How to Manually Open Toyota Highlander Trunk


Opening the trunk of your Toyota Highlander is a simple process. However, there may be instances when the electronic trunk release malfunctions or the power is drained, requiring you to open the trunk manually. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to manually open the trunk of a Toyota Highlander.

Steps to Manually Open Toyota Highlander Trunk

If you find yourself unable to open your Toyota Highlander’s trunk electronically, you can resort to manually opening it using the following steps:

  1. Locate the manual trunk release handle: Start by locating the manual trunk release handle inside the trunk of your Toyota Highlander. It is usually situated on the inside of the trunk door or beneath the trunk’s interior lining. The position may vary depending on the model year.
  2. Remove the trunk interior panel if necessary: In some cases, accessing the manual trunk release handle might require removing the trunk interior panel. Carefully detach the panel to reveal the manual release handle.
  3. Use the manual release handle: Once the manual release handle is accessible, grab hold of it and pull or slide it in the direction indicated. This action will physically disengage the trunk latch, allowing you to manually open the trunk.
  4. Open the trunk: With the trunk latch disengaged, you can now open the trunk manually by lifting it from the exterior handle.
How to Manually Open Toyota Highlander Trunk

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Common Reasons for Manually Opening the Trunk

Understanding the common scenarios that may necessitate manual trunk opening can help you prepare for such situations. Here are some common reasons:

  • Dead battery: When the vehicle’s battery is drained, the electronic trunk release may not function, requiring you to open the trunk manually.
  • Electronic malfunction: In the event of an electronic malfunction with the trunk release mechanism, manual opening becomes essential.
  • Emergency situations: During emergencies, such as being locked out of the vehicle with a drained fob battery, knowing how to manually open the trunk can be crucial.
How to Manually Open Toyota Highlander Trunk

Credit: www.reddit.com

Toyota Highlander Trunk Safety Precautions

While familiarizing yourself with the manual trunk release process, it’s important to adhere to certain safety precautions to ensure a smooth and safe experience:

  • Be cautious when removing the trunk interior panel: If you need to remove the trunk interior panel to access the manual release handle, do so carefully to avoid damaging the panel or any components.
  • Keep the trunk area clear: Before attempting to manually open the trunk, ensure that the surrounding area is clear to prevent any obstructions from hindering the process.
  • Seek professional assistance for electronic malfunctions: If you encounter persistent issues with the electronic trunk release, it’s advisable to seek professional inspection and repair to address any underlying malfunctions.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to manually open the trunk of your Toyota Highlander is a valuable skill that can come in handy during unexpected situations or emergencies. By following the simple steps outlined above and understanding the common reasons for manual trunk opening, you can confidently address such scenarios when they arise.

Frequently Asked Questions On How To Manually Open Toyota Highlander Trunk

How Do You Manually Open A Toyota Highlander Trunk?

To manually open a Toyota Highlander trunk, locate the trunk release lever inside the vehicle. Pull the lever towards you to unlock and open the trunk.

What Should I Do If The Toyota Highlander Trunk Won’t Open?

If your Toyota Highlander trunk won’t open, first ensure that the vehicle is unlocked. If it’s still not opening, check if there’s any debris obstructing the latch mechanism. If not, consult a qualified technician for further assistance.

Can I Open The Toyota Highlander Trunk With A Dead Battery?

Yes, you can still manually open the Toyota Highlander trunk with a dead battery. Inside the vehicle, locate the emergency trunk release lever, usually near the latch. Pull the lever to manually open the trunk, even if the battery is not functional.

AL Amin Sagor

I'm Matt Goldie, a car enthusiast turned mechanic. The garage is my second home, where each engine and part tells a unique story. Seeing car owners frustrated with issues inspired me to start DIY Car Expert, offering reliable solutions to tackle problems with ease. 🚗✨

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