Boot lock not working with remote

[jamespaulley]

Hi. I have just bought a used Golf MK4. The boot won't unlock with the remote. The key opens the boot by turning the key 45 degrees but the key only comes out in the horizontal position. I cannot get the key to turn vertical, which I understand is the position needed to allow remote unlocking. I've tried a bit of WD40 in the lock but no luck. The boot button on the remote seems to do nothing but the main unlock button does produce a mechanical sound in the boot lock mechanism. One of the screws on the boot inner cover seems to be missing so I guess someone's been in there at some point. Perhaps they've deliberately disabled the ability to turn the key to the vertical position? Any advice appreciated! Thanks!

[Wazzzer]

Sounds like the classic seized mechanism. You'll need to get the panel off inside and see what's occurring when the solenoid is activated. It may also need WD inside. Be warned you may find your rear wash mechanism is also shot as they leak over the boot latch causing this type of failure

[jamespaulley]

Many thanks. Any advice on getting the boot inner panel off? Rear washers seem to be working...

[Wazzzer]

one screw inside each handle, then pull very hard and it will eventually pop off. The washers can look like they're working fine but still leak. Does your washer jet follow the wiper blade or spray up directly?

[jamespaulley]

one screw inside each handle, then pull very hard and it will eventually pop off. The washers can look like they're working fine but still leak. Does your washer jet follow the wiper blade or spray up directly?

Washer jet sprays up directly.

I got the panel off. It all looks pretty good in there. Can't see any evidence of rust or leaking. It's just that the key won't turn to the vertical position, only horizontal and 45 degrees clockwise of horizontal. I don't really know if I should be trying to get the key into the vertical position by turning it anti-clockwise or clockwise, but I think it's anti-clockwise? Could someone have modified the lock to disable something?

Would more photos be of help?

http://s13.postimg.org/ndi1xfuvb/IMG_0029.jpg

[jamespaulley]

I had one last go at blasting a bit of WD40 in there and fiddling with the key and it just suddenly turned back anti clockwise into the vertical position! I've just left it like that for now as I fear if I turn the lock again it won't go back to vertical, which is the most useful position for me. Thanks for your help with this, appreciate it.

One unrelated question I have is: How's best to find out what tyre pressure I need? I can't find a sticker around the driver's door, or seem to be able to find anything in the manual. Cheers.

[Wazzzer]

No problem mate, nice to hear the washer jet is all good too

Tyre pressures are on the inside of the fuel flap

[jamespaulley]

No problem mate, nice to hear the washer jet is all good too

Tyre pressures are on the inside of the fuel flap

Cheers!