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

Question

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

0

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

0

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?

See All (9) Replies to Don L. ∨

Answer 1

If the front arm/hinge on your Yakima SkyBox Cargo Box like the SkyBox 12 #Y07334 isn't unhooking due to the carrier being over-stuffed, then your only real option is to try and wiggle around your cargo enough to get some clearance between it and…

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Answer 2

It is very difficult to diagnose what the issue may be without knowing a model number and seeing photos but it sounds like the latch on the locking mechanism on your RocketBox may have somehow been damaged. I would need to know the model number in…

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Answer 3

The correct replacement handles for a Yakima SkyBox made from 2009 on is the Replacement SuperLatch Handle Assemblies for Yakima SkyBox Rooftop Cargo Boxes #Y8880348. These come in a quantity of two with lock cores and keys, so you have the right…

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Answer 4

If you have a newer Yakima SkyBox NX 16 like part #Y95AV then you should be able to just open the box from the other side. That said, there really isn't a good way to go about opening this without the latch installed. If you like you can try to…

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Answer 5

I attached a picture that shows instructions for replacing the handle of your Skybox 16 part #Y07336 with the part #Y8880348 that you referenced. This handle hasn't changed since 2014. Depending on which Skybox you have and what year it was…

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Answer 6

I wish there was a trick to opening the Yakima SkyBox 21 Rooftop Cargo Box #Y07337 with the handles broken off, but there is nothing that is feasible; you can try using a Channel Lock but it doesn't seem likely you can do it without damaging the…

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Answer 7

If you do not know the key number, your best alternative is to have a locksmith open the lock for you. I do not recommend trying to drill the lock out, as it is highly likely that the box would be damaged. Once the lock is unlocked, you can use your…

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Answer 8

Based on what you are describing it sounds like both of the latches need to be replaced. The correct replacement part is the Replacement SuperLatch Handles for Yakima SkyBox Cargo Boxes - Qty 2 #Y8880348. I would try replacing the latches and go from…

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Answer 9

It sounds like your Skybox has already been tampered with as this is not normal at all. I recommend you replace the entire assembly using the Replacement SuperLatch Handle Assemblies for Yakima SkyBox Rooftop Cargo Boxes - Qty 2 #Y8880348. These…

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Answer 10

I've had this happen to me before. Removing the broken portion of the key isn't the easiest thing in the world, but it can be done if you're patient. First, flood the lock with spray lubricant so all the tumblers and springs will be as…

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Answer 11

With the lock cylinder removed you will be able to see the hole that the lock protrudes into. This piece should move inside the handle to allow that locking mechanism to either lock the handle or release the handle. If it will not move you may try…

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Answer 12

Yes, the same instructions for removing the Replacement SuperLatch Handles for Yakima SkyBox Cargo Boxes Item #Y8880348 will work. If you can already remove the lock I recommend doing that if not you will just need to get the broken key out to remove…

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

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