My rear hatch has developed a random problem. When I go to open it, the key fob nor the trunk button will work. However, when I open the door, the fob and button work again. It doesn't do it every time. Does anyone have any ideas? It is an '05 with the original battery.

 

I would bet on the battery in the fob...certainly the first $3 thing to try.

 

If it just failed to open with the button I would bet that the switch had gotten dirt (road grim) in it which is easily fixed and a common problem.
Since you are having trouble with both as the precious post says, change the FOB battery.

 

I have already changed the battery in the fob. It was the first thing I did when this problem started. It did not seem to change the frequency of the problem.

 

Oops after re-reading your post, your problem is common to both the button and the FOB in which case it is the latch system. I no longer have a coupe but as I remember, pull back the carpet just inside the rear compartment. That will give you the ability to see the latch. It is common for the latch to become disconnected. Look at it carefully you may find that yours is on the verge of disconnecting.

I'm at 35,000 feet out over the Gulf of Mexico or I could go look at my vert and give you a better description.

 

I have now pushed all the connections together. They did not seem to be loose at all. Since the problem is random, time will tell if this was the problem. Thanks for your help.

 

No, prob .....when you say you pushed everything together I assume you were talking about the electrical connects. That isn't usually where the problem starts. It is the mechanical link that slips off between the electric servo and the latch. With the hatch open and the carpet pulled back you should be able to trip the latch closed and the by watching while you open it with the FOB You will see how it operates and see if it is binding.

 

I've checked the cable and it looks fine. I see how it could come loose. The problem goes away once the driver door is opened and the fob and switch will work with no problem. Then it won't have an issue for a while. Sometimes it takes days, weeks, or months before it will occur again.

 

I have the same problem with my 05 vert...

 

I had the same issue(s) with my '05, road grime and FOB battery. No similar issues with my '10 GS though.

 

Not only because CClive is a genius with this stuff but it is always good to eliminate the cheapest possible fixes first. I would even look into the battery as well if you get the chance but not before changing out the key fob battery.

Brent
GM Customer Service

 

Do you have another fob you can try?

 

I do have another fob but when it happens, I have not had it with me to try.

I've now changed the battery in my fob and will wait until it happens again. I'll post again if it happens. Thanks for the help everyone.