You know how frustrating it can be when your Subaru Forester’s trunk won’t open. You press the button, pull the handle, and nothing happens. It's a common problem that can leave you feeling stuck, especially when you need to grab something from the back quickly.
In this post, we’ll go over why this happens and what you can do to fix it. Whether it’s a simple issue you can handle yourself or something that might need a little extra help, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get that trunk open again!
Common Causes of Subaru Forester Trunk Won’t Open
If your Subaru Forester trunk won't open, it can be frustrating. Here are some common reasons why this might happen and how you can fix it.
1. Dead Key Fob Battery
One common cause is a dead key fob battery. Your key fob sends a signal to unlock the trunk, but if the battery is dead, it won't work. Try replacing the battery in your key fob. It's usually a small, round battery that you can find in most stores. Once you change it, try unlocking the trunk again. If it works, the dead battery was the problem.
2. Trunk Latch Problem
Another reason could be a problem with the trunk latch. Sometimes, the latch can get stuck or broken. If the latch is stuck, you can try pressing down on the trunk while trying to open it. This might help release the latch. If the latch is broken, you may need to have it fixed or replaced by a mechanic.
3. Electrical Issue
Your Subaru Forester's trunk might also not open due to an electrical issue. The wiring or the trunk release button could have a problem. If you press the button and nothing happens, it could be an electrical issue. You might need to have the wiring or button checked by a professional.
4. Frozen Trunk
In cold weather, your trunk might freeze shut. This is especially common if there's snow or ice. If this happens, try gently tapping around the edges of the trunk to break the ice. You can also pour warm (not hot) water over the area to melt the ice.
Start by checking these common causes to find and fix the issue.
How to Fix Subaru Forester Trunk Won’t Open: Step-by-Step Guide
If your Subaru Forester’s trunk won’t open, it can be frustrating. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you fix it:
1. Check the Key Fob
If your Subaru Forester’s trunk isn’t opening, the first thing you should check is the key fob. The key fob is the small remote control you use to lock and unlock your car. Sometimes, the battery inside the key fob can get weak or die completely.
If the battery is dead, your car might not receive the signal to open the trunk. To fix this, you’ll need to replace the battery in the key fob. You can buy a new battery at most stores that sell car accessories.
After you replace the battery, try pressing the unlock button on the key fob again. Make sure to press the button twice because some cars need two presses to unlock the trunk. If the trunk still won’t open, you might need to check if the key fob itself is working properly.
Sometimes, the buttons on the key fob can get worn out or the fob might need to be reprogrammed. If you think the key fob is the problem, you can visit a car dealer or a locksmith who can help you fix or replace it.
2. Manual Release
If your Subaru Forester’s trunk won’t open with the key fob, you can try to open it manually. Start by looking inside your car for a trunk release lever or button. This lever is usually near the driver’s seat, close to where your feet are when you’re sitting in the car.
Pull or press this lever, and it should pop the trunk open. If your car doesn’t have this lever or if it doesn’t work, you can try another method. Fold down the back seats of your car to access the trunk from the inside. Once you’re in the trunk, look for a small lever or latch on the trunk door.
This is the manual release for the trunk. Pull it, and the trunk should open. This method is handy if your key fob isn’t working or if there’s an issue with the car’s electrical system. Keep in mind that this manual release is a backup method, so it’s good to know where it is in case of emergencies.
3. Check for Obstructions
Sometimes, the reason your Subaru Forester’s trunk won’t open is because something is blocking it. Take a close look at the area around the trunk latch, which is the part that locks the trunk shut. Small objects like sticks, leaves, or other debris can get stuck in the latch and keep it from opening.
To fix this, carefully remove anything that’s in the way. You can use your hands or a small tool, like a screwdriver, to clear out the debris. After you’ve cleared the area, try opening the trunk again. Another thing to check is if the latch itself is dirty or rusty.
Over time, dirt and rust can build up on the latch, making it hard to open. If you see any dirt or rust, use a clean cloth to wipe it off. You can also spray a little bit of lubricant, like WD-40, on the latch to help it move smoothly.
Once you’ve cleaned and lubricated the latch, try to open the trunk again. If it still doesn’t open, there might be a more serious issue, but at least you know it’s not something simple like debris or dirt blocking the latch.
4. Inspect the Trunk Lock
If your Subaru Forester’s trunk won’t open, it could be an issue with the trunk lock itself. Some Subaru Foresters have a keyhole on the trunk. If your car has one, try using the key to open the trunk directly. If the key won’t turn, the lock might be stuck.
