Abstract: A vehicle having an openable body panel and a latch with a pivotable release lever for holding the panel in a closed position is provided with an actuator for remotely releasing the latch. The actuator comprises a rod coupled at one end to the release lever of the latch. The other end of the 0rod is connected to an element which may include a ball rigidly secured to the end of the force transmitting member that is slidably received within a tubular socket fitted within a hole in the body panel. The element is recessed within the socket so as not to protrude beyond the outer surface of the body panel.