What is the Trunk Latch Release Cable all about?

In some vehicles, the trunk latch release cable allows the driver to press a button from the cabin to open the trunk; in others, it is a mechanical lever inside the vehicle that the driver pulls. It operates similarly to the hood latch release system, but has the benefits of a secondary (and sometimes tertiary) opening system in case of trunk latch release cable failure. A mechanically-released trunk latch release cable runs from the lever to the latch inside your trunk. When the release is pulled, the cable pulls the trunk latch release to open the trunk. In a trunk release with an electric button, the cable runs from an electrical actuator to the trunk latch. If the cable breaks at any point, the in-cab trunk opening system won’t operate. Drivers will need to use their key to open the trunk (or the trunk latch release on their remote/key fob). If the cable becomes seized, the cable could get stuck in the open position, not allowing the trunk to latch closed.

Keep in mind:

• It is difficult to verify the condition of the trunk latch release cable visually, as it is completely hidden.
• The cable should last the lifetime of the vehicle, but it can be damaged by corrosion or excessive physical force.

How it's done:

• The vehicle trunk is opened and any trim paneling is removed for easy access to the cable
• The defective cable is removed from the latch and the interior
• The new cable is installed and connected to the latch and control handle
• The trim paneling is reinstalled
• The trunk latch release system is tested for proper operation

Our recommendation:

If the trunk latch release isn’t operable from the interior button/release, but the trunk opens by using the key, the release cable is likely broken or seized. Have one of our expert mechanics replace the trunk latch release cable.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Trunk Latch Release Cable?

• Pressing the release button in the cabin does not open the trunk/release the latch
• Trunk is only operable with the key
• Trunk will not latch closed

How important is this service?

Because your trunk has more than one means of opening, replacing your trunk latch release cable is not a high priority. This is a convenience feature rather than one integral to safety or vehicle operation. Have the trunk release cable replaced at your convenience.