Convertible trunk lid won't CLOSE.
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 2,611
Likes: 89
Convertible trunk lid won't CLOSE.
New C5 owner here, tried a search to no avail. My 99' vert's trunk lid won't CLOSE. Must be getting jammed on the latch. First few times, I could hit the trunk release and it would "open" the latch, but now it seems stuck in the "closed" position. (the latch). Looks like I might get a dead battery with the lid open. Any thoughts?
Last edited by motomanvette; Apr 20, 2015 at 04:08 AM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 2,258
Likes: 544
From: Appleton WI
Your battery should not go dead. After about 15 minutes, the lights will shut off.
Sounds like the latch is either gummed up or has a broken spring. Try putting a screw driver in the latch and pull while activating the switch. I'd then try some WD-40 to work it loose. If that frees it up, apply some graphite to the latch and you should be good to go.
Sounds like the latch is either gummed up or has a broken spring. Try putting a screw driver in the latch and pull while activating the switch. I'd then try some WD-40 to work it loose. If that frees it up, apply some graphite to the latch and you should be good to go.
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 2,611
Likes: 89
Took apart and the spring is either dislodged or broke. It kinda sticks up blocking the
striker from seating itself in the latch. New latch assembly is about $300. Any thoughts?
striker from seating itself in the latch. New latch assembly is about $300. Any thoughts?
Last edited by motomanvette; Apr 20, 2015 at 10:25 AM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 6,644
Likes: 479
From: OK
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 2,258
Likes: 544
From: Appleton WI
If you had a new spring, do you think you could replace it? If so, try a local hardware store (ACE Hardware) or a place like Fastenal or Mid-states bolts to see if you can get a spring. Another idea is to ask a local mechanic where they get their supplies. Not all auto parts chains (Autozone / Orielly's) carry the small stuff but the places that service mechanics do.
Consider watching for people parting out their cars on this forum in the "Parts for Sale or Trade" section or fleabay for a used latch.
Consider watching for people parting out their cars on this forum in the "Parts for Sale or Trade" section or fleabay for a used latch.
Last edited by 3sACROWD; Apr 20, 2015 at 12:33 PM.
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