Yakima SkyBox Will Not Open From Either Side With Key Turned Counterclockwise

Updated 08/26/2025 | Published 07/20/2019

Question:

Yakima SkyBox not opening after key is turned counterclockwise and handle releases part way, but the box will still not open from either side.

asked by: Jim

Expert Reply:

I spoke with Yakima and they said that you need to push down on the box just above where the handles are on both sides. If you are able to do this then engage the locks back and forth as that should then allow you to open your box. According to Yakima, if the cargo box was left on the vehicle for an extended period of time things can get jostled around and then cause this issue so once you get the box open make sure to inspect all of the components and let us know if anything needs replaced.

expert reply by: Conner L

Don L.

8/25/2025

Hi, can you explain more aobut how to do this. Where above the handles? I thought it was at the three places that are secured on each side, not the lock / handle itself. Why both sides, not just one since they are separate locks. I'm about to destroy my box, but really don't want to! Thank you!

Jameson C.

8/25/2025

@DonL Which box do you have?

Donl

8/25/2025

@JamesonC - it's an older Yakima skybox with the "s" lock (looks like an S or a propeller). Likely from around 2005. Thank you!

Jameson C.

8/25/2025

@Donl Okay so what Conner meant was that you'd push down on the top part of the box to try and close it a little more to hopefully free up the mechanism of the latch of the Skybox so that it will allow it to open. I suspect you've tried that though?