Bonnet release handle problem

Hi all,

Just went to check my coolant level on my 61 plate C3 and instantly found that the handle won't release the bonnet. It just feels totally slack, like the cable isn't connected, although I think the bonnet opens a fraction as when I push down on the bonnet after trying the handle there is a feint pinging noise. My handle is the sort where you have to open the passenger door to access, as in this thread:

viewtopic.php/questions-about-a-citroen ... t3884.html

That thread suggests it can be quite easy to sort, but any advice/walkthrough is much appreciated. I have tried to have a bit of a look around but didn't want to force the plastic surround in fear of snapping some lugs etc. I'm guessing there is a technique, as in the above linked thread that section has been removed.

Anyway, if anyone has any DIY suggestions before I think about booking it into the garage, that'd be great. Cheers.

Dazza wrote: ↑Sat Apr 17, 2021 4:25 pm Hi all,

Just went to check my coolant level on my 61 plate C3 and instantly found that the handle won't release the bonnet. It just feels totally slack, like the cable isn't connected, although I think the bonnet opens a fraction as when I push down on the bonnet after trying the handle there is a feint pinging noise. My handle is the sort where you have to open the passenger door to access, as in this thread:

viewtopic.php/questions-about-a-citroen ... t3884.html

That thread suggests it can be quite easy to sort, but any advice/walkthrough is much appreciated. I have tried to have a bit of a look around but didn't want to force the plastic surround in fear of snapping some lugs etc. I'm guessing there is a technique, as in the above linked thread that section has been removed.

Anyway, if anyone has any DIY suggestions before I think about booking it into the garage, that'd be great. Cheers.

Hi Dazza

The bonnet release on mine is different to yours but the plastics are very similar.

The plastic is pretty tough and any clips that are used will break and they are easily replaced.

The door seal pulls off and this often holds plastics in place.


Have a go at removing the plastic trim, its tough. From there you can have a better view of what has happened and even add some clear pictures of your bonnet release handle for further assistance.

Thanks for the quick reply, Arfur - much appreciated.

I will have a go at removing the trim and will report back later, hopefully with a picture or two!

Cheers,

Dazza

Well, I've spent a good half an hour or so on this and have made little progress - unless you count red-raw fingers as an achievement! It's very frustrating, as I'd like to have a bit of a go myself before booking it in somewhere, but I think I may have to leave it there for today. Assuming I book it in and it gets fixed, I'll post an update here with the details.

Thanks as always, Arfur

Just an update on this: I took the car to the garage yesterday, and after a fair amount of time and effort they got the bonnet open. The bonnet cable was in good condition, but the problem was with the bonnet catch, which needs replacing. A new one from Citroen is just under £30, so with that and the labour it will be around £180 when I collect the car later on today. Can't complain too much, given that in the 5 years I've had the car I've not had to book it in for anything other than its annual service & MOT (and a new battery a couple of years ago).