Glove Box Latch

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the glove box latch mechanism on a 2005 Dodge Viper, requiring removal of the glove box assembly for access.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Glove box latch assembly × 1 — Mopar 1CJ591X8AA or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn ignition off
2. Open glove box door fully to access interior fasteners

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove glove box door stop
   Locate the door stop mechanism on the right side of the glove box. Press the release tab and slide the stop arm free from its track to allow the door to drop fully open past its normal stop point.
2. 2

   Remove glove box assembly screws
   With the door fully lowered, identify the Phillips screws securing the glove box assembly to the instrument panel. Remove 4 screws along the perimeter of the glove box opening (two at top, one each side). Retain these screws for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Dashboard Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect glove box light connector
   Gently pull the glove box assembly forward approximately 2 inches. Locate the electrical connector for the glove box lamp at the top left corner. Press the release tab and disconnect the connector. Allow the connector to hang freely behind the dash.
4. 4

   Remove glove box assembly
   With the electrical connection released, carefully work the glove box assembly forward and down to clear the dash opening. Set the assembly on a clean work surface with the latch side facing up.
5. 5

   Remove latch mounting fasteners
   Locate the glove box latch mechanism on the door. Remove the 2 Phillips screws securing the latch assembly to the inside of the door panel. On this platform, the latch is secured with screws accessible from the interior side of the door.
   Torque spec

   Dashboard Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove latch assembly
   Withdraw the latch mechanism from the door panel. Note the orientation of any springs or linkage arms connected to the latch lever. If the latch includes a handle rod or linkage, disengage it from the latch body by sliding it out of the retaining clip.
7. 7

   Install new latch assembly
   Position the new latch assembly in the door panel mounting location, ensuring any linkage rods or handle connections are properly seated in their clips. Align the latch with the mounting holes, verifying that the latch engages correctly with the striker on the dash when the door is in the closed position.
8. 8

   Install latch mounting screws
   Install the 2 Phillips screws securing the latch to the door panel. Tighten screws to specification, ensuring even pressure on both mounting points. Do not overtighten as this may strip the plastic mounting bosses.
   Torque spec

   Dashboard Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reinstall glove box assembly
   Position the glove box assembly at the dash opening. Reconnect the glove box lamp electrical connector, pressing firmly until the locking tab clicks. Guide the assembly into the dash opening, ensuring no wires are pinched behind the housing.
10. 10

    Install glove box mounting screws
    Align the glove box mounting holes with the dash brackets. Install the 4 Phillips screws (two at top, one each side) and tighten to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even seating.
    Torque spec

    Dashboard Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall door stop
    With the door fully open, slide the door stop arm back into its track on the right side of the glove box until it clicks into place. Verify the stop engages at the normal open position.

Reassembly

1. Reassembly follows removal in reverse order
2. Ensure glove box lamp connector is fully seated before pushing assembly into dash
3. Verify all 4 mounting screws are installed before testing latch operation

Verification

• Close glove box door and verify latch engages smoothly with audible click
• Open latch using release button and confirm door opens freely without binding
• Verify glove box lamp illuminates when door is opened (if equipped)
• Check that door stop properly limits opening angle and holds door in open position

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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