2008 Cayman Cayman S- dead battery/can't open hood

[caymandriver99]

Read related Boxster threads and tried to get the hood open by connecting the trickle charger to the designated pull out fuse box post. Oddly, the charger flashes indicating it is improperly connected and despite multiple reconnects of the ground and positive no success. Also, key is now 'stuck' in the ignition,.

Called tow service, they got their charger hooked up and while I now hear some clicks as the various internal locks (key, steering column?) I still couldn't get the hood to open. The key will now come out however....so some progress.

Two side notes: 1) my key fob has not worked for a long time since its battery died and about 6 years ago I broke some post that held the battery in place. I don't know if this matters at all but the fuse manual seems to have as a third step, pressing the alarm button on the fob; 2) While the charger was connected, none of the dash lights came on.

Thanks.

[JFP in PA]

[Tony V]

My neighbor just went through this. Try using a different ground point. Your charger is trying to tell you that. He was using the door strap and the paint interfered with getting a good ground.
Tony

[tcora]

Originally Posted by Tony V

My neighbor just went through this. Try using a different ground point. Your charger is trying to tell you that. He was using the door strap and the paint interfered with getting a good ground.
Tony

Also, a charger won’t cut it. Use a charged 12V battery.

[bob_cote]

I had a similar problem with my daughter’s 07 Cayman. A second key fob worked for some reason and we were able to successfully change out the battery. I never got the fuse box post to work however. Is this circuit fused or switched? Would a boost pack work? Continues to be a mystery/project. Now we are wrestling with an inoperative driver door latch. I have the parts and will attempt repair soon. It’s always something with these cars. Lol.

[tcora]

If a second key fob worked, then it really sounds like a dead battery was not your problem in the first place.

[caymandriver99]

I ended up calling a dealer who told me about a cable hood release located on the driver's side wheel well. I accessed the cable after removing the plastic panel screws forward of the tire, found the cable and with a very strong pull aided by vise grips, was able to pop the hood. I replaced the battery and all is good.

Thanks to all who replied and tried to help out but I'm happy that I never had to take an ax to it!!!!

[JFP in PA]

A large can opener or saws all will also get it done..................