Hello all. Been browsing the forums looking for the problem I'm having, but haven't seen anything quite right. So I could really use some help.

I've got an '08 coupe with the rear hatch auto pull down system. When my problems first started the auto pull down feature wouldn't work once in a while. I just had to pop the hatch and close it again and it worked fine. Well my problems have gotten progressively worse. The auto pull down feature is about completely gone, and I'm having problems getting the hatch to open at all. The exterior switch, the FOB and the interior release switch all appear to be working. I can hear clocking at the back hatch assembly when I depress any of these buttons.

At this time I have the latch plate in my hand (removed from the hatch itsself) so I can see and hear what is going on. When trying to simulate closing the hatch the auto pull down feature of the latch has only worked once out of 10 attempts. The latch itself will completely engage if I push down on it though. When simulating opening the hatch I am pulling up on the latch plate and depressing buttons at the same time. I can hear clicking going on in the latch assembly, but no release. It is taking about 1/2 dozen button pushed before the latch assembly releases the hatch, and the auto pull down is gone.

Has anyone has this problem? Is it the solenoid in the latch assembly? I could sure use some help from anyone who has experienced this.

Thanks,

 

I have the same problem on my 08 Z that just arrived this week.

I think there must be a stickie on this but I have failed to find it.

 

I haven't heard of many problems like yours.

I've heard of problems where plastic bags or fabric have got caught in the latch.

However, if the solenoid/motor are getting weak and not releasing properly or not pulling down the hatch properly, I don't think there's much to do but get a new latch.

Take a look at the diagram on this site:

http://www.compnine.com/index.php?u=...12&grouptype=B


It looks like you need that item# 14 (which also includes #13). You can see it looks like the GM Part# is 15220345.

It's available from forum vendors at a discount, for instance Gene Culley at http://gmpartshouse.com it's about $269.

You could also check with salvage operators, or check with forum member RLSebring - I got one for my 2006 Z06 from him when I changed out the manual latch to an auto pull down latch.

Again, I just haven't heard of any other reports of failure of the latch motor or solenoid, but I would imagine if it's weak and not operating correctly it might just need to be replaced.

Bob

 

Nice write up and feedback

 

Thanks to all for the feedback on this so far. Yes, the latch assembly is a sealed unit so the solenoid is not serviceable. I'm going to get through the troubleshooting today with my new tech tool to ensure nothing else is going on before I order the new expensive latch assembly. Bummer, but I guess it happens.

 

Good luck!!

Let us know what you find out - whether you're able to fix it, or if you have to go with a new unit.

Bob

 

For anyone who has this problem with their C6, it was the latch assembly. Received the new one and installed today in 15 minutes. Problem solved! Rather expensive part though. $270.00 online, but that is better than the local dealer price of nearly $400.00. Seems odd that this part fails with only 10K on the car. Oh well, now I have one I can cut open with a Dremel to see if it is user repairable. Stay tuned for results on that venture.

 

I may have this problem with a brand new car but, I need to check and make sure it's not me...nice write up...however mine should be covered under warranty....

 

I read here awhile back about the fist solution, bring the hatch down and then push the hatch with your fist to activate the closer. Don't just close the hatch and expect it to activate the closer. This works for me, if not then you may have to replace parts.

 

Excellent!!!!

Glad to hear you got your problem solved!!

Although, sorry to hear it took the "expensive" fix.

Thanks for the report.

Bob

 

Yes, I wish mine would have been under the warranty. Warranty on the body expired 3 months before the problem occurred. Oh well.

 

Nice job getting this resolved, Derek.

 

For those with Z06 models, I don't believe early Z06's had the hatch pull down. Not sure when it was added but I do remember at least one thread where someone went to the trouble and expense of adding it.

 

Mine has just started to stick occassionally.

OP, let us know if it looks fixable when you tear into it. And post some pics if you can.

 

Yeah...mine doesn't have it. I've been kinda scratching my head trying to figure out what was going on. It would be nice though. It's bitzz to shut if the car is closed up tight.

Larry

 

Folks, I have a suggestion. I have a 2007 Coupe. Not sure if the system is the same but if I leave my front door open or window down, I then grab the hatch and pull it down. I let go about 1 foot from the closed position and the top will slowly drop to about one inch from being closed and then it pulls itself right down and the hatch is closed.

If I try the same thing with the front windows and door closed the hatch won't close as described above. It's seems the car with the windows closed is just too air tight. What I have to do then it put both hands on the hatch and push it all the way closed.

See if it works for you. I just make sure the driver side door is the last thing I close. Good Luck

 

Yes.....someone did add it to their early C6 Z06!!!

Here's a link to the thread:

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c6-z...ear-hatch.html


Scroll down to post# 44 where I finally got the parts and started the installation.

Starting with the 2009 model year the Z06 got the auto pull down latch installed by the factory - something that a GT car of this sort should have had from the start. It also should have had the power passenger seat and adjustable lumbar support and side bolsters all along!! But....they, too, can be added to an early C6 Z06.

Bob

 

I had a similar problem. https://youtu.be/UY1VTruEaRs

 

To all, be sure you have deep sockets to remove the 10mm and 8mm nuts.
The YouTube video I had to change out the rear latch assembly failed to mention that. Thus, a trip to Lowes in the middle of the process, which I hate. Had the shallow sockets and they do not work! Also the electronics have to be transferred to the new latch, so you are best served to take photos before you disconnect, which I did per the video.
You will save a few hundred dollars in labor by doing yourself. I'm not technical savvy, so if I can do it anyone can.

 

I had a problem where the hatch wouldn't pop up and appeared stuck when I pressed the open button. I LUBRICATED the rubber weather stripping seal all around the hatch, and the hatch opened fine.