Hatch latch stuck, can’t manually open with back panel removed… HELP?

[FLynFish]

Our rear hatch stuck closed. I did all the research and have tried all the reset methods mentioned in the forums or on YouTube.

Now we’ve pulled the back plastic panel off and have been trying to manually release the latch per the videos, to no avail. The door won’t budge.

There’s nothing I can see wedged into the door and track sprayed a ton of Kroil on it.
When pressing the trunk release button, I can see both mechanism levers moving and it sounds like it’s working.
I can manually pull up on both latches but it does not release.

I can’t figure out if the latch broke closed, or if maybe the struts failed in the closed position…. We can’t budge it.


Any thoughts what it could be or how to open the hatch?

 

[MikeinNH67]

When is the last time it worked? Where did you spray the lube? The only track in there is for the window not the hatch latch.

Most likely the latch is rusted shut. If you pull on the arm near the center of the door you may be able to kick it open. Of course it probably won't stay closed after that.

 

[AuSeeker]

The latch may not be able to release because of too much pressure on it, try pushing in hard on the hatch while trying to get the latch to release, this has worked for some others with similar issues, hopefully it will help get yours opened, it may help to have another person to help.