Auto rear door

Types of Auto Rear Door

A car's rear auto door is as important as a front door to a house. It provides access to the trunk or cargo space for loading and unloading items. Various types of auto rear doors suit different vehicle designs and customer preferences. Here are some popular types of auto rear doors:

• Liftgate

  A liftgate, also known as a tailgate or hatchback, is the most common rear auto door type. This door swings upward, allowing easy access to the cargo area. Liftgates are popular in hatchbacks, SUVs, and crossover vehicles. They offer convenience for loading groceries or outdoor equipment. Rear liftgates also provide a shelter area for tailgating or camping.

• Tailgate

  A tailgate is a rear door type commonly found in pickup trucks. Unlike other liftgates, a tailgate swings down to provide access to the truck bed. Some tailgates can split in the middle like doors for easier access. Tailgates are essential for loading and unloading items on trucks. They enhance the truck's utility and cargo accessibility.

• Trunk lid

  Another common type of rear auto door is the trunk lid, also known as a boot lid. It is a hinged panel that provides access to the trunk for sedans, coupes, and some hatchbacks. Unlike liftgates and tailgates, trunk lids open downward. They offer a more aerodynamic design. Trunk lids contribute to the vehicle's overall structural integrity. However, they limit rear access compared to other door types.

• Dual rear doors

  Some SUVs, vans, and trucks have split rear doors. The upper section swings up like a liftgate, while the lower part is a hatchback. This design offers flexibility for loading large items. They provide multiple loading options for different situations.

• Rear barn doors

  Some SUVs, vans, and trucks have split rear doors. The upper section swings up like a liftgate, while the lower part is a hatchback. This design offers flexibility for loading large items. They provide multiple loading options for different situations.

• Spoiler-mounted door

  Some sport cars and hatchbacks have auto rear doors with spoilers mounted on top. This design enhances aerodynamics by allowing the spoiler to be mounted above the liftgate. It improves vehicle performance and style. Spoiler-mounted doors are popular among sports cars and performance-focused vehicles.

Specifications and Maintenance of Auto Rear Door

Specifications

• Size

  Auto rear doors come in different sizes depending on the vehicle. The standard size for compact cars is 80 to 100 cm in width and 90 to 120 cm in height. For SUVs, the doors measure 100 to 130 cm wide and 120 to 150 cm tall. The measurement for hatchbacks is 90 to 110 cm wide and 100 to 130 cm high.

• Material

  The auto rear door is made of the same material as the rest of the car body. Generally, steel is the most common material since it is affordable and durable. Aluminum doors are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making them a good choice for luxury and sports cars. Some manufacturers use plastic parts like polycarbonate or ABS since they are lightweight and affordable.

• Glass

  A rear door comes with a rear window that provides visibility to the back. The glass is made of tempered glass, which is tough for everyday use in vehicles. Laminated glass is used in some models since it provides better safety and UV protection. The thickness of the glass varies, with thicker panes providing better strength and durability.

• Sealants

  These are used to prevent water and air from getting inside the vehicle. They are usually made of EPDM rubber since it is affordable and provides good insulation. Silicone is used in some models because it is stretchy and has excellent adhesive properties. Polyurethane is ideal for auto rear doors that need strong bonds and durability.

Maintenance

• Cleaning

  The seals around the auto rear door should be cleaned regularly. Dirt can cause wear and tear, which compromises their ability to keep water and air out. Use a soft brush and mild soap to remove the dirt. Rinse with water to get rid of the soap residue. After cleaning, ensure the seals are dry to prevent mold growth.

• Lubrication

  The hinges and struts of the rear door should be lubricated once a month. This prevents squeaks and makes the door easier to open and close. Use a silicone-based lubricant or graphite powder. Avoid using oil-based products since they can damage the seals.

• Inspection

  Every six months, the condition of the rear door should be inspected. Look out for loose hinges, damaged seals, or cracks in the glass. Make repairs as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Ensure the sealants are in good condition to prevent water leaks into the vehicle.

