CAR VW MK5 1.9 TDI
Before i start the usual Disclaimer :
Neither i nor MK5GolfGTI will be held liable for anything that goes wrong. If you undertake this process you do so entirely at your own risk!
Bonnet latch was failing, couldn’t close bonnet so replaced it. VW quoted around £180 I did it in 30mins and cost £41.09 inc VAT. Pt number 1K1 823 509 E
Tools needed
1 x flat blade screw drive
1x T25 bit.
1 x T30 bit
1 x ratchet handle.
Gloves and WD40 optional
Remove old latch assembly
1, Unscrew the two outer torx T25 screws (one right) and the unclip the two inner fastenings (one left). The grill should then lift off.
2, Disconnect bonnet catch lead, there are some clips to undo these are apparent when you remove lock. behind RH light.
3, Disconnect bonnet release cable, I pulled it off the metal clips this gave me enough room, but I suspect the cable may be a bit stretched.
4, Unscrew the three T30 torx bolts holding the bonnet latch mechanism in place noting each bolt's position. You should now be able to lift the latch mechanism out far enough to allow you to unhook the release cable.
Note how the plastic guide attached to the end of the release cable attaches to the underside of the latch mechanism before releasing.
Lift the latch assembly out completely pulling the contact switch lead with it. You may need to waggle the lead in order to help it clear any obstacles. You can poke your fingers through from the front to help do this.
This is why you note the position of the bolts.
Refitting is essentially the reversal of removal.
1, Connect release cable to new new bonnet latch.
Ensure that the plastic guide attached to the end of the release cable is clipped on to the new latch mechanism.
2, Reconnect contact switch lead.
Feed the contact switch lead back towards the socket behind the headlight. Plug the contact switch plug into the socket and push back into it's mounting.
3, Reconnect bonnet release cable if you removed it if not just slide metal clips back onto shelf.
4, Screw new latch mechanism in place. Make sure you seat the latch mech and is central to the bonet lug. If not your bonnet wont close.
Ensure that the plastic guide attached to the end of the release cable does not become detached on fitting.
Test operation of bonnet release.
Do this BEFORE putting the radiator grill back, just in case the bonnet release does not work. If this happens the bonnet can still be opened by unscrewing the bolts holding the latch mechanism in place, lifting the bonnet slightly and poking the exposed latch mechanism with a screwdriver. If your bonnet fails to lock down then move the lock mech slightly till the bonnet lug is central over the catch.
5, Replace radiator grill.
You may have a warning that RH bulb not working, just drive a short distance and it will go off.
Happy days
