Bonnet shut and intends staying that way!

[ian]

Went to check the under bonnet fluids this morning and the bonnet won't open.

Lever works without much tension but can hear something moving under the bonnet. Tried the lever open position and pushing the bonnet to no avail. Done a quick search of the site and web but can find nothing definitive about fixing this issue. Removed the lever (one screw) but can't readily see the cable - the lever is attached to a knurled mechanism that seems to be working OK, to which I assume the cable is attached.

I'm guessing that either the main or supplementary cable has failed in some way (I keep the locking mechanism well greased). At least it didn't fail when I needed to add oil.

Car booked in to garage for Friday. Will pass on the snag/fix when known, likely something that could affect others at some stage.

[paulwirral]

Mine did that when I had it , the plastic housing had broken on the secondary cable where it slots in , pain in the Arse job I ended up with my arm up the engine bay to grab one cable and release one side the popped the grill out and managed to release the other with a long screwdriver , my arm looked like I'd been taken down by a police dog by the time I got it open , good luck

[ian]

Just heard from the garage that the cables have stretched and need replacing. Also recommending that the locks be replaced. Joy of a 15 year old car I suppose!

[kwoffa]

I think the Bonnet locks and cable is one item,of course i could be wrong,i did have an issue with mine,but after a soaking with WD40 and a tug it cleaned up well,never had another issue.

[ian]

Normality is restored, bonnet now opens beautifully.

Primary release cable found to be corroded and stretched. Bonnet catches (despite my regular greasing!) in poor condition (may have contributed to stretching?)

Cable with mechanism (51238397989), bonnet release cable (52231977391), and bonnet locks (51231977635/6) replaced. £18.41, £11.51, £10.70 (x2) respectively, plus VAT. Good prices I thought.

Access to locked down bonnet was from underneath, removing under trays/trims to access release mechanism.

Given the relatively low price of the parts, it may be worth these being replaced on cars that still have originals. Preventative maintenance (one of my compulsions) did not work in this case. They lasted 15 years and then failed dramatically. Food for thought.

[rsk289]

I replaced cables and latches on mine a couple of years ago.
There's a lot of tension on the mechanism with the double catches. Makes me flinch every time I open the bonnet.

Roger