Glove Box Latch

Replace or repair the glove box latch on a 2008 Dodge Viper by removing the glove box assembly and accessing the latch mechanism from behind.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Glove box latch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Open glove box door fully to access interior fasteners

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove glove box door dampener
   With the glove box door open, check for a dampener strut or stay arm on either side of the glove box that controls door movement (if equipped). If present, note its mounting location. Disconnect the dampener from its ball socket mounting point on the glove box door by pulling it free with firm hand pressure. The dampener will remain attached to the dash structure.
2. 2

   Remove glove box retaining fasteners
   Locate the fasteners securing the glove box assembly to the dashboard structure. Check along the top edge, sides, and bottom of the glove box opening for the retaining screws securing the glove box frame to the dash. Remove these screws using the appropriate driver (verify exact count and fastener type against OEM documentation). Set screws aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Disconnect glove box light connector
   If equipped with glove box illumination, locate the electrical connector for the glove box light on the upper left or right corner of the glove box housing. Press the release tab and disconnect the connector before fully removing the glove box assembly.
4. 4

   Remove glove box assembly
   Carefully pull the glove box assembly forward and away from the dashboard opening. Guide it out while being mindful of any remaining connections or interference with surrounding trim. Set the assembly on a clean work surface with the latch mechanism facing up.
5. 5

   Access latch mechanism
   With the glove box removed and positioned face-up, locate the latch mechanism on the front edge of the glove box door. The latch is typically mounted to the door frame with 2 screws visible from the interior side of the door assembly.
6. 6

   Remove latch retaining screws
   Remove the screws securing the latch mechanism to the glove box door frame using the appropriate driver (verify exact count and fastener type against OEM documentation). Support the latch from the front side as you remove the second screw to prevent it from falling.
7. 7

   Remove latch assembly
   Pull the latch mechanism away from the door frame. Inspect the striker plate on the dashboard structure for damage or wear. If the striker is damaged, it can typically be removed with 2 screws from inside the dash opening.
8. 8

   Install new latch mechanism
   Position the new latch assembly in the same orientation as the original, aligning the screw holes in the latch with the mounting points on the glove box door frame. Insert and hand-start both mounting screws before tightening.
9. 9

   Secure latch fasteners
   Tighten the 2 latch mounting screws securely using a 7mm socket. Ensure the latch operates smoothly by manually actuating the release mechanism several times before reinstalling the glove box.
10. 10

    Reinstall glove box assembly
    Reconnect the glove box light electrical connector if equipped. Guide the glove box assembly back into the dashboard opening, aligning the mounting holes with the corresponding holes in the dash structure. Install the glove box retaining screws and tighten securely with the appropriate driver (matching the count and fastener type removed in step 2).
11. 11

    Reconnect dampener strut
    Push the glove box door dampener ball socket back onto its mounting point on the glove box door. Ensure it snaps firmly into place and provides resistance when opening and closing the door.

Reassembly

1. Installation is performed in reverse order of removal
2. Ensure all fasteners are tightened securely and no electrical connectors are left disconnected
3. Verify the glove box door closes flush with the dashboard and the latch engages properly before operating the vehicle

Verification

• Open and close the glove box door several times to confirm the latch engages and releases smoothly
• Verify the door sits flush with the dashboard when latched and does not rattle
• Check that the glove box light illuminates when the door is opened (if equipped)
• Confirm the dampener provides smooth, controlled door movement without binding

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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