My father always drove Cadillacs. Even though he owned several dealerships in his lifetime he always took “his” car to the local Cadillac dealer. In the late 50s and early 60s cars need oil changes every 1000 miles and as most motorists, he was faithful in servicing the car. He never really kept the cars long, being in the biz he used to sell these cars off on a regular basis. The reason I mention this is that along with the oil and filter change, the dealer's tech used to lube all the hinges, locks handles etc. Any hinge that moved or could seize up was given attention. Cars are a curious piece of equipment, they don't like to sit around or remain unused. Cars that are under used require a different standard of service than vehicles that are on the road on a regular basis. Under used cars will suffer from seized parts and rust. Cars need to warm up fully and run on a regular basis.

Q. I have a 2000 Taurus that I drive short distances. The handles on the door when pulled open, stay open and I have to push them in to shut the door. Why is that? How can I make them stop sticking?

A. You'll have to lube the action of the handle. Short of dismantling the door, get a can of lithium based grease with an extension straw on it… just ask the guy at the nearest hardware store. Now spray where the handle is installed through the base. Work the handle back and forth and it should free up. The lithium will prevent the condition from returning for years. This failure is a serious issue now that most vehicles have remote opening locks.