bonnet catch dont let it "catch" you out

[paul vp uk]

Just a note had a difficulty opening the bonnet today on my vito.
the releace catch was full off dried grease !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
removed the old "clag" with brake cleaner (spray type) then put fresh oil on it and worked it back and forward.
Moved the catch a couple mil to the right looking at engine from road leaning in engine bay.
Job sorted.
it took alot of banging and cursing to get the stuck bonnet open
so this is hopefull a little job to stop it happening to anybody else .
regards paul vp

 

[television]

Thanks paul, these things always get over looked

 

[paul vp uk]

you are so right Malcolm.
cheers bud

 

[wireman]

A worthy tip indeed which also applies to any vehicle since the latch may stick in the other position resulting in the bonnet lifting fully open at speed.

This has happened to a large number of Renault Clio's until a recall and an addition to the service schedule to lubricate the latch and the safety catch got it sorted.

 

[paul vp uk]

well its too hot for my vito

bugger if the bonnet catch is hard to pull again,
in this heat the greace on the bonnet hidge is cooked.
making the opening stiff.
just a warning guys and gals high melting point geace onthose bonnets catches after a good douse of brake cleaner to dissolve the old sticky stuff.
hope this helps someone.
cheers paul gloucester