Mondeo bonnet release stuck

[mybrainhurts]

Previous model Mondeo.

Key turned left releases the bonnet, but it still holds when I turn the key to the right.

Can't get the bonnet up. What's going on here, then...?

[Baffled Spoon]

Mechanism is probably stiffened up. Apply liberal quantities of WD40 in the catch area after you have released the bonnet on the first twist, wait for a couple of minutes and hope for the best. Maybe also worth trying pushing the bonnet down a bit (but not enough for it to catch again) while turning the key to position 2 - it may help reduce friction against the second catch.

[mybrainhurts]

Ta, I doused it in WD40 earlier. Trying it on the morrow now...

I fear something has come adrift. There's no stiffness and it makes a nice clunk when turned.

I can see I'm going to have to smash the grille to get in...bugger.

[mybrainhurts]

Update...

My local friendly bodyshop owner grasped the bottom right of the grille and pulled it away from the bumper.

Then repeated the other side.

Then popped the retaining screws from underneath with a screwdriver.

Then pulled the grille out, breaking the underbonet bit that goes round the latch. Doesn't matter, can't be seen.

Then manipulated the latch by hand until it released.

Having split the lock barrel and latch, it appears the plastic shaft connecting them had been misfitted at some time.

Turned it through 180deg, refitted, and all is well.

Took the new latch back to the dealer for a £42 refund.

Deep joy...

Prior suggested remedies....

Ford dealer...

Cut the grille, push hand through, release latch, fit new latch, fit new grille. Parts = £80-90.

Garage that fitted new clutch...

Drill out lock barrel. Two hours labour (must be careful). New barrel = £lots, because the dealer has to build it up round your key.

Ho, hum......