Trunk Lid Latch Actuator
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Driver
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 179
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From: CA
Trunk Lid Latch Actuator
Trunk lid not closing (the small c-shape dealie doesn't retract so when the lid is closed it just bounces off the striker). A mechanic who looked at it told me there was a spring that controls whether that part retracts, and if that is shot then I need to replace the whole thing.
There is no 'motor' in the actuator, correct? Is spending $370 on a new lid latch actuator the only option? I can get a used one off eBay for less, but then there would be no guarantee that one will last either. I would rather fix the one that is in there and if that is not possible then just buy new.
I can insert the key in the trunk lock and turn it. I removed a part of the trunk liner and can see that the actuator 'turns' when I turn the key. So that's working. There is a thin metal rod that comes out of the actuator, but I cannot see the other end of it, which is where I suspect the problem is. I was just wondering if anyone here has had this thing apart and knows where this 'spring' is? If so, is this something that is fixable? It isn't the fuse -- already checked that.
There is no 'motor' in the actuator, correct? Is spending $370 on a new lid latch actuator the only option? I can get a used one off eBay for less, but then there would be no guarantee that one will last either. I would rather fix the one that is in there and if that is not possible then just buy new.
I can insert the key in the trunk lock and turn it. I removed a part of the trunk liner and can see that the actuator 'turns' when I turn the key. So that's working. There is a thin metal rod that comes out of the actuator, but I cannot see the other end of it, which is where I suspect the problem is. I was just wondering if anyone here has had this thing apart and knows where this 'spring' is? If so, is this something that is fixable? It isn't the fuse -- already checked that.
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Rookie
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 54
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From: NH
Any update on this? I have a 1995 LS400 and I have the exact same problem going on. I can stick a screwdriver in the latch mounted on the tank to act like the striker mounted on the body behind the bumper and it grabs it only if it's manually pushed in there. Then it will release by the trunk pop switch in front on the left knee (when sitting in the drivers seat). I am going to try and see if the latches are adjustable and go from there. I have a suspicion that the motor is bad and that's why I can get it to latch by manually putting a screwdriver in place but the popper feature is still good.
Am I correct when I say that by design, the trunk gets "sucked" in by that motor when closed?
Am I correct when I say that by design, the trunk gets "sucked" in by that motor when closed?
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Pit Crew
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 181
Likes: 26
From: CA
Any update on this? I have a 1995 LS400 and I have the exact same problem going on. I can stick a screwdriver in the latch mounted on the tank to act like the striker mounted on the body behind the bumper and it grabs it only if it's manually pushed in there. Then it will release by the trunk pop switch in front on the left knee (when sitting in the drivers seat). I am going to try and see if the latches are adjustable and go from there. I have a suspicion that the motor is bad and that's why I can get it to latch by manually putting a screwdriver in place but the popper feature is still good.
Am I correct when I say that by design, the trunk gets "sucked" in by that motor when closed?
Am I correct when I say that by design, the trunk gets "sucked" in by that motor when closed?
But dont ask this seller who appears to have lost his keys and had to get into the trunk. HAAA!
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/cto/4413144234.html
Last edited by dveneman; Apr 10, 2014 at 09:05 AM.
Pole Position
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 397
Likes: 1
From: Oregon
I am not qualified to say how to repair your trunk opener.
But dont ask this seller who appears to have lost his keys and had to get into the trunk. HAAA!
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/cto/4413144234.html
But dont ask this seller who appears to have lost his keys and had to get into the trunk. HAAA!
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/cto/4413144234.html
I dont want to live on this planet anymore..........
I dont think ive EVER needed in my trunk bad enough to damage the body.... If anything, I would punch out the window and remove the rear seats. I think this guy was hiding his stash in the trunk and the local less than favorables tried to crowbar in.... For the record I have had to punch out a window before..... $110 for the window vs. smashing up my paint and body, Ill take the window anyday.
I dont want to live on this planet anymore..........
I dont think ive EVER needed in my trunk bad enough to damage the body.... If anything, I would punch out the window and remove the rear seats. I think this guy was hiding his stash in the trunk and the local less than favorables tried to crowbar in.... For the record I have had to punch out a window before..... $110 for the window vs. smashing up my paint and body, Ill take the window anyday.
I dont think ive EVER needed in my trunk bad enough to damage the body.... If anything, I would punch out the window and remove the rear seats. I think this guy was hiding his stash in the trunk and the local less than favorables tried to crowbar in.... For the record I have had to punch out a window before..... $110 for the window vs. smashing up my paint and body, Ill take the window anyday.
I doubt that person was trying to get into their trunk, it looks like some kind of accident but who knows. You can't access the trunk off an LS through the back seat since that is where the gas tank is located.
Last edited by sha4000; Apr 14, 2014 at 10:50 AM.
Wow I stand corrected, I did not see the link. They obviously forced their way into the trunk. It should be a crime what they did lol. They would have come out cheaper and been able to sell that car for more. Someone in the area should pick it up for a parts car.
Pit Crew
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 181
Likes: 26
From: CA
Wish they would have owned a Galant.
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