How do you open the trunk release button?

You typically press a trunk release button on the inside of the car (usually on the driver's door panel), on the trunk lid itself, or on the key fob. Some newer vehicles also offer hands-free or exterior releases that trigger when you approach the car with the fob.

Where to find the trunk release button

Trunk release controls are placed in several common locations, depending on the model and trim level. The following are the spots you’re most likely to encounter:

• Interior trunk release on the driver's door panel or near the left kick panel inside the cabin.


• A button or switch on the trunk lid itself, often located near the latch or under the edge of the lid.


• Trunk button on the vehicle’s key fob (press and/or hold as required by the model).


• Hands-free exterior release sensor, usually located under the rear bumper or integrated into the liftgate system (often activated by a foot wave).

Note: For security reasons, many cars require the vehicle to be unlocked before the trunk can be opened with either the interior button or the key fob.

How to use the different trunk release options

Below are the main methods used to release the trunk, with clear steps for each.

Interior trunk release button

1. Ensure the vehicle is unlocked. Locate the trunk release button on the driver's door panel or near the driver's seat.


2. Press and hold the button for about 1–2 seconds until you hear a latch release or see the trunk begin to move.


3. Wait for the trunk to lift or open fully. If the trunk doesn’t respond, verify the ignition and transmission are in the proper state (often the car must be in Park with the engine off).


4. If it still fails, check whether there is a fuse or wiring issue or consult the owner’s manual for model-specific guidance.

Interacting with the interior release is the most common method when you’re inside the car or standing at the door.

Key fob trunk release

1. With the fob within range, press the trunk button once or press and hold as required by your model.


2. Watch for the trunk to unlock and/or pop open. If it remains closed, make sure the doors are unlocked and the fob’s battery isn’t dead.


3. If the trunk still won’t release, try an alternative method (interior switch or hands-free) and check the fob’s battery or re-pair the fob if needed.


4. Close the trunk manually if it’s a two-stage release and you need to guide it down safely.

The key fob is convenient when your hands are full, but battery life and security settings can affect operation.

Hands-free and exterior releases

1. Ensure the feature is enabled in the vehicle settings and that your fob is detected within the proper range.


2. standing behind the vehicle, perform the required gesture (often a deliberate foot movement under the bumper) or press the exterior button if available.


3. The trunk should unlock and rise or swing open, depending on the system. Keep clear of the opening path.


4. If it doesn’t respond, verify the feature is active, check the bumper sensor alignment, and replace the fob battery if needed.

Hands-free releases are common on modern SUVs and sedans but not universal. If yours lacks this, rely on the interior switch or fob.

Exterior trunk button on the lid

1. Look for a small button or touchpad on the underside or edge of the trunk lid near the latch.


2. Press to release the latch, typically requiring the car to be unlocked.


3. Allow the trunk to lift or swing open, then step back to avoid contact with the moving mechanism.

Exterior lid controls provide a quick release without entering the cabin, though their location and operation vary by model.

Troubleshooting tips

If the trunk won’t release, try these common fixes before seeking service:

• Check the key fob battery and range; replace the battery if needed.


• Make sure the car is unlocked and in a safe state (often Park) as required by the system.


• Inspect fuses and wiring related to the trunk release circuitry, especially after a collision or electrical issue.


• Test alternative release methods (interior switch, exterior lid button, hands-free) to identify where the failure occurs.


• If the latch is sticking or the trunk won’t stay open, consult a dealership or qualified technician to diagnose mechanical or sensor problems.

Persistent issues may indicate a defective latch, faulty switch, or software setting that requires professional attention.

Safety and maintenance reminders

Always keep the trunk area clear of people and objects when releasing or opening the lid. Never put your hands or fingers near the latch or moving parts while the trunk opens or closes. Regularly check that interior and exterior release mechanisms operate smoothly, and replace worn components promptly.

Summary

Most vehicles offer multiple trunk release options: an interior button (often on the driver's door), a key fob, an exterior button on the trunk lid, or a hands-free sensor. The exact method depends on the make and model, and many cars require the vehicle to be unlocked or in Park for release. If one method fails, try another, verify the fob battery, and consult the owner’s manual or dealership for model-specific instructions or repairs.

How do I open the trunk button?

You just hit the button that is right underneath the trunk above the license plate. And it allows you to go ahead. And open up your trunk.

Is there a way to open trunk from inside?

Depending on the vehicle, you may have a button or manual lever inside the cabin that can pop the trunk, possibly even inside the glovebox. Look for a pull-up lever on the floor to the left of the driver's seat. Some vehicles also have hidden trunk-release latches behind the seats, or in the doors or armrests.

Where is the release latch in the trunk?

The release latch is typically a glow-in-the-dark handle located on the inner side of the trunk lid, near the latch mechanism, as shown in this YouTube video. For vehicles without this, or if you are inside the trunk, a manual release lever or cable is often found along the floor on the driver's side, which you can access by lifting the carpet. Other release points include a button on the driver's side dashboard or inside the glove compartment.
 
You can watch this video to learn how to open the trunk without a key or dead battery: 36sFixITYouTube · Jun 23, 2024
From inside the trunk

• Glow-in-the-dark handle: Most modern cars have a luminous handle on the inside of the trunk lid, near the main latch. 
• Cable: In older cars, or as a backup, a cable is often routed to the driver's side of the trunk floor. You may need to pull up the carpet to find and tug it. 

From inside the car

• Dashboard button: There is often a button on the driver's side of the dashboard or center console that opens the trunk. 
• Glove compartment: Some cars have a release switch inside the glove compartment. 
• Key fob: A trunk release button is included on most car key fobs. 

This video demonstrates how to fix a stuck trunk latch: 58sPhillips VisionYouTube · Jan 27, 2023