sprio

This just started within the last few days - the first time I thought I must have forgotten to close the lid after checking the oil, but it has happened several times since. After driving, when I'm walking away from the car and take that last look over my shoulder, I'll notice that the lid is ajar. When I close it, I make sure it's latched securely.

Any thoughts?

theiceman

yeah ,,, this is not uncommon , especially with a targa or Cab. as the body twists the latch can undo . it is a relatively simple fix, you need to realign the locking mechaism for a better catch. be carefull though as you don't want to get it jammed closes either.

First understand how the mechanism works. Cable to lose it opens, cable to tight , it opens, set that up and work the alignment after that. There should also be a rubber gromet in the body where the pull handle is. Make sure that is there and the adjustments are made with that intact.

Good luck , took me about an hour to fix mine.

old man neri

+1 on what Ice said.

Also, from how I understand, if the cable is snapped it is suppose to open.

theiceman

Right on Matt... what a great engineering design .. i hate my audi .. needed a freakin can opener when the cable snapped !

GothingNC

My old VW Notchback had a similar fail safe.
Same cable set up like the 911 for the rear trunk and when it snapped I was still able to open but it would not lock.

I think the same set up would not be a good idea for the front hood, would not like it to fly open on the highway.

John

theiceman

hahahahahaha good point John ...

sprio

Thanks, I'll have a look when I get home tonight. I'm pretty sure the grommet is in place, but I'll check to make sure it's not worn or deteriorating - then on the checking the cable. Pulling the release still works, so chances are the cable is not broken.

theiceman

just make sure it is adjusted correctly. If it is then move the plate so it hooks in better.

madmmac

Sometimes all it takes is a little grease on the striker and receiver plate and nothing else.

Peter Zimmermann

Ah, I have a better idea. Open your left door, look closely at your pull T-handle. There should be a rubber grommet at its base, if the rubber is gone it can throw the whole system out of whack. It is extremely rare that an undamaged car will require adjustment, usually the rubber breaks and falls away, or the T-handle comes loose. Don't make more work for yourself than needed!

sprio

Thanks, Pete - I enjoy following your posts, and value your advice. Although this is the first time I've had occasion to receive advice directly from you, I have learned much from your contributions to this board.

I'll let you all know how it turns out.

Peter Zimmermann

Thank you, Bruce. To be sure that the T-handle is tight, pull it out to its stop, and, if you have a pair, use needle-nosed pliers (preferably with 90 degree jaws) to hold the cable while you turn the handle (don't get too muscular - it's only plastic!).

porsche930dude

Funny you should say that i saw a bmw m coupe with the same style latches up front. I dont know if they all use that design

LaughaC

Sounds like you're driving so fast that the rear bodywork is being pulled up from the lift! ;-)

ron mcatee

The latch is like a clam shell that moves one way or the other depending on how the cable moves. Make sure the two sides are evenly set. When you move it, it will move back and forth and you will see if it goes too far. I suggest someone help you so you can look at the latch when the cable is moved. it is very evident when you see it. You just want it to all be neutral so the male part with the spring on it goes into the female latch.