pferris

iTrader: (2)

I have to hit the hatch release button on the key fob 4-5-6-7 times to open the hatch. It is annoying.

I have searched around, and i have found on 1999+ you can add a spring to the release mechanism.. But the <1998 dont have that. Is there a solution to the problem.

I have tried adjusting the stops, but that does nothing. Am i left with replacing the mechanism with a 1999+ unit?

Nathan C

I heard it's because the TA hatch is so heavy that the spring doesn't always open the first time. My friend told me about adding the spring, and I don't see why it wouldn't work on a 98 unless it has a different opening mechanism.

M4N14C

iTrader: (3)

Had the same problem on my '99. Don't know what's different on a '98 but I just replaced my worn out spring with a bigger one and now it pops open first try.

Spartan7

iTrader: (7)

So, it it making the sound like it's trying to release and just not releasing, or not working until you hit the button multiple times?

sscamaroburn02

iTrader: (14)

Go to home depot and buy a 5/8 2.5 inch long spring. Piggyback this bigger spring onto the factory spring. Now the.hatch will pop open first time. Easy 5 minute mod

Sent from my HTC One VX using IB AutoGroup

99Bluz28

iTrader: (35)

Another possible factor is if the rear hatch support struts are worn out it'll be harder to pop the hatch.

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

^ And marginal support struts will tend to act up more when they are cold.

98boxer

iTrader: (7)

I was having the same problem with my 98 camaro. I did two things don't recall which one helped the most. I bought new shocks for the hatch from summit 12 bucks each than i just got a can of silicone grease sprayed lock mechanism and the hatch now pops open as it should. But don't expect it to launch open.

If you buy new shocks, they may not look identical and you can't compress the shock yourself even if you pressing on it against the concrete, but once they are installed they operate fine.

1 FMF

iTrader: (1)

the struts won't do anything when initially opening the hatch. if they did then it would fly up further and not rest where it does.
if i get a chance i'll post a pic. i got a replacement spring from sears hardware. piggybacking a second spring on to the oem one didn't fit for me. if you take the oem spring off you can use a couple screw drivers to get a feel for how strong it is stretching it. then match it up with a replacement from somewhere of slightly shorter length having much greater tension. that will fix your hatch release. hardest part is getting the new spring in the mechanism, will take a little bit of hand strength and needle nose pliers.

RPM WS6

iTrader: (3)

The '98 setup is different, there is no spring to be changed or added to like the '99+.

I agree. New shocks, or older ones that have been in the sun/warmth, always seem to help with this.

1 FMF

iTrader: (1)

here was the pic.
bummer if you can't replace the spring.

wraith71

I was having the same problem. I bought new shocks, now works fine. The shocks are a factor in initial opening. If you take ur shocks off but have a great spring.....ur hatch wont open

DirtyBirdMKE

you haave a 98 youre screwed

dhctss

iTrader: (3)

I had that problem i had to lift and push button same time. I piggybacked spring and it pops up 90 percent on first time.

slaterdump

iTrader: (1)

I had a similar issue on my 98. When I use the fob I have to hit it a bunch of times, but it works every time when I hit the button in the car. So I wasn't sure if it was an issue with the key fob more so than the actual release.

I have also been told that swapping shocks from a trans am would help as the rear hatch is heavier, but I haven't really looked into it to much. I'd find it hard to believe that GM would have two different shocks when Camaros/TAs have so many parts in common.

98boxer

iTrader: (7)

The 98's don't have a spring or if they do its not accessible.

When opening the hatch area with the key fob you have to hit the trunk switch twice in a row to open, car manul instructions..

slaterdump

iTrader: (1)

Yeah I know that...Using the fob I would have to hit it 4-5 times.

redls1T/A

LS1121

iTrader: (17)

Yea I have the same issue on my 1998. Here are the pictures, not sure if they are interchangeable.

Eiyse98ls1

On my 98 I was having the same issue and replaced struts and issue was fixed. If the hatch doesn't hold open I would get new struts even if their kind of holding up the hatch. I just got a 01 with the same issue and will be replacing struts just for this same issue. I bought the pair from amazon for 34.99.