STEP 1: open the trunk and remove those two screws from inside the grab handles STEP 2: remove the trim panel STEP 3: disconnect the mechanism from the handle lock There are the three pieces that need to be disconnected.
Full Answer
How do I replace the handle and latch on the hatch?
To replace the handle and latch, you will need to remove the hatch trim panel. Please see our article on hatch trim removal for further assistance. Figure 1 On the bottom center of the hatch trim panel is a small plastic access panel with aPicture of the car with an open hatch on it (red arrow).
How to open the hatch on a VW GTI MKV?
The Volkswagen GTI MkV has no mechanical connection between the handle on the hatch and the latch mechanism. There is now an electronic contact switch and actuator. Since they eliminated a direct connection you can pull to open the hatch, they did insert an emergency opening latch. Unfortunately, you need to already be in the vehicle to open it.
How do you remove the interior hatch on a Toyota Corolla?
Remove the panel by popping it out with your hands or a trim removal tool. Figure 2 Behind the panel you will see a metal latch (red arrow) that is flat on one side. Slide the latch to the left (when facing the rear) to release the hatch.
How do you remove the hatch trim on a Ford Explorer?
Figure 1 On the bottom center of the hatch trim panel is a small plastic access panel with aPicture of the car with an open hatch on it (red arrow). Remove the panel by popping it out with your hands or a trim removal tool. Figure 2 Behind the panel you will see a metal latch (red arrow) that is flat on one side.
The rear hatch lock is coded to the car and must be ordered VIN specific from Volkswagen
That being said if you are having problems with the hatch lock, tumbler or actuator there are many things that can go wrong and not all of them cost money to fix. I recommend that you remove the rear interior panels and find out what is really wrong before you order parts. Please see our article on inner rear panel removal for help.
Project Photos
Figure 1 If you are locked out of your hatch there is no way to access or remove the lock tumbler (red arrow) or handle (yellow arrow) from outside of the vehicle. You will need to remove the inner rear panels to get at the mechanisms.
