Take steps to repair a loose lever door handle instead of replacing it.

It may be a small round or rectangle shaped hole or protruding pin.

If there is a set screw, loosen and remove it with your screwdriver.

Loose lever door handle on partially opened white door closeup

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

Gently pull the lever handle away from the door while depressing the pin.

Loosen the screws so that you could inspect the shank, thread, and tip for any defects.

Examine the screws for any noticeable defects, like a stripped drive or any signs of bending or warping.

Multiple screwdriver set brands on table

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

If the screws are damaged, then you won’t be able to repair the door without replacing them.

Head to a local home improvement store to pick up replacement screws.

One of the most common causes of a frequently loose lever door handle is handle misalignment.

Materials and tools to fix a loosened lever door handle

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

This misalignment causes tension within the door handle assembly, resulting in gradually loosening screws and increased wear.

Tighten the screws, making sure that the lever door handle remains properly aligned as you work.

Repeat this process on both sides, so that both lever handles work properly.

Allen wrench loosening screws on side of lever door handle

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

Door handle screws placed on wooden surface for inspection

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

Lever handle realigned on door by hand

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

New screws reapplied to lever door handle base and screwed into door

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

Lever handle screwed back over door pin and tightened with Allen wrench

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault