1. Door won't latch/close properly:
* Striker plate adjustment: This is the most common cause. The striker plate has screws that allow for adjustment in all three planes (up/down, in/out, and sometimes even a slight angle adjustment).
* Up/Down: If the door hits the striker plate too high or low, loosen the striker plate screws and carefully move it vertically to align properly with the door latch. Retighten the screws.
* In/Out: If the door doesn't latch completely, the striker plate might be too far in or out. Loosen the screws, adjust the plate's position inwards or outwards to achieve a solid latch, and tighten the screws.
* Angle (if applicable): Some striker plates have slight angle adjustment. If the latch seems to hit at an angle, try to adjust this if your striker plate allows it.
* Latch mechanism adjustment: Sometimes, the latch mechanism itself can be misaligned or worn. This is more complex and usually requires removing the inside door panel to access the latch and its adjustment points (if any). You'll need a repair manual or online resources specific to your S10 to guide you through this. This often involves dealing with springs and other small parts, so proceed with caution.
2. Door gap is uneven:
Uneven gaps usually indicate issues with hinge alignment (which you excluded), body damage, or less commonly, striker plate placement. If the gaps are inconsistent despite correctly adjusting the striker plate, you'll likely need to investigate further.
3. Troubleshooting Steps:
* Visual Inspection: Before you start adjusting anything, carefully inspect the door and its surroundings. Look for bent parts, damage to the door frame, or any obvious misalignment.
* Clean the latch and striker: Dirt and debris can interfere with a proper latch. Clean the latch mechanism and the striker plate with a wire brush or compressed air. Lubricate them sparingly with a suitable lubricant.
* Check the door's alignment overall: Make sure the door isn't binding anywhere else, as this can affect the latching mechanism.
Important Notes:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual for your specific 2002 S10 is highly recommended. It will provide diagrams, detailed instructions, and torque specifications.
* Safety First: Always use caution when working on your vehicle. Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable working on your vehicle or are unable to resolve the issue after attempting these adjustments, consider taking your S10 to a qualified mechanic.
Remember to test the door's latching after each adjustment. Small adjustments can make a big difference. If you can provide more details about the specific problem you're experiencing (e.g., door won't latch, gap is too large on one side), I can offer more targeted advice.
