it) but then if that "slide" is the cause of the problem it might be time to replace anyway... (If that is what is "hanging" up... I'd suspect there is enough "give" for it to flex enough to allow the door to open.)

Good Luck.