Help! There must be a simple fix for this...

[shiltonsr]

2002 Park Avenue
I threw my computer bag in the trunk and attempted to shut it but it bounced back open--it seems that the handle of my computer bag was laying across the latch hook mounted in the trunk, blocking the latch on the trunk lid from engaging. I moved the bag, attempted to close again and the trunk lid would not latch and just bounced open. Occasionally this would happen on one of my doors on a Chrysler van that I had and I simply pulled up on the door handle and flipped the catch back with a screw driver at the same time and all was good. I tried similar things here like turning the key while trying to push the latch with a screw driver but to no avail. I also tried pulling on the emergency release while working the latch as well as pushing the electronic trunk release, again to no avail. DOES ANYONE KNOW THE TRICK??? I have read all about ensuring the ground wire is attached, etc.... but this isn't an electrical problem as the mechanism moves when pushing the button. Right now I will tie wrap closed but any help is appreciated!

 

[BuickGirlFromMars]

Is your latch car side bent? my 1st park avenue bent the hood latch when i didnt actually hit the hood with anything, just snow on the front bumper lower parts and a fender. The latch isnt like its HD or anything, shoudl have adjustment. Also to check, is the trunk closing straight down or does it have a bias one side or other? the tension rods might need adjustment

 

[BuickGirlFromMars]

the striker should have a 90 degree bend and should be relatively standing straight up. check for twisted or bent over. when the force of the lid comes down, and the striker is naturally crooked a tiny bit, all the force distributed over the top will bend it down. its got three bolts, adjustable, and if its bent, i would find another but you could bend it back carefully for now

 

[G-331068]

the striker should have a 90 degree bend and should be relatively standing straight up. check for twisted or bent over. when the force of the lid comes down, and the striker is naturally crooked a tiny bit, all the force distributed over the top will bend it down. its got three bolts, adjustable, and if its bent, i would find another but you could bend it back carefully for now

That was it! Thanks.

 

[smooth ride]

Hit the trunk release button may be stuck