Abstract: An auxiliary latch system for a vehicle compartment panel that assists the primary latch mechanism thereof in holding the panel in closed position in response to energy absorbing movement of a bumper of the vehicle. The auxiliary latch system includes one or more secondary latch mechanisms, each of which includes a latch member spring biased to an unlatched position. A first lever of each secondary latch mechanism is rotatable to engage and move the associated latch member to a latched position in latching engagement with the closed compartment panel to provide the assist to the primary latch mechanism in holding the panel closed. A separate elongated cable associated with each secondary latch mechanism extends between the associated first lever and a common second lever pivotally mounted on the vehicle adjacent the energy absorbing bumper.