Technical bonnet release

[SamuraiDragon]

i have noticed that my bonnet release handle is a little slack and sticks out quite a bit from its original position as if its been pulled without pulling it. hope that makes sense... anyways, i was wondering if this would be due to the cable needing adjustment, and if so, how do i do that... or would i need to replace the cable and handle altogether. the bonnet still pops when i pull the handle but feels slack and im worried that it might brake off or something.

 

[MikeSalt]

As far as I am aware, there is no adjustment, you just have to replace the cable. I am told that this is tricky, but better done whilst you can still open the bonnet.

 

[dave]

https://www.fiatforum.com/punto-guides/225228-punto-mk2-2b-bonnet-release-cable.html

 

[SamuraiDragon]

thanks, ive read that guide, very helpful, was just hoping i didnt need to do all that. lol oh well. as much as i love my baby, she is turning out to be a high maintenance lady... dreading the next service and what they might find...

 

[dave]

you could try just removing catch cleaning and re grease it, but like others said best to replace cable now

 

[SamuraiDragon]

hmmm, not sure if that would help with the slack in the handle tho... will just have to bite the bullet i recon.

 

[MikeSalt]

Actually, Dave has just reminded me, do give the mechanism a good clean and an oiling/greasing. I remember that my girlfriend's latch got so gummed up that the bonnet wouldn't shut properly, and there was slack in the cable because the latch wasn't able to return to the rest position. A few minute's work with plenty of WD-40 and a disused electric toothbrush soon has it cleaned up, and then a light layer of grease kept the action smooth.

 

[SamuraiDragon]

sounds like a good idea, will go try that in a bit. gotta go clean the car anyways. thanks.

 

[MikeSalt]

Grab yourself a torch too and inspect visible parts of the cable. It is unlikely that the cable will be damaged within the sheath.

 

[SamuraiDragon]

result, turns out that all it needed was a good clean. cable seems to be in pretty good shape, very slight bit of rust but thats it. took it off, cleaned it up put it back and all works fine. bonnet pops fine and handle snaps back to the correct position. saved me 30 quid and a load of hastle. :-D

 

[MikeSalt]

Neat! Just spray a little WD-40 on the cable itself to kill that corrosion and job's a good 'un. Obviously check the cable every now and again but it should be fine.