Center Compartment Latch Repair

I just did this. Under $10.00 at ace hardware for 2 4-40 x3/8" set screws, a new spring cut to length, a 4-40 tap and matching #43 drill bit and crazy glue was extra bringing it to around $12 bucks.

I hand tapped it using a pair of pliers because the plastic was so soft. I only removed the three screws on the latch side of the liner then it bent back ebough so the screws and assembly could be removed.

Took longer to drive to the store to buy it.

I added a small drop of crazy glue to the holes to secure thee set screws forever.

Added Bonus: the new spring is stiffer so the latch works better than it did before and now my elbow doesn't accidentally open the center console when I am driving because of the weak factory spring tension and the latch location. Which used to drive me friggin nuts and is the reason the tabs probably broke.

OP... Thanks a million! This thread should be a sticky!

 

Here is how I fixed my center console. First, I took the lid off and then removed the latch assembly so I could work on it. I drilled 4 small holes - two in the latch and two in the frame.

Next, I stripped out some of the inner threads from a short piece of 550 paracord.

 

Now I threaded one strand of the cord through the two holes on the latch (also, loop it around the inside of the latch, where the cords come out) and through the two holes in the frame.

 

Now, reassemble the latch and spring. I used a clamp to hold this in place while I tied it off.

Note the last picture shows the final assembly before putting things back togeter. This was my first attempt and was way too loose. Tie the thread as tight as you can, as you can always pull a bit out if you get it too tight. A second pair of hands would make this a lot easier.

 

Thanks so much OP. My latch just popped after 11.5 years. Good to know I can not only repair but improve along the way!

 

Bump

 

This..

 

Did this mod this weekend after my latch broke last month , searched for new cover but no luck . But found this clever repair .
If anyone needs the bits let me know I'll pay it forward for free ... send me address ...

 

Toyota now sells the assembly alone, so you don't have to pay for the lid. Picked it up at the dealer parts center for $35.45 plus tax. Yikes! Wish I had done the repair in this thread first. The spring in the new part appears weak, so I am wondering if the lid will start popping up on its own. If it does, then I will fix the old part and reinstall. This was for a 2013. I also found a video on the how to do the fix. https://youtu.be/Lx7MOXyk8A0

 

Original repair May 15 2011. I have to redo it today....almost 7 years later.

 

Well, my 2010 (now 8.5 years and 112,700 miles old) just had the latch fail. Thanks to Tacoma World for do-it-yourself solutions! I found the spring with the button that popped off... and twice now awaiting time to seek a solution. It popped off a third time and now can't find the spring, but will look harder and knew a click pen had nearly the same size spring, so already thought of that.

Anyway, just wanted to give a good old bump to this post! I will attempt a repair using one of the methods I saw (the photos and video really help to see what is being described).

 

Mine just broke on my 06 double cab. Was really short on time and proper materials and I didn't want to leave it open till the weekend. Ended up using a spring from a pen and 2 Bobby pins. Had to channel my inner macgyver.

 

I repaired mine using a fine drill and 2 tiny screws from a RC hobby shop. I marked a spot where the little tabs broke off and drilled the holes so you run the screws in to make stops. you could use a large paper clip to make studs and put them in the same spots . The screws work great, 10 or 15 min. job

 

Photos, close up included, please.

 

I have looked through all the posts, but guess I just don't get it. I have a 2007 Tacoma double cab and my console latch broke. I kinda understand the spring, but the screws, coat hangers, etc. Where to put them isn't making any sense. Please take STEP by STEP with pictures to show me what to do. I'm thinking I just have to put the spring onto the post sticking out and then put that latch piece back with console, but that's not it. HELP!!!!!!

 

I put the spring onto the post of the button and now I just have to remember to keep my thumb on the button when opening and closing the lid... otherwise the button goes flying or drops down next to the seat.

The next step is to unscrew the underside of the lid and remove the button holder in order to do one of the fixes (posts, string, screws). I hope someone does what lovesglass54 asks and posts more detailed step-by-step photos with instructions. Makes life easier for us guys born in the 50s!

 

Mine just broke today and I was debating drilling or buying.

 

Or you could buy a Dorman latch replacement for $14.95 and replace it with a better brand new latch in 5 minutes tops. I bought mine from Amazon and installed it 2 years ago. It closes much better than the original with an audible click.

 

Buy the Dorman. I did, installed it in 5 minutes and it works much better than the original.

 

I was born in 54 and am moderately handy. The Dorman was very very easy to install. i was intimidated initially and could not believe how simple it was. The new latch is far superior to the original.