Sometimes, the lock can get jammed because of dirt or rust inside the keyhole. To fix this, you can spray a little bit of lubricant into the keyhole. After spraying, gently insert the key and try to turn it back and forth.
This might help free up the lock. If the key still won’t turn, there could be something wrong with the lock cylinder, which is the part of the lock that the key goes into. If you’re comfortable doing some basic car maintenance, you can try removing the lock cylinder to clean it or see if it needs to be replaced.
If you’re not sure how to do this, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic. They can inspect the lock and replace any parts that are broken or worn out. Fixing the trunk lock can often solve the problem if the trunk won’t open.
5. Check the Electrical System
If your Subaru Forester’s trunk still won’t open, the problem might be with the car’s electrical system. The trunk release is connected to the car’s electrical system, and if something goes wrong with the wiring or fuses, the trunk might not work. Start by checking the fuses in your car.
The fuses are small parts that protect the electrical circuits. If a fuse blows, it can stop the trunk from opening. You’ll need to find the fuse box, which is usually under the dashboard or in the engine bay. Look in the car’s manual to find the fuse that controls the trunk release.
If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same type. After replacing the fuse, try opening the trunk again. If the fuse is fine, the problem could be with the wiring. Sometimes, the wires that connect the trunk release to the rest of the car can get loose or damaged.
Check the wiring around the trunk area to see if anything looks broken or disconnected. If you find any issues, you might need to reconnect or repair the wires. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical parts, it’s a good idea to take your car to a mechanic to have the wiring checked.
6. Consult a Professional
If you’ve tried all the steps above and your Subaru Forester’s trunk still won’t open, it might be time to consult a professional. Sometimes, the problem can be more serious, like a broken trunk latch or a complicated issue with the car’s electrical system.
A professional mechanic has the tools and experience to diagnose and fix the problem. They can check if the latch needs to be replaced, if there’s a deeper issue with the lock, or if the electrical system needs repairs.
I hope this guide helps you fix the trunk issue with your Subaru Forester. If you follow the steps, you should be able to diagnose and fix the problem with your Subaru Forester’s trunk not opening. Don't hesitate to get help if the problem continues. A working trunk makes your car more useful and safe.
Are these Questions in Your Mind?
Is it common for a Subaru Forester trunk to stop working?
Yes, it can happen occasionally. Issues with the trunk might be related to the key fob, the latch, or the car’s electrical system. Regular maintenance can help prevent these problems, but it’s good to know how to troubleshoot if they arise.
Can I open the Subaru Forester trunk from the inside?
Yes, many Subaru Forester models have an emergency trunk release inside the trunk. You can access it by folding down the back seats and pulling the release lever. This is a useful feature if the trunk won’t open from the outside.
Do I need a mechanic to fix a stuck trunk?
Not always. Many trunk issues can be fixed with basic troubleshooting, like replacing the key fob battery or checking for obstructions. However, if the problem is with the latch or electrical system, it might be best to see a mechanic.
Is it safe to drive if my trunk won't close?
No, it’s not safe to drive with the trunk open or not securely closed. An open trunk can affect your visibility, and items could fall out while driving. It’s important to fix the issue before driving your Subaru Forester.
Can a dead car battery cause the trunk not to open?
Yes, if your car battery is dead, the electrical system won’t function properly, including the trunk release. In this case, you might need to manually open the trunk or jump-start your car to restore power.
Do I need special tools to fix my trunk?
Usually, you won’t need special tools for basic troubleshooting, like changing the key fob battery or checking the fuses. However, if you need to repair or replace the latch or lock, more advanced tools might be required, and a mechanic may be necessary.
Is it possible to lock the Subaru Forester trunk manually?
Yes, if your Subaru Forester has a keyhole on the trunk, you can use the key to lock and unlock it manually. This is helpful if the key fob or electrical system isn’t working properly.
Can cold weather affect my Subaru Forester's trunk?
Yes, cold weather can cause the trunk latch to freeze or become stiff, making it hard to open. If you suspect the latch is frozen, try gently warming it up or using de-icer to free it.
Do I need to lubricate the trunk latch regularly?
Yes, regular lubrication of the trunk latch can prevent it from sticking or rusting. Use a lubricant like WD-40 to keep the latch moving smoothly. This simple maintenance step can help avoid problems with the trunk.
Is it normal for the trunk to make noise when opening?
No, unusual noises when opening the trunk might indicate a problem with the latch or hinges. If you hear grinding, squeaking, or other strange sounds, it’s a good idea to inspect the trunk mechanism or take your car to a mechanic.
