EDIT: resolved. See post 7.

I cannot get the deck lid to open on a 2007 LS 460.

I have searched and read many threads including the one in the FAQ.

The deck lid opens only 1/4 of an inch but will not open further as if there is another latch holding it closed.

I have checked the valet switch in the glove box and the problem is the same either setting it off or on.

The power unlock function (remote, switch on dash, switch on outside of trunk) only makes the beep with no unlocking at all.

The mechanical key will unlock the trunk and allow it to open 1/4" only.

The emergency release inside the trunk will do the same only allowing the deck lid to raise a tiny amount.

Pulling up on the deck lid does not free it.

Disconnecting the battery for several minutes does nothing.

Any help would be appreciated.

 

I seem to remember once reading here that someone had a similar problem and the issue was the motor/mechanism that raised the trunk lid.

 

I had that problem on my 2007 and bought a trunk motor on amazon or eBay for $350+-, and replaced it in 30 min or less. No problems whatsoever since. I don't remember how I got it open to repair it, but somehow I did..

 

Thanks for the replies.

I am asking for a big favor.

Please can someone post pictures of the latch striker, the part that stays on the bottom of the car when the deck lid is opened? Specifically I need to know if the two bolts near that area (visible from inside the trunk) are the ones that hold down the striker.

I also need to know for sure the size of those bolts. They look like 10mm but I do not want to round off any corners.

So bolt size and pictures that you think might be helpful in taking the striker loose from the ski tube.

Thanks a bunch and I do know I am asking a whole lot.

 

I can assure you that it has to do nothing with the striker latch. I recommend you remove the trunk lid cover and check the release cable that attached to the key lock, trunk motor and emergency open handle above the trunk lid for loose cable or off align. All those 3 components connected to each other for trunk release by using your remote, key, inside switch and trunk lid open and close buttons. Another way to test the cable is remove the driver side trunk lid tail lamp and put your hand inside the hole after you remove the tail lamp and try to pull the emergency release handle and see if you can hear a pop release sound. If none of the above info did not resolve the issue then you need a trunk lid motor for sure. Changing out the motor is super easy. There are only 3 bolts on the motor. I hope this helps.

 

I went out to my car to take a picture for you, but the bolts are not visible. On my car there is a plastic piece that surrounds the latch. It pivots down, but I can't see the bolts beneath it. I suspect you would have to remove the large molding along the bottom lid of the trunk in order to access it.

 

Issue resolved.

Thanks to all who posted.

$390 part from eBay and everything works as it should.

Unbolting the striker through the ski tube releases the deck lid and then the failed latch can be easily removed as many others have posted.

Tip: If you ever make a huge extension out of all of your little extensions for your socket, tape them together. Do not rely upon friction to hold the extensions together.

@lieup you have grossly over estimated what I am capable of while working through the ski tube. But thanks none-the-less.