Hatch on my 98 OBW is getting stuck.

 

Ok this has happened twice now. First time i removed enough of the door panel so i could see the latch. Then i used a screwdriver to push down on the latch and the wagen hatch would open.

 

Any advice? I assume this will get worse. Any lubrication recommended? Or a pre-emptive replacement?

 

Thanks in advance.

 

3 of 4 minor issues going on right now. I guess to be expected as car has 170K!

My guess is that your latch handle is rusted. I had this problem, kept lubing and lubing it with various stuff, but the lube wouldn't last long. It would eventually bind up again.

 

About a month ago, I replaced the latch handle to permanently fix the problem. A new latch handle cost about $35 on line. It is an easy self install.

This is a very typical sooby issue. Best way to cure it is to spend 20-30 dollars and replace the exterior handle. I even replaced the licnse plate lights at the same time and all the screws. Otherwise you will keep lubing it and at some point that wont work anymore.

 

 

nipper

not really sure why this works , but push the hand in towards the car , seems to pull out over time and just lifting up won't work , grap ahold of outer part and push in on the handle part with your thumbs , always works for me lasts a couple of months then sticks and have to do it again but an easy fix

My '03 is starting to have problems with opening the hatch.

 

On mine the handle is not returning fully, so if I give it just a little 'push' all the way to the normal (rest) position, it clicks and is good to go.

 

Do you pull the cover off the inside of the hatch to access it, or do you pull the 2 screws that hold the hatch handle/license plate lights?

 

 

Dave

Hey just wanted to add my comment.

 

Someone had suggested pushing on the center of the handle rather than pulling up and that worked! I will lube the handle/hinge/lock/etc.

 

thanks for the fine suggestions.