How to Repair the Glove Compartment Latch?
2 Answers
Open the glove box to see the latch, which can be easily removed by pulling it outward with your hand. Then, slowly squeeze both sides towards the middle to take the glove compartment down. Replace the latch of the glove compartment and then reinstall the glove compartment.
I saw the glove compartment latch was broken, and I've encountered this issue before, having fixed it myself a few times. The simplest solution is to check if the latch is stuck. Use a flashlight to illuminate the inside of the glove compartment and carefully observe the locking mechanism. If it's stuck, gently pry it with a small screwdriver or clean out dust and debris from the gaps with a tissue—avoid using too much force to prevent scratching the plastic. You can also apply a bit of WD-40 lubricant to the lock mechanism to make it smoother. If the spring is broken or parts have loosened due to aging, it's a bit more troublesome. You'll need to remove the glove compartment door panel to inspect the internal structure, possibly requiring a replacement of a small spring or the entire latch assembly. Online parts are cheap; just buy one that fits your car model and install it yourself. But don't rush to unscrew anything—first, look up tutorial videos to learn the steps. Regularly wiping the compartment door with a damp cloth can prevent dust buildup and prolong its lifespan. Just be careful not to damage the car.
