Can you open a Honda Pilot trunk from inside?
Yes. Most newer Honda Pilot models include an interior emergency trunk release inside the cargo area, and you can also open the trunk from inside using cabin controls or the key fob if your trim supports it.
How trunk access works in the Honda Pilot
Trunk access in the Pilot hinges on a combination of safety features and convenience options that vary by model year and trim. The vehicle is designed so that someone inside the cargo area can release the latch, and most cabins offer alternate ways to command the trunk to open from inside when appropriate.
Interior emergency trunk release
What to know about the emergency release inside the cargo space:
- Look for a glow-in-the-dark emergency release handle on the interior side of the trunk area. It is typically located on the side panel near the latch and may require you to move or lift a floor panel to access it in some configurations.
- Pull or operate the handle firmly to disengage the latch. This should allow the trunk to open outward from the inside, even if you entered the trunk accidentally or are unable to reach the exterior handle.
- After using the release, exit the trunk promptly and check for any mechanical or latch issues if the trunk doesn’t open smoothly.
Having an interior emergency trunk release is a safety feature intended to provide a way out or access from inside the cargo area if someone becomes trapped.
Alternative ways to open from inside the vehicle
In addition to the emergency release, several inside-the-cabin options may open the trunk depending on year and trim:
- Power tailgate button: Many Pilots equipped with a power liftgate have a trunk release switch on the dashboard or center console. When the doors are unlocked, pressing this button can raise the tailgate.
- Key fob: If the doors are unlocked, you can use the trunk button on the key fob to command the tailgate to open (some models require a press-and-hold to activate).
- Manual assistance: If power features are unavailable or the battery is dead, you may need to rely on the interior latch or seek external help. Refer to the owner’s manual for your specific model year.
These methods provide alternatives for accessing the trunk from inside the cabin, especially when you need quick access without going outside.
What to do if you can’t access the trunk from inside
If you find the interior release or cabin controls aren’t functioning, check the vehicle’s electrical system (battery health can affect power features), consult the owner’s manual for troubleshooting steps, or contact a Honda dealer for service. In an entrapment scenario, call emergency services for assistance.
Summary
In short, you can typically open a Honda Pilot trunk from inside using an interior emergency trunk release located in the cargo area, and you may also use cabin controls or the key fob to access the trunk when equipped. Availability and exact locations vary by model year and trim, so verify with the manual or a dealership for your specific Pilot.
