Is there a fuse just for the trunk release?

 

Yup. Check that first.

And by the way, Sandyeggo Designs has a part to solve the problem the original owner had.

 

I believe you can remove exposed fasteners enough to lift the bottom of the bumper cover and reattach the connector. There are multiple youtube videos about how to remove the bumper cover.

 

The only electrical connector behind the bumper related to the trunk release is for the bumper push-button. Even if it were disconnected, you can still open the trunk with the key-fob or dashboard button. The other thing behind the bumper is the mechanical release lock cylinder and mechanical cable.

If the key fob/remote button, and the dash button, and the bumper pushbutton won't release the hatch, then the fuse for the hatch release motor was removed. This is fuse #26, 10A, "Trunk Relse MDL", located in the rear fuse panel, under the center of the rear cargo carpet, under the plastic cover.

Of course, the mechanical release key should still work, even if anything electrical is disconnected. If the mechanical key doesn't work, then somebody has to climb into the cargo area, pull up the carpet, to gain access to replace fuse #26....not a fun job.

C7jeo: Also, the mechanical key trunk release will turn the first 89 degrees very easily, then a good amount of force is needed to turn the key the last 1 degree, which then makes the trunk lock pop.

It is possible that he disconnected the electrical plug from the trunk release motor, but what are the odds that the mechanical key mechanism was also disconnected??? The electrical connector for the trunk release motor is only accessible by removing the black plastic interior trim panel at the rear of the cargo area.

 

I still say the guy should be tarred and feathered for doing such a dumb thing.


Elmer

 

Sawzall to the rescue!



Don't laugh or cyr you much, I've read of 'people' using this tool on their cars!