Are you using your door handle, only for it to stick down rather than return to the horizontal position?

If so, the most likely problem is that your door handle spring has broken on either one or both sides. Fortunately, replacing this spring is quite simple and doesn’t require too many specialist tools.

All you will need is a pair of pipe cutter pliers and a door handle spring repair kit. Just be sure to look at what type of handle you have and get a replacement spring that matches.

So, if you’d like to know how to fix a door handle spring, this guide is for you.

It’s also worth noting at this stage that we are talking about traditional lever handles, rather than UPVC handles (which are even simpler to fix).

Why should you repair the handle?

You might be wondering why it’s worth fixing the handle spring rather than simply replacing the handle altogether. Well, there are several reasons for this and these include:

  • It will save you money - especially if you need to fix multiple handles around the home or another one breaks in the future
  • It saves you having to try and find a matching handle and get the screw holes in exactly the same position
  • It also saves you from having to repaint the door if you discover that the new handle plate does not cover the same area as the last one, leaving unsightly marks
  • It is better for the environment rather than simply throwing out your old handle
  • And finally, it gives you a real sense of achievement when it’s done - and who doesn’t love that?

So how do you go about fixing the door handle spring?

We’ll now take you through how to fix your door handle spring step by step.

1. Remove the handle

The first thing you need to do to get started (providing you’ve already sourced or ordered some circlip pliers) is to remove the door handle from the door.

If the handle was on the door last time it was painted, you may need to run a sharp knife around the plate/handle to free if from the door without damaging the surrounding paintwork.

It’s also a good idea to put some newspaper or a big bowl underneath the handle when removing it, as it’s not uncommon for bits of dust or fine metal to fall from the handle during this stage. This just makes it easier to clean up after.

2. Open up the circlip

Once the handle is off, it’s time to take apart the components inside and get ready to replace the broken spring. To do this, insert the two tips of your circlip pliers into the two holes in the circlip and then squeeze the pliers together.  This will open up the circlip and allow you to remove it from the handle shaft.

3. Remove washers and cams

The next step is to remove any washers or cams from around the broken spring. These are the small metal disks that you should now be able to see. You’ll notice on the cams that there is a point, this helps you to define the horizontal position of the handle.

As such, it’s a good idea to make note of the orientation of the cam before you remove it.

4. Remove the old spring and fit the new

Now it’s time to remove any fragments of the broken spring that are still within the handle. You can then prepare to add the new one.

Using the spring replacement kit, fit the new door handle spring following the instructions on the packet. For an even smoother handle that will last longer, you can add some grease or Vaseline.

As soon as the new spring is fitted, it should be returning the handle to its horizontal position without intervention from you.

5. Refit the cams and washer 

It’s now time to refit the washers and cams. To do this, depress the handle just past the horizontal position and push the cam onto the shaft with your other hand. Replace the washers and refit the circlip.

6. Test and re-attach your handle

Check that your handle is now working as it should and re-attach it to the door. Then walk away feeling very impressed with yourself.