How to Fix Sharp Inside Car Door Handles: Preventing Cuts and Injuries

Dealing with a car door handle that suddenly becomes a safety hazard is not something any car owner expects. Imagine reaching to open your car door from the inside and instead of a smooth surface, you encounter a razor-sharp edge. This is exactly what happened to one driver, highlighting a concerning issue with peeling interior door handles. If you’re experiencing a similar problem with your car’s inside door handle, understanding how to fix it is crucial for your safety and that of your passengers.

The original post on a car forum detailed a frightening experience where a driver sustained a significant cut from a peeling chrome interior door handle in their Ford Fusion. The chrome coating had detached, creating a sharp edge that sliced the driver’s finger. This incident raises important questions about the durability of interior car parts and what car owners can do when faced with such issues.

This problem isn’t isolated. While the original poster mentioned a GM recall for a similar issue, it’s a reminder that various makes and models can experience problems with interior trim, including door handles. The models mentioned in connection to this handle design include Ford Fusion, Milan, MKZ, Edge, and MKX, suggesting a broader potential issue across these vehicle lines.

So, How To Fix Inside Car Door Handle issues like peeling and sharp edges? While a definitive, one-size-fits-all solution doesn’t exist, here are several approaches you can consider:

1. Temporary Fixes for Immediate Safety:

• Protective Tape: As a very short-term solution, carefully apply a durable tape, like electrical tape or strong adhesive tape, over the sharp edge. This will create a barrier and prevent accidental cuts. However, this is not a long-term solution and needs to be addressed properly.
• Handle Covers: Consider using temporary car door handle covers. These might be universal or model-specific and can provide a soft layer over the problematic handle.

2. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Repair Options:

• Careful Sanding (with caution): If the peeling is minor and involves a rough edge, you might be able to carefully sand down the sharp part using very fine-grit sandpaper. Extreme caution is necessary. You risk damaging the handle further or creating dust particles. This is only advisable for very minor imperfections and requires a delicate touch.
• Trim Repair Kits: Automotive trim repair kits are available that can sometimes be used to address peeling or damaged interior parts. These kits usually involve fillers or adhesives and might be suitable for certain types of peeling, but effectiveness will vary depending on the extent of the damage and the material of the handle.

3. Professional Repair and Replacement:

• Dealership or Mechanic: The most reliable solution is to consult your car dealership or a trusted mechanic. They can properly diagnose the issue, determine if the handle needs replacement, and ensure the repair is done correctly.
• Part Replacement: In many cases, replacing the interior door handle is the best course of action, especially if the peeling is extensive or causing a safety concern. A mechanic can source the correct replacement part for your vehicle model.

4. Warranty and Recall Considerations:

• Check Warranty: Even if your bumper-to-bumper warranty has expired, certain components might be covered under extended warranties or specific parts warranties. It’s worth checking your warranty documentation or contacting your dealership to inquire. In the original post, the service manager was skeptical about warranty coverage, but it’s always worth a thorough check.
• Recall Information: While the original poster couldn’t find a Ford recall for this specific issue, it’s always wise to check for any recalls related to interior door handles or trim for your car’s make and model on the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website or your manufacturer’s website.

Safety Should Be the Priority

A sharp or peeling inside car door handle is more than just an aesthetic issue; it’s a safety hazard. It’s crucial to address this problem promptly to prevent injuries. While DIY fixes might offer temporary relief, professional repair or replacement is often the most effective and safest long-term solution. Regularly inspect your car’s interior handles and trim for any signs of wear or peeling to catch potential problems before they cause injury.