Today on my drive home after getting my valve adjustment done I noticed some extra rattle on the driver side latch. I am able to release it without holding down the button and it's really loose.

Here are the pictures.

Driver side:


Passenger side:


I can see that the black part above the spring is missing/ broke and that's why it it doesn't lock. Is my only solution to get a new lock assembly?

 

Not sure there is any solution but a new latch assembly.

Might post in the Want to Buy forum to see if someone is parting out a car. Note: MY00-01 have different latches from MY02+ so make sure you get the right one.

 

I see. I have an aftermarket top though. Will the OEM one still work??

Should I just get a new one? I figure it will make the roof tighter than a used one that might fail too.

 

i would put new latches and new strikes on.

 

The aftermarket top only replaces the fabric...not the top frame. The latches are part of the top frame.

 

I had the exact same problem. I was still under warranty so they took care of it, but the tech said it was unfixable

 

I once priced out the latches, as I needed 2 screws from them, and the latches were 180 bucks EACH. Thats In canada.

Id say, get a used latch

 

I can order one online for $74.15+ shipping. I'll probably switch the strikers as I heard they lock tighter if you do.

 

Go with the hardtop strikers.... best 50 bucks i ever spent. Get them thru hardtop guy