Chevrolet Silverado: Why is "Door Ajar" Light On?
While it may be pesky, the "door ajar" message is usually quite simple to resolve. If you continue to see this message, take a look at the potential problems listed below and their solutions.
This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (1999-present).
If your truck's door is left open (or your Silverado thinks that a door is open), you will likely be greeted with a "door ajar" light. The solution can be as simple and easy as closing a door that's been left open. However, you might need to do a bit more digging to uncover the source of the problem. You could find that the door switch isn't working properly or that a seatbelt or another object is keeping the door from closing all the way. Here's a closer look at what you can do if you see the "door ajar" light on in your Silverado 1500.
Materials Needed
- 1/2 x 6-inch piece of tubing (optional)
Step 1 – Check the doors
It sounds obvious, but having an open door is one of the most common culprits of a "door ajar" light. The door doesn't have to be wide open for the light to come on. Check to make sure that all doors are closed completely, as a door that's open just a slight amount can trigger this light.
If this wasn't the issue, move on to Step 2.
Step 2 – Inspect the door switch
If a door isn't open, the next step is to inspect the door switch. It is not uncommon for a switch to become stuck. In this case, the switch does not function properly anymore and becomes stuck in the "closed" position. To prevent this problem in the future, swap out the existing door switch with a higher quality switch, as it will likely last longer than the original factory part.
If the door switch is not the problem, move on to Step 3.
Step 3 – Be sure the door isn't blocked
A door may fail to close properly if it is blocked in some way. Make sure that a seatbelt isn't hanging in one of the doorways. Check to see if any trim, seat cushions, or articles of clothing are stuck in the door frame.
If none of the above solved the issue, move on to the final step.
Step 4 – Deactivate the sensor
The door open sensor is located in the lock assembly. The door needs to be closed in order to deactivate the open sensor. You can use your small piece of tubing to deactivate the sensor. Keep in mind that the tubing will be slightly larger than the opening but that the extra thickness will help hold the tubing in place. When it's properly in place, the tubing acts the same as a striker bolt that the door latches to.
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