Glovebox won't open

This soundslike a rather trivial fault, but I cannot open the glovebox. It worked perfectly, then I closed it, probably trapping some papers inside in the lock catch.
Maybe I applied a little too much force. Something inside went snap. The knob turns, but doesn't release the catch.
Is there any way to remove the lid without damage and get to the problem? Please help!

There is not much in there, but if plod ever asked me to produce papers, he would not be too impressed by my excuse that I've got them but can't get at them. It's on a par with children saying "the dog ate my homework".
Nigel

[stephendell]

If you unscrew the hinges at the bottom is there then enough of a gap to reach up and release the catch?

You could try using the key to unlock it ....... that's if nothing is broken ..... I have noticed over the years that the glove box can lock its self without warning .... not that often, but it does ...... all I have to do is unlock it and turn the knob and all is well until it decides to lock its self again.
It is a simple lock, and I think that due to vibration when driving, the internal lock pin just moves to a position which locks it.

Yes mine does that too John.

I tried the key in the glovebox, but that did nothing. I think the catch has broken with my ham-fisted forcing it, so I will end up upside down in the footwell to remove the hinges, then see what an do to get at it. Thanks for all your help and suggestions.

This has happened to me a few times.. there's a little button on the inside of the lock which gets knocked easily by stuff in the glove box.
Once you know where the button is (which of course is the key thing), you can get a coat hanger wire poked in from the side and in the right place and knock the button back and then it'll open.....

Perhaps it will be easier to go and see the inside of a working glove box to see how it all works before attacking yours which is jammed shut.

Update on the glove box. I opened it by poking in a tool and releasing the catch. However the internal plastic part that pushes the catch open has broken off. Thus the twist handle does nothing.
I two options - either get another catch, or repair / design a new part.
Has anyone got a glove box catch for sale?
Nigel