• Cleaning the glass

  Cleaning the glass on the rear door is important for clear visibility. Use a glass cleaner and soft cloth to wipe the glass. Avoid using abrasive materials, as they can scratch the glass.

How to Choose an Auto Rear Door

Choosing the right automotive rear doors for a project requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure that the selected doors meet the desired needs and preferences. Here are some key aspects to consider when choosing auto rear doors:

• Purpose: Consider the primary function of the auto rear door. Will it be used for a passenger car, a commercial vehicle for cargo loading, or an off-road vehicle for rugged terrain? Different purposes may require distinct door designs and features.
• Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure that the rear auto door is compatible with the vehicle's make, model, and year of production. Customization may be necessary for some vehicles, so be prepared for potential installation challenges.
• Security: Evaluate the security features of the rear doors. Look for doors with robust locking mechanisms, anti-break-in designs, and reinforced materials if theft or burglary is a concern.
• Style and Aesthetics: Consider the rear auto door style and design concerning the vehicle's overall appearance. Choose a door that complements the vehicle's aesthetics and personal preferences.
• Budget: Set a budget for the rear door replacement or installation. Rear doors can vary significantly in cost depending on the type, material, and brand. Consider the long-term benefits and value rather than focusing solely on the initial expense.
• Warranty and Support: Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer or supplier of the rear auto door. A solid warranty can provide peace of mind and protection against defects. Additionally, consider the availability of customer support and assistance in case of installation or other issues.

How to diy and replace auto rear doors

Replacing a rear auto door is not an easy task. It requires more than one person to hold the door in place and more than one person to lift the door. It is heavy, and the glass on the door makes it even heavier. The process of replacing a rear auto door is called suspension. When replacing a rear auto door, the hinges of the door are removed so that the new door can be suspended on the rear door frame.

To replace an auto rear door, the following tools are required:

• A door trim removal tool
• Socket wrench
• Torx screw driver
• 10mm deep socket
• 14mm socket
• 22mm socket
• 1/2 inch drive
• 3/8 inch extension
• 1/4 inch drive
• 1/2 inch drive torque wrench

Step-by-step guide on how to replace an auto rear door:

• First, gather all the necessary tools needed for the job.
• Disconnect the battery before starting the process to prevent electrical shocks.
• Remove the door trim to expose the bolts that hold the door in place.
• Use the socket wrench to loosen the bolts at the door hinges and the bolt located at the door striker.
• After loosening the bolts, gently lift the door off the frame and place it on a flat surface.
• Now, lift the new door and place it on the frame. Make sure it is well aligned.
• Once the new door is in place, tighten all the bolts using the socket wrench.
• Reconnect the battery.

It is important to read the manufacturer's manual before attempting to replace an auto rear door. The manual will give more information on how to replace the door correctly.

Q and A

Q1: What is the purpose of an auto rear door?

A1: The rear doors of cars are primarily used for entering and exiting the car, loading and unloading cargo, and accessing the trunk or cargo area. Rear doors enhance vehicle accessibility and convenience for passengers and drivers.

Q2: What types of vehicles have an auto rear door?

A2: Vehicles such as SUVs, hatchbacks, station wagons, and vans are designed with rear doors. These cars have rear doors that provide access to the cargo area, making them useful for loading gear, groceries, and luggage.

Q3: What are the different kinds of auto rear doors?

A3: Rear doors are designed in various ways, such as rear doors that swing open to the side (e.g., some SUVs and station wagons), tailgates or backs that lift upward (e.g., hatchbacks and SUVs), and rear doors with a separate trunk lid (e.g., sedans and some wagons). The type of rear door is functional and space-efficient.

Q4: What are the common problems with rear auto doors?

A4: Common issues with rear auto doors include difficulty opening or closing the door, seals or weatherstrips wearing out, glass-related issues (e.g., window malfunction), hinge or mounting issues, and door alignment problems. Regular maintenance can prevent these problems.

Q5: How can these problems be solved?

A5: Addressing door alignment problems involves adjusting the hinges and checking the door frame for damage. Lubrication, hinge replacement, and door adjustments can solve issues related to difficulty opening or closing the door. Other problems will require professional intervention to fix them.