Trunk won't pop open

[despot]

Hi all,

My trunk won't open. It's gotten stuck before but this time I don't think it's just stuck, instead of a popping noise I'm used to hearing, I get a subtle "pttt" almost like a starter trying to crank an engine with a dead battery. Battery is fine, car starts right up and same problem occurs with the engine running.

I'm assuming that something is wrong with the solenoid or actuator that pops the trunk, but I can't seem to get it open even with a little force on it while pressing the button, and I can't get behind the rear seats because they need to be released from inside the trunk. Anyone know how I can get it open to inspect the solenoid?

Thanks!

 

[fastmark1993]

use they key....?

 

[1LoudLS]

look between the license plate surround and the right tail light, there is a little black hole, put your key in there and turn it!

 

[gcwimmer]

As others have stated use your key because it is mechanical not electrical. Then you can investigate why it is not releasing, could be as simple as latch needing lubed with lithium grease.

 

[Hernandez]

did you try the VALET button? the one in the glove box?

 

[SoonerLS]

did you try the VALET button? the one in the glove box?

2nd Gen LSes don't have that button in the box; you insert the key into the trunk release button itself and turn it to lock/unlock it. If it's locked, the button won't move, so that's unlikely to be his problem.

If all of the other electrics are working fine, the chances are that it's the solenoid/actuator that's dying. As others have noted, turning the key in the lock cylinder works a mechanical linkage, and doesn't rely on the actuator, so use it to get into the trunk to investigate.