92 Q trunk release and lock

[greg_atlanta]

I can live without one or the other, but right now both are acting up.

The trunk release stopped working about a month ago. I tried spraying everything down with WD-40 but that didn't help. I can hear the switch engaging (yes, the button the glove compartment is turned on) but the trunk stays shut. What's the fix for this?

Also, the lock is getting gummy and it's hard to get the key in the last 1/4". Since I've owned the car I've been either using a lock spray with teflon and graphite or WD-40. I figured I'd try a lock oil but the guy at the hardware store recommended a graphite powder. That didn't work so great since the powder gets stuck in the grooves of the key (and gets your hands dirty).

I removed the trunk lid liner but it wasn't clear how to remove the lock.... and even if I got it out, not sure how to clean it. Should I try a penetrating oil? Or is there something better?

Thanks,

Greg

[Q451990]

Surprisingly enough... for what it's worth... my locksmith prefers WD-40 for the wafer style locks like on the Qs. I'm still not convinced that WD-40 is good for anything except a release agent for rusted bolts - but that's what he says. You might try a liquid graphite spray.... I think it's called Lock-eze. Still a little messy, but it should get up in there better than the powder.

The fix for your trunk latch is probably replacing the release mechanism. Seems like they cost about $70 from Joe. Interestingly enough, the one on Q2 died, and I swapped it with Q1 after the wreck... so the one in my low mileage Q has over 200K of use on it.

This solenoid controls a "flapper" that swings over to push something on the trunk lid latch that can also get bent a little to the right... so if you can see it moving nicely, but it's just not moving... try bending that to the left a little.

I wonder if any of T3's fleet of junkers has a good one that they would sell to you? They're a pretty rare failure item.

Good seeing you here again!

Heath

[greg_atlanta]

Thanks... I got the number of a traveling locksmith from T3 Decatur and will see what they say. Before I call them, is lock oil (penetrating oil) a bad idea?

I'm getting the new car bug, but can't quite fall in love with the new G35 (the cell phone kills the key thing doesn't help), like the BMW 328i but too cramped in back (and terrified of run flat tire cost + what to expect after the warranty is up), may settle on a Maxima for bang-for-the-buck (but it's still awkward looking from more than one angle). So back to ole Q, even without A/C.

[StarPD]

Thanks... I got the number of a traveling locksmith from T3 Decatur and will see what they say. Before I call them, is lock oil (penetrating oil) a bad idea?

I'm getting the new car bug, but can't quite fall in love with the new G35 (the cell phone kills the key thing doesn't help), like the BMW 328i but too cramped in back (and terrified of run flat tire cost + what to expect after the warranty is up), may settle on a Maxima for bang-for-the-buck (but it's still awkward looking from more than one angle). So back to ole Q, even without A/C.

If you haven't already, be sure to drive a new G35, then the Maxima.The G35 is a GREAT car in all respects. Not a Q, or even an M, but a terrific car in its own right. I drove a 2007 loaner when my '05 Q was in the shop, and I was quite impressed. Price difference between a Maxima and a base G35 isn't that terribly great, and the resale on the G is considerably better. All in all, it's a much better value AND IT'S REAR WHEEL DRIVE.

Can you tell I loathe front wheel drive with a passion?

Oh yeah, and FWIW, the G will stay awful close to a Q or an M in acceleration and handling, if not even with them. They are FFFFFFFFast.

[greg_atlanta]

Locksmith got everything fixed. The trunk lock was fine, only problem was the two keys I was using (I have rotated between then since Dec 99) were both worn. I have a 3rd key for backup, and 4th key hidden on the car. I would have been OK if I just switched to the 3rd key on my own.

When the locksmith put the 4th key in the driver's door the key got stuck, so he had to cut the key and take the lock out (not easy). He removed the security device that slides into the hole in the middle of the key, said it was worn and that it's not necessary (only purpose was to prevent picking the locks, but car is easy to break into other ways).

He said the most common failure item on the Q is the ignition, but the fix is to get a new key cut before the lock fails. Getting new keys cut about every 5 years is a good idea.

Heath was right about the trunk release. Locksmith suggested the actuator (motor) might be weak, but the lever which triggers the trunk was bent and worn (the metal was chewed up). He bent the lever to the left (if you're facing the trunk) with a screwdriver and all is OK now.

[greg_atlanta]

If you haven't already, be sure to drive a new G35, then the Maxima. The G35 is a GREAT car in all respects.

I've driven the '07 G twice. Sport model seats were weird (the inflatable bolsters are hard as a rock whether inflated or deflated) and the sport model steering was awkwardly heavy. The base model seats are OK but quite narrow compared to the Q (or the Maxima) -- but need to take measurements to see if perception matches reality. The new G has a little more headroom than the old G, but I'd probably want one without a sunroof... which is very hard to find. Backseat room is tight for 6 footers, so not sure I'd be happy with the car long term. Can't get excited about the M35 unless it's well under $20K used.

I'd get a base/cloth Maxima if the price were under $25K... which is very possible right now. It has a lot more room, rides a little better than the earlier models, and CVT is a new experience. If I get a Maxima as a people hauler, it's a good excuse to buy a 2nd fun car 3-4 years later. We'll see....

But the old Q is still dreamy and keeps on going......

[greg_atlanta]

Also, locksmith said WD-40 is great for cleaning locks. Graphite powder is bad (builds up in the springs). Oil is bad. A spray with teflon and liquid graphite is the best thing to use.