Subaru Outback Trunk Won’t Open? Here’s What to Do!

1. Introduction

If you find yourself in a situation where you can’t open the trunk of your Subaru Outback, don’t panic! This guide will walk you through troubleshooting steps to help you get back on the road as quickly as possible. Before we dive into the specific issues, let’s first take a moment to understand what could cause the trunk not to open.

2. Check the trunk release lever

If the trunk of your Subaru Outback won’t open, one of the first things you should check is the trunk release lever. This lever is located on the inside of the vehicle, near the base of the trunk. It may be hidden behind a panel or a carpet, so you may need to remove it to access it. Once you have found the lever, try pulling it to see if the trunk opens. If the lever is broken or stuck, the trunk may not open. In this case, you will need to replace the lever.

3. Check the trunk lock

If the issue persists after checking the trunk release lever and the battery, it may be time to check the trunk lock. The trunk lock is responsible for securing the trunk when it is closed. If the lock is not functioning properly, the trunk may not open. To check the trunk lock, first locate the trunk lock actuator, which is typically located near the hood of the car. Next, check if the actuator is working properly by trying to open the trunk from the outside. If the actuator is not working, the trunk lock may need to be replaced. It is important to note that replacing the trunk lock can be a complex task and should be done by a professional mechanic.

4. Check the battery

If the problem persists after checking all of the above items, it may be time to check the battery. This is a common issue with older vehicles, as the battery can wear down over time and cause problems with the trunk release mechanism. To check the battery, first make sure the car is in park and the parking brake is engaged. Then, locate the positive terminal on the battery and check to see if it has any corrosion or damage. If there is any corrosion present, clean it off with a wire brush and reapply new battery terminals. If the battery is completely dead, it will need to be replaced. It’s important to note that replacing the battery alone may not fix the problem, so it’s best to have a professional mechanic inspect the entire electrical system to ensure that everything is functioning properly.

5. Check the fuse

If you’re experiencing issues with your Subaru Outback’s trunk not opening, one of the possible causes may be a blown fuse. To check the fuse, first locate the fuse box in your vehicle, which is usually found under the hood or near the driver’s side dashboard. Once you’ve located the fuse box, look for the fuse that corresponds to the trunk release mechanism. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one from your car’s fuse panel. If the fuse looks fine, it’s possible that there might be an issue with the wiring, in that case, you should consult a professional mechanic to diagnose the problem.

6. Check the wiring harness

If you’ve checked all of the above items and the trunk still won’t open, it’s possible that there may be an issue with the wiring harness. This is a complex system of wires that connects all of the components in your vehicle’s trunk, including the release lever, lock, and latch. If any of these wires become damaged or disconnected, it can prevent the trunk from opening properly. To check the wiring harness, start by visually inspecting it for any signs of damage or wear. Look for frayed wires, loose connections, or any other issues that may be causing a problem. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, it’s best to bring your vehicle to a mechanic who can properly diagnose and repair the issue.

7. Check the relay

If the problem persists after checking all of the above components, it may be time to check the relay. The relay controls power to various components in the vehicle, including the trunk lid. If the relay is faulty or not receiving power, it can prevent the trunk from opening. To check the relay, first locate it in the engine compartment and disconnect the power supply. Then, use a multimeter to test the relay for continuity. If there is no power or the reading is infinite, the relay may be faulty and need replacement.

8. Check the trunk latch

If the trunk of your Subaru Outback won’t open, it could be due to a malfunctioning trunk latch. This is a common issue that can easily be resolved with some troubleshooting steps. First, check if the trunk is locked by trying to open it with the key in the ignition or by pressing the unlock button on your remote fob. If the trunk doesn’t open, try using the manual release handle located inside the car. If this still doesn’t work, there may be a problem with the trunk latch itself. In this case, you may need to replace the trunk latch assembly.

9. Check the brake lights

If the brake lights on your Subaru Outback are not functioning properly, it can cause the trunk to not open. This is because the brake lights are connected to the trunk release mechanism. If there is an issue with the brake lights, it can prevent the trunk from opening. To check the brake lights, first make sure the car is in park and turn off the engine. Then, press the brake pedal all the way down and hold it. If the brake lights do not come on, there may be an issue with the brake lights or the trunk release mechanism. If the brake lights do come on, then the issue may be with the trunk release mechanism.

10. Conclusion

If you have tried all of the steps above and your Subaru Outback trunk still won’t open, it may be time to seek professional assistance. There could be a problem with the wiring or a malfunctioning component that requires specialized tools and knowledge to diagnose and repair. It’s important not to ignore this issue as it can lead to further damage and potentially dangerous situations such as being stranded with a trunk that won’t close. If you’re in this situation, contact a certified Subaru mechanic or tow truck driver to get your trunk opened safely. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so keep your car well maintained and take care of any issues promptly.