FAQ
TL;DR: 2 screws (9–10 mm) behind the grille release the bonnet; "remove the grill, unscrew the two screws ... and you can open the mask." Use this when the battery is out and keys won't unlock. [Elektroda, wojtala17, post #17225781]
Why it matters: For Seat Ibiza III (6L) owners locked out after battery removal or freezing, this gives safe, confirmed ways to regain access.
Quick Facts
- Double-locking (locked twice) disables interior linkages; forcing the insert can damage the lock. Use temporary power instead. [Elektroda, robokop, post #17074224]
- Emergency bonnet access: remove the grille, undo two 9–10 mm bolts, release the hinge, and lift the bonnet. [Elektroda, wojtala17, post #17225781]
- Tight access to latch bolts; a ratchet and ring spanners help on the 10 mm heads. [Elektroda, wojtala17, post #17074394]
- You can feed power at the starter/alternator with jumper leads; avoid shorting (+) to ground; a helper helps. [Elektroda, nikusert, post #17072372]
- At about −5°C, heating a key opened a VW, but the lock inserts later needed replacement. [Elektroda, Prot, post #17072675]
How do I open the bonnet/hood on a Seat Ibiza III (6L) with a dead battery?
Use the confirmed front-release method.
- Remove the grille.
- Undo the two 9–10 mm bolts holding the latch.
- Release the hinge and lift the bonnet.
This exposes the battery and latch for service. [Elektroda, wojtala17, post #17225781]
Why won’t the door pin rise even though the key turns fully?
The car is likely double-locked. Double-locking disables interior rods, so the key turns the cylinder without releasing the latch. Do not force it. “Any attempts to forcefully rotate the insert out of its range will result in damage.” [Elektroda, robokop, post #17074224]
Can I unlock by connecting power under the car?
Yes. Clip jumper leads from a battery to the starter or alternator positive and a proper ground. Avoid shorting the positive to ground. Having a second person helps manage cables and doors. This restores power so central locking can work. [Elektroda, nikusert, post #17072372]
Is warming the key a good idea in freezing weather?
It can open the cylinder but risks damage. One user opened a VW at −5°C by warming the key, then needed all lock inserts replaced. Avoid this unless you accept potential repair costs. [Elektroda, Prot, post #17072675]
The key turns fully, but the door stays shut—what’s happening?
Frozen linkage. “There is a full range of motion in the cylinder, but the door pull rods and levers remain frozen.” Warm the mechanism or restore power via the starter/alternator to actuate the lock. [Elektroda, Prot, post #17074210]
Will waiting for warmer temperatures help unlock the car?
If frozen linkages are the cause, warming helps. Heating frees the cylinder first, but rods can remain frozen longer. Only once linkages thaw will the door open normally. Avoid forcing the key during thaw. [Elektroda, Prot, post #17074210]
What tools do I need to access the latch through the grille?
Use a 9–10 mm socket, a small ratchet, and ring spanners. Access is tight, so compact tools make it easier to reach and undo the latch bolts cleanly. [Elektroda, wojtala17, post #17074394]
Is there an emergency bonnet release cable on the Ibiza 6L?
No accessible emergency pull is exposed at the front. The practical workaround is to remove the grille, undo the two latch bolts, then release the hinge to open the bonnet. [Elektroda, wojtala17, post #17225781]
How can I tell if my car is double-locked?
If you locked the car before removing power, it’s considered “locked twice.” In that state, interior linkages are disabled, and mechanical turning won’t release the latch without power. [Elektroda, robokop, post #17074224]
Does the remote work after removing the battery?
No. With the vehicle battery removed, the remote locking does not function. You must use mechanical access or restore power to operate central locking. [Elektroda, wojtala17, post #17072468]
Where exactly are the bonnet latch screws located?
They sit straight ahead behind the grille. After removing the grille, look directly at the latch area and you’ll see two bolts to undo. [Elektroda, wojtala17, post #17225781]
Can I use thinner jumper wires just to power the unlock?
Yes, for a brief low-current unlock pulse. Connect carefully to the starter or alternator positive and a solid ground. Keep durations short and use a helper for safety. [Elektroda, nikusert, post #17072372]
Should I pry the grille with a screwdriver to pop the bonnet?
No. Prying risks damage and won’t trip the latch. Remove the grille properly, undo the two 9–10 mm bolts, release the hinge, and lift the bonnet. [Elektroda, wojtala17, post #17225781]
What does “double bolt” mean here?
It means the car was locked twice (double-locked), disabling interior handles and lock rods. Without electrical power, the lock won’t release even if the key turns. [Elektroda, robokop, post #17074224]
and the double bolt works
) I opened the VW Golf door by "warming up" the key 
, yes, I opened it but I ended up in the workshop "clinic locks" replacing all the inserts 
