faulty boot release catch...

[hrjs]

I have an S3C with an electric boot release mechanism operated by a button under the steering wheel. I think there must be a faulty connection as the mechanism rarely operates at the first press of the button, and often requires several. It's getting worse. Any ideas? And when the inevitable happens, is the advice in Heath's bible sound? Is that REALLY where you look to find the wire?

[greenv8s]

When it doesn't work, what are the symptoms? If the solenoid operates but the boot won't open this implies a mechnical fault at the lock. If the solenoid doesn't operate, this implies an electrical fault which can be tracked down easily enough.

[hrjs]

Thanks for your help. I suspect that the solenoid is working, because even when the boot won't open, I can hear a clicking sound coming from the back of the car when I press the button. I suppose that suggests mechanical rather than electrical failure, does it?

Any comments on the Heath approach to self-help?

[RichardR]

hrjs said:

I suspect that the solenoid is working, because even when the boot won't open, I can hear a clicking sound coming from the back of the car when I press the button.

There's a small piece of bent wire that connects the solenoid to the boot catch, which fell off on mine and meant the boot wouldn't open at all. If you look up under the catch, everything's on display and easy to see, and you should be able to see if the wire's coming loose. The clicking does indeed indicate that the solenoid's operating correctly.

hrjs said:

Is that REALLY where you look to find the wire?

Yes, and check it's in place before it's too late (i.e. don't do what I did! )!!