What To Know
- If the lever is in the glove compartment, open the compartment and look for a small lever or button.
- After hearing the click, you should be able to open the trunk by pulling on the handle or pushing the button.
- While the manual trunk release is a lifesaver in a pinch, it’s not the only way to open your Highlander’s trunk if you’re facing a power issue.
Ever found yourself in a situation where your Toyota Highlander’s trunk won‘t open? Maybe the battery died, the power lock system malfunctioned, or the key fob just isn’t cooperating. Whatever the reason, being unable to access your trunk can be a real headache. But don’t worry, there’s a manual way to open your Highlander’s trunk, and this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
Understanding the Trunk Release Mechanism
The Toyota Highlander, like many modern vehicles, has a hidden manual trunk release mechanism. This is a safety feature designed to allow you to access the trunk even if the electronic system fails. The release mechanism is usually located within the vehicle’s cabin, often in a discreet location.
Locate the Manual Trunk Release Lever
The exact location of the manual trunk release lever can vary slightly depending on the model year of your Highlander. However, it’s typically found in one of these places:
- Behind the driver’s side rear seatback: This is the most common location. Look for a small lever or button that’s concealed behind the seatback.
- Inside the glove compartment: Some Highlander models have the release lever hidden within the glove compartment.
- Under the driver’s side dash: Check the lower portion of the dashboard on the driver’s side, near the floor.
How to Access the Release Lever
Once you’ve located the general area where the lever is hidden, you may need to:
- Fold down the rear seatback: If the lever is behind the seatback, fold down the seat to gain access.
- Open the glove compartment: If the lever is in the glove compartment, open the compartment and look for a small lever or button.
- Remove a panel: In some cases, you might need to remove a small panel under the dash to access the lever.
Manually Opening the Trunk
Once you’ve located the manual trunk release lever, follow these steps:
1. Locate the lever: Carefully feel around the designated area until you find the lever. It might be a small, inconspicuous button or a lever with a handle.
2. Press or pull the lever: Depending on the design, you’ll need to either press or pull the lever. The lever will usually have a small arrow or symbol indicating the direction to move it.
3. Listen for a click: You should hear a distinct click when the lever is activated.
4. Open the trunk: After hearing the click, you should be able to open the trunk by pulling on the handle or pushing the button.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you’re having trouble finding the release lever or it doesn’t seem to be working, here are a few things to consider:
- Check your owner’s manual: Your Highlander’s owner’s manual will provide the most accurate and detailed information about the location of the manual trunk release lever.
- Look for a small arrow or symbol: The lever may be marked with a small arrow or symbol indicating the direction to move it.
- Clean the lever: If the lever is dirty or obstructed, clean it with a soft cloth and try again.
- Check for any obstructions: Ensure there’s nothing blocking the lever’s movement.
- Consult a mechanic: If you’re still unable to open the trunk manually, it’s best to consult a mechanic for professional assistance.
Preventative Measures
While knowing how to open your Highlander’s trunk manually is useful in a pinch, it’s also wise to take some preventative measures to avoid this situation altogether.
- Keep your car battery charged: A dead battery can disable the electronic trunk release system.
- Check your key fob batteries: Ensure your key fob batteries are fresh and functioning properly.
- Avoid overloading the trunk: Excessive weight in the trunk can put strain on the trunk latch and potentially cause it to malfunction.
- Regularly inspect the trunk latch: Make sure the trunk latch is clean and free of debris.
Beyond the Manual Release: Other Options
While the manual trunk release is a lifesaver in a pinch, it’s not the only way to open your Highlander’s trunk if you’re facing a power issue. Here are a few additional options:
- Use a spare key: If you have a spare key, try using it to unlock the trunk.
- Call a locksmith: A locksmith can often open your trunk without damaging your vehicle.
- Contact a tow truck: If all else fails, a tow truck can transport your Highlander to a mechanic for repair.
The Final Word: Staying Prepared
Knowing how to open your Toyota Highlander trunk manually can be a real lifesaver in a pinch. By understanding the location of the manual release lever and following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be prepared to access your trunk even if the power locks fail. Remember to take preventative measures to avoid this situation in the first place, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you encounter any difficulties.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: What if the manual trunk release lever doesn’t work?
A: If the manual release lever doesn’t work, you may have a mechanical issue with the trunk latch. In this case, you’ll need to consult a mechanic for assistance.
Q: Is there a way to open the trunk from the outside if the key fob isn’t working?
A: Unfortunately, there’s no way to open the trunk from the outside if the key fob isn’t working. You’ll need to access the manual release lever from inside the vehicle.
Q: What if the trunk is jammed and won’t open even after using the manual release lever?
A: If the trunk is jammed, it’s best to consult a mechanic to diagnose the issue and attempt to free the trunk.
Q: What if I lose my key fob?
A: If you lose your key fob, you can try using a spare key if you have one. If you don’t have a spare, you’ll need to contact a locksmith or a dealership to get a new key made.
