|
There are two possible reasons:
1) the catch isn't freely moving, because either it's so full of old, hardened grease that it's stuck or frozen; or the cable is not sliding easily (already mentioned by another); or maybe the spring has failed.
Also, check that the pin (on the hood) and its spring are also properly lubricated -- you can push (compress) the spring with a long socket of appropriate size to test this.
2) the catch is misaligned, and the pin (and spring) are not slipping down into the heart of the catch.
Is this a newly acquired car, or have you had it a long time and this problem has suddenly arisen. (Maybe the reason it's so full of grease -- maybe suspiciously too much?) is that the previous owner was trying to hide the problem to sell it to you).
In any case, here's what I would do (and have done as preventive maintenance upon acquiring a used car to prevent lock problems). I take out the catch and clean it out thoroughly and relubricate it (sparingly). It's really easy.
You only need to remove three bolts (around the catch), 10 or 12mm head size.
Be sure to first mark their positions (in case the catch is properly aligned, to put it back the same way).
After you remove those three fasteners, note (and write down) how the cable wire is fastened to the catch (to put it back the same way).
Then take the free catch and put it in a container with a solvent (I use CRC's BrakeKleen -- just spray enough in a container to fill it). Slosh it around, use toothpicks to dislodge the stubborn old grease and gravel inside -- unfortunately, the catch mechanism can't be disassembled -- and be sure the catch mechanism moves easily. You can push against its built-in spring with a finger to test. And then regrease with a good lubricant. I use sunroof lubricant, but others also like white lithium grease. Just don't use too much.
Also check the cable to see that it slides easily.
Then reassemble -- hopefully, everything will run smoothly.
I've done this four times (on the last four 240s I've bought) -- it's easier than it sounds from these instructions. It's not rocket science, and the only tools you need are the aforementioned socket and ratchet for the three bolts.
|
