Bonnet cable snapped?

[Natheg]

Hi

I have a 2016 GTD. Went to open the bonnet yesterday to check the oil etc. The cable has either snapped or somehow detached itself under the bonnet and I am now unable to open it.

Has anybody ever had to deal with this or have any advice on how to open the bonnet without damaging anything?

Thanks in advance

[Paul70]

Exactly the same thing happened to me. I managed to open the bonnet but it was a hassle. Requires access via the front right wheel arch, so the wheel and the arch liner needs to be removed and then using an old metal coat hanger moulded into shape or something similar feel for the catch with the end of the hanger (shaped into a hook) and pull to mimic the movement of the lever - it took around an hour. The plastic mechanism which breaks is a weak point and once replaced should be secured with a few wire ties.

[Paul70]

A few good videos on you tube and check the position of the catch with MK7 images so you know where to aim with the tool you prepared

[Talk-torque]

The mod to prevent this came up on here recently, in the “What Have You Done To Your Mk7 Today?” thread. This link to another forum was posted there, so I will add it here to make it easier for anyone interested to see.

https://www.golfmk7.com/forums/index.php?threads/psa-cable-tie-your-bonnet-release-cable-junction-box.365541/

[Natheg]

Thanks guys. I will give it a go at the weekend 🤞

[monsta]

Just had mine replaced after trying to get it open myself (VW tech recommended taking the undertray off and the offside intercooler hose instead of the wheel lining approach).  Unfortunately the cable had snapped by the cause was a seized bonnet lock.  £180 later it's all sorted. 

[Vaporise]

Unreliable bonnet release mechanisms have been a problem ever since at least the Mk5, I'm pretty sure the mechanism is basically unchanged, which is so stupid. I cable tied my housing thing, as per the link above, but it was a tight squeeze and half broke one of the pegs holding it onto the engine bay, but bodged it back on with a bit of tape

[Natheg]

Well...... I managed to get the bonnet open a few weeks ago - as with Vaporise & Monsta, the cable has snapped  . The replacement cable finally turned up a few days ago.

Had a quick look yesterday and it looks like the bumper may have to come off to replace it   

Has anyone had to replace the front section of the cable themselves?

Currently driving round with the front grill removed