I ordered a new trunk latch for my 98 civic sedan and it won’t stay closed. I can hear the latch releasing as I close it. It closes and latches around the striker but it won’t stay latched. I’ve tried moving the striker up and down with no help. Anyone have any idea what I should do? My original latch done the same thing as well.

 

It could be that the striker is bent and not allowing the latch to fully close when you close the trunk.

Or, verify that the release cable isn't holding tension, and will allow the latch to close. Take a small screwdriver and use it like the striker to close the latch. Does it click? Can you pull the screwdriver straight up and open the latch without pulling the release lever?

 

when I use the screwdriver, it clicks and am able to pull it straight out without unlocking. That happens with and without the release cable attached.

when I look from the inside, the latch doesn’t close completely over the striker.

 

OK, if you can yank the screwdriver out, there is definitely something wrong with the latch, or you aren't pressing the screwdriver down hard enough / far enough.