I'm pretty sure the hatch release mechanism broke on my 2015 Honda Fit this morning, as something similar happened with my previous vehicle (a Chevy Colorado) three years ago. I'm a window washing, so I open and close the hatch several times a day. Hence it makes sense that I would wear it out faster than the usual owner.

Anyway, I went to open the hatch and it wouldn't budge. The handle didn't spring back after I pulled it, leading me to believe something is broken inside.

Anyone know if these can be replaced without too much trouble by a layman?

 

Google it. I watched a Youtube video on this exact topic last night. GE Fits but I would be surprised if it is not the same issue.

 

Thanks, fujisawa. I watched a video, then went to the car to see if I could make anything happen. I grabbed the rear hatch latch, pulled, and the damn thing opened as if nothing had ever been wrong. Perhaps something was stuck and the vibration of driving unstuck it.

 

Mine did this to me a few months ago. Climb in the back and remove the little cover that is over the lock mechanism. You will be able to release the door that way and inspect it better. Mine just needed some lube and was good to go hopefully yours just needs that too.

 

yah, my old 09 GE had dis problem too. mainly from not washing da car enough in winter and salt corroded the handle mechanism. i blasted it with WD40 and followed up with white lithium grease. it worked for a long while.. enough to trade the thing in for da GK which turned out to be a bigger problem in its entirety..

 

yes, the vibration of driving can definitely fix it. problem is not knowing when it will happen! drove to Logan Airport, parked between two big pickups, realized Wife's full-size suitcase was going to be held hostage in the trunk for a while because the hatch wouldn't release. Or, when I went and bought ten bags of mulch and drove home. Not sure why it can't seize up when all I need from the trunk is a single water bottle.

 

Do you advise preventative lubing of that hatch mechanism? I've sensed several times that the exterior release latch was sticking, although it always opened after a 2nd/3rd try.

 

sometimes when I open the hatch the gasket is sticky and I have to gently tease it until it releases because I'm afraid something will tear if I force it ... I guess I should be treating it with something, huh?

 

WD-40 does the trick . Spray and let soak overnight . Done twice a year .