I just bought an 89 GTA, but I do not have a key for the hatch, the door key does not work in the hatch, and the release button does not work, when I press the button the brake light comes on. I also do not hear any noise like the motor starting for the release. I have tried the button in park and neutral with the car running and off.

I read on some cars the e-brake needs to be pulled for it to work. I did not want to try that and have it get stuck so I removed the wire from the back of the ebrake and ground it to the body, causing the brake light to come on, and then tried the hatch button but it still doesn't work.

I have called GM, they can not make me a key by the vin. The local locksmith, wont or cant pick it, and can only make a key if I take out the cylinder which I can not do, because I can not open the hatch.

If anyone can help, or knows another way to get the hatch open I would appreciate it.

Thank you.

I would rather not tear up my rear interior paneling as it looks to be unbroken, I have removed the light and can see the bolt to unscrew the solenoid, but can not reach it.

As far as I can tell I have this style pull down:
http://www.wc-autoparts.com/1986-91-...-and-solenoid/

What are my options, would drilling the hatch lock allow me to open the hatch, and would it be easy to replace the lock after?

If drilling the lock works would it risk damaging the circled part


And how difficult is it to remove that part and attache it to a new lock.

 

I had the same issue with my '87 Iroc. I took the driver's door lock out and had my local locksmith make me new keys. Cost me $27 with tax to have two keys made.
The plastic piece on the lock just pops off and snaps back on.

 

I have a door key, but it does not work in the hatch. Sorry I should have mentioned that in my original post.

 

Drilling it out is an option but if you can pull on the black cable the hatch may pop open. If you have to drill the lock start with a small bit and work your way up. Should be able to use a screw driver to turn the lock after that. The lock is held in by a c clip so it's easy to change once the hatch is open.

 

I would find myself another locksmith. I drilled the lock on a parts car years ago because I didn't want to pay, but I wouldn't hesitate to have someone make keys for it. If your plastics are in good condition I wouldn't try going from the inside either.