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How to Fix a Wiggly Doorknob

A doorknob fastens to a door with a pair of threaded steel tubes held in place by two long machine screws. The latch and locking mechanism fit into the predrilled hole in the door, and the knobs attach to both sides. Over time one or both knobs on a door may become wiggly. This occurs when the screws begin to loosen after repeated use of the door knobs. Fix a wiggly doorknob in a few minutes with a screwdriver. For security, the screws face inside the room or building where the door is located, not toward the outside.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdrivers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the door and hold it ajar while you work.

    • 2

      Grip the outside doorknob firmly with one hand and push in so the knob and cover plate are pressed against the door.

    • 3

      Tighten the two screws on the knob cover plate facing the inside of the room or building while holding the knob on the other side. Use either a Phillips-head or slotted screwdriver, depending on the screws in the cover plate.