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15 August 2025 (updated) Types of car doors: from "Gull Wings" to "Scissor Doors"
In general, we open and close our cars using the same method. Typically, cars have two, such as the Audi 3 door, or four standard doors that are hinged at the front and open from the rear to the front. Nevertheless, different types of car doors exist. In this article, we will take a look at a few of them.
Different car door types
Sliding doors
Sliding doors are particularly popular in vans, family buses and vans. They offer a larger opening area with the same low depth as standard doors. This makes access easier and larger or bulky loads can be loaded easily, especially from the side. Another advantage is that sliding doors can be fully opened in tight parking spaces without blocking access to the pavement.
Suicide doors
The term "suicide doors" originated from the perceived safety risk associated with this type of door. They are hinged at the rear and open against the direction of travel, which can be a significant hazard if it is accidentally opened while the vehicle is moving. Suicide doors are not uncommon, particularly in pick-ups with an extended cab, where they are often used in a short version for easy access to the small rear area (extended cab).
Gull wing car door
The term "gull-wing", which means a seagull's wing, refers to a type of design. In this design, the hinges of the doors are attached to the roof, allowing them to open upwards and over the roof, providing a lot of headroom and easy access. There is another type of gullwing door that folds together on a central hinge as it opens, which is known as "Falcon-Wing-Doors". The Tesla Model X is an example of this more complex design, where the rear doors can be opened upwards by simply touching a button.
Scissor doors
Scissor doors, also known as Lambo doors or vertical doors, are a distinctive type of vehicle door that opens vertically rather than swinging outwards like traditional ones. Unlike butterfly doors, which pivot upwards and forward around the A-pillar, these pivot vertically around a hinge located at the base of the A-pillar.
Despite their association with luxury and performance vehicles, scissor doors have also been installed in more mainstream models and many aftermarket producers offer conversion kits allowing car owners to showcase their versatility and enduring appeal in automotive design.
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Butterfly doors
These are an unconventional type that opens vertically rather than swinging outwards like traditional ones. Unlike scissor doors, which swing upwards on a single hinge, these open upwards and slightly forward. This design creates a unique and dramatic entrance that offers both style and functionality.
Butterfly doors have been featured on a range of high-performance and exotic cars, including the McLaren F1 and BMW i8. They offer practical benefits such as easier access in tight parking spaces and a visually striking appearance that sets vehicles apart from the crowd. While not as common as traditional doors, these remain a symbol of innovation and luxury in the automotive industry.
Car door replacement
If you need a replacement you must identify the make and model of your vehicle to ensure you buy car doors that will properly fit your vehicle. You can either order a new one from the manufacturer or explore options from aftermarket suppliers.
If your vehicle has car door lights that light up the ground when the door is opened, it is important to make sure that these lights are transferred from the old one to the new one during the replacement process. These lights not only provide visibility in dark conditions, but they also add to the overall safety and convenience of your vehicle.
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