What is the Trunk Lock Actuator all about?

The trunk or hatch on your vehicle is designed to store or transport your belongings safely. It is locked with a keyed lock cylinder, and if your vehicle is equipped with a power trunk release button, there is a trunk lock actuator mounted to the keyed lock cylinder. When entry to the trunk is requested through electrical input, either by a trunk release button inside the car or by pressing the trunk release button on a key fob, the trunk lock actuator releases the trunk latch in the same way turning a key in the lock cylinder would. When the trunk lock actuator fails or is too weak to release the trunk latch, you may not be able to access your belongings in the trunk without using the key in the lock cylinder.

Keep in mind:

• The trunk actuator can usually be activated by button or remote control. If one doesn’t work, try the other to see if the problem is with the actuator or the control method.
• If the power trunk lock actuator doesn’t function, a manual trunk lock cylinder can be used to access your belongings in the trunk.
• In some vehicles, a valet switch in the glove box will turn off the power trunk release. If the trunk lock release doesn’t work, check to make sure the valet switch is not engaged.
• A wiring problem or burnt fuse may mimic the symptoms of a failed trunk lock actuator. Have one of our expert mechanics check the system to determine the exact cause of failure.

How it's done:

• The trunk lock actuator is verified to be broken
• The inside trunk trim panel trunk is removed and the broken lock actuator is removed
• The new trunk lock actuator is installed
• The trunk lock actuator is tested for proper operation and the inside trim panels are reinstalled
• The trunk lid is opened and closed to check the latch and lock actuator operation

Our recommendation:

If the key still turns in the lock cylinder but the trunk will not open with either the trunk release button inside the car or on your key fob, you may need to replace the trunk lock actuator.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Trunk Lock Actuator?

• Power trunk release will not function but the manual trunk lock cylinder operates
• Power trunk lock button and remote key fob release buttons don’t work
• Audible click at the trunk lock when the release button is pressed but the trunk doesn’t open

How important is this service?

The trunk lock actuator is part of a convenient power trunk release system. If it doesn’t operate as designed, you’ll have to open the trunk through the manual key lock cylinder instead. You can replace it at your convenience.