Discover Now: How to Manually Open Subaru Forester Trunk with Ease

Ever found yourself staring at your Subaru Forester with a locked trunk and a sinking feeling? We’ve all been there. Whether it’s a dead battery, a faulty latch, or a simple oversight, knowing how to manually open your Subaru Forester trunk can be a lifesaver. This guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, so you can regain access to your cargo space in no time.

Understanding the Subaru Forester Trunk Mechanism

The Subaru Forester’s trunk is designed with a simple, yet effective, locking mechanism. It relies on a latch that engages with a striker plate, securing the trunk closed. This latch is connected to the trunk release handle inside the vehicle and the keyhole on the exterior of the trunk.

When You Need to Manually Open Your Subaru Forester Trunk

There are several scenarios that might require you to manually open your Subaru Forester trunk:

• Dead Battery: If your car battery is dead, you won’t be able to use the power-operated trunk release.
• Faulty Trunk Release: A malfunctioning trunk release handle or latch can prevent the trunk from opening.
• Lost Keys: If you’ve lost your keys, you’ll need to access the trunk manually.
• Stuck Trunk: Sometimes, the trunk can get stuck due to debris or a jammed latch.

The Tools You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

• Flathead Screwdriver: This is essential for prying open the trunk latch.
• Small Pry Bar: This can be helpful for accessing the latch mechanism.
• Flashlight: A flashlight will help you see what you’re doing, especially in low-light conditions.
• Patience and Caution: Remember to work carefully and avoid damaging any components.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Manually Open Your Subaru Forester Trunk

1. Locate the Trunk Latch:

• Open the rear passenger door.
• Look for a small, rectangular panel located on the passenger side of the trunk opening, near the taillight. This panel covers the trunk latch mechanism.

2. Remove the Panel:

• Using your flathead screwdriver, gently pry around the edges of the panel to release it.
• Be careful not to damage the surrounding trim.

3. Access the Trunk Latch:

• Once the panel is removed, you’ll see the trunk latch mechanism. It’s typically a metal bar with a small hole in it.

4. Use a Tool to Engage the Latch:

• Option 1: Flathead Screwdriver: Insert the flathead screwdriver into the hole in the latch bar. Gently pry the latch bar upwards, simulating the action of the trunk release handle. You should feel the latch disengage.
• Option 2: Small Pry Bar: If the latch is particularly stubborn, you can use a small pry bar to assist with leverage. Insert the pry bar into the hole and carefully leverage it upwards.

5. Open the Trunk:

• Once the latch is disengaged, you should be able to open the trunk manually.

6. Reinstall the Panel:

• Carefully reattach the panel you removed earlier.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the latch doesn’t release: Double-check that you’re using the correct tools and applying pressure to the latch in the right direction.
• If the latch feels stuck: Try spraying a bit of lubricant (like WD-40) into the latch mechanism. Be cautious not to overspray, as this could damage sensitive parts.
• If you can’t access the latch: There might be debris blocking the latch mechanism. Carefully remove any obstructions you can reach.

Important Safety Precautions

• Always use caution when working around moving parts.
• Avoid using excessive force, as this could damage the latch mechanism.
• If you’re unsure about any part of the process, consult a Subaru service center or a qualified mechanic.

Preventing Future Trunk Lockouts

• Keep a spare car key in a safe place.
• Consider carrying a small, flathead screwdriver in your car’s emergency kit.
• Regularly check your trunk release handle and latch for any signs of wear or damage.

A Step Beyond: Alternative Methods

While the above method is the most common, there are a few other ways to manually open your Subaru Forester trunk, depending on the model year and specific circumstances:

• Using the Emergency Trunk Release: Some Subaru Forester models have an emergency trunk release located in the passenger compartment. It’s often hidden under a small panel or behind a seat. You can consult your owner’s manual for the location.
• Accessing the Latch from the Interior: If you have access to the interior of the vehicle, you might be able to reach the latch mechanism from inside. However, this might require removing interior panels, so proceed with caution.

Time to Get Your Trunk Open!

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge and steps to manually open your Subaru Forester trunk, you can confidently tackle any trunk-related issues. Remember to exercise caution, and if you’re ever unsure, consult a professional.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What if I can’t find the trunk latch panel?

A: The location of the trunk latch panel can vary slightly depending on the model year and trim level. Consult your Subaru Forester owner‘s manual for specific instructions.

Q: Will manually opening my trunk damage it?

A: If done carefully, manually opening your trunk should not cause any damage. However, excessive force or improper techniques can lead to damage.

Q: What should I do if I can’t open the trunk manually?

A: If you’ve tried all the steps and still can’t open the trunk, it’s best to contact a Subaru service center or a qualified mechanic for assistance.

Q: What if I’m experiencing repeated trunk lockouts?

A: Repeated trunk lockouts might indicate a problem with the trunk release mechanism. It’s best to have your Subaru Forester inspected by a mechanic to diagnose and address the issue.

Q: Is there a way to prevent trunk lockouts in the future?

A: Keeping a spare car key in a safe place, regularly inspecting the trunk release mechanism, and carrying a small flathead screwdriver in your car’s emergency kit can help prevent future trunk lockouts.