I only notice a slight difference in how the handle feels between when locked and unlocked, but it doesn't release the latch. What could've broken or stretched and how do I release the latch without the handle to fix it?

I think that small cover on the trim panel inside allows me to release the latch. Correct?

 

It doesn't open the hatch, it unlocks the hatch in case the remote unlock system fails.

 

I'm having a similar issue.

-I unlock the hatch
-When I try to open the latch moves back and forth but the door doesn't open. The latch doesn't want to spring back to the close position either.
-It usually works after locking/unlocking/locking/unlocking

Seems like it might need some lubrication, but I'm not sure.

 

My "fix" is to make sure the handle returns to its starting position after I open the hatch. Either the spring isn't working or it's just getting sticky in there. I meant to ask the dealer about it at my last appointment but I forgot.

 

its the spring i already broke mines lol i open and close it at least 10-15 times a day took to dealer they replace it free

 

This is a very common problem on the Jazz, its usually not a faulty part as such, its caused by the handle being left in a half open position, the handle on the boot lid seizes and is being held slightly open, this prevents the central locking from unlocking it.

Having spent ages fiddling inside the boot and not getting it open i found this post and hey presto it worked first time !!

First you need to open the tailgate, you will need to lock the car with all the doors shut then push the outside tailgate lid handle firmly back (the opposite way to what you would do to open the boot) then unlock the car with the remote button/key ... the boot should now open as normal. To fix this, you will need to spray WD40 on to each side of the handle where it pivots and work it back and forth, it can take a bit of time working it to get it to free up, keep spraying it with oil until its free enough to spring back by its self and operate as normal, once it is spray a bit of grease up there to prevent it happening again. Its caused by the handle not springing back due to corrosion on the pivot.

Worked for me first time.

 

Mine JUST started doing this during the winter months.

I'll have to see if lubricating the pins helps aid in this hassle.

 

t16Tomcat Thanks, the procedure you recommended worked like a charm.

 

I know it's fine years later, but i wanna +3 that t16tomcat's method worked really on my GD. I was trying to play around in the bungus-hole for half an hour before i found his post, too me like two minutes or less doing it his way.

 

I had the same issue in my '09 fit sport, and fixed it in an hour by purchasing and installing a new latch handle. I bought one for $16.99 on ebay. Replacing the handle does require disassembling the door somewhat, as outlined in . My rear latch has been working no problems ever since. After the handle being stuck for a really long time, it was refreshing to reach for it and it just *opens* without any effort.

Hope this helps!

 

Hey, hey, hey!!! I blew mine out then lubed it with CLP and it works like new! A lot of gravel road dust came out with application of the compressed air.
Thanks everybody.
I bought a replacement handle off Amazon. It was ~$20. I'll just keep it for back-up.