How to open an Acura RDX trunk manually?
You can manually open the trunk by using the mechanical key blade from your key fob to unlock a hidden trunk keyhole and lift the tailgate.
This guide explains how to access the Acura RDX trunk manually when the power liftgate isn’t operating, including where to find the exterior key override and what to do if you’re dealing with a dead battery or a malfunction. Model year and trim differences can affect exact location, so consult your owner’s manual for your specific vehicle.
Manual trunk access using the exterior mechanical key
If the power liftgate isn’t working, these steps show how to open the trunk with the manual key override.
- Remove the mechanical key blade from your key fob. The blade is stored inside the fob; use the release mechanism to pull it out.
- On the tailgate, locate the small access panel or hidden keyhole behind a plastic cover near the latch or under the license plate area.
- Remove the cover (if present) to reveal the mechanical keyhole, insert the key blade, and turn to release the latch.
- Lift the trunk lid by hand. If it sticks, apply steady, even force and ensure the latch is fully released before lifting.
Note: Not all RDX models place the manual keyhole in the same spot. If you can’t find a visible keyhole, consult your owner’s manual or contact a dealer for the exact location on your year and trim.
Year-to-year variations
Acura occasionally adjusts the design of the manual trunk override. The essential idea remains the same: use the hidden key slot behind a removable cover to defeat the latch and open the trunk. Always verify the exact location for your vehicle’s year and trim.
Emergency trunk release and safety considerations
For safety, modern RDX models include an emergency trunk release inside the cargo area to help someone escape if trapped. This is not a method to open the trunk from the outside, but it should be used if someone is inside the cargo area and cannot open the liftgate normally.
- Glow-in-the-dark release handle: A handle or lever located on the inside edge of the trunk lid or cargo area that glows in the dark.
To use: locate the interior release and pull firmly to disengage the latch, then open the trunk. If you cannot access the emergency release, contact roadside assistance for help.
Summary
Opening an Acura RDX trunk manually primarily relies on a mechanical key blade to unlock a hidden exterior keyhole on the tailgate. If the keyhole is inaccessible or the cover is missing, consult the owner’s manual for the precise location on your model year. In emergencies, use the interior emergency trunk release to escape from the cargo area. Regularly check that your key fob battery is healthy to prevent such issues.
