How to Fix a Broken Trunk Release Cable?
3 Answers
Remove three interior trim panels: the left, right, and rear panels above the rear seat. There are three hex screws on each side panel and three plastic screws on the rear panel. Fold down the rear seat backrest by removing two hex screws securing the backrest. Access the screws through the round holes behind the rear seat; there is a corresponding hole for each screw. Crawl into the trunk to open the trunk lid. Pull the broken release cable to open the door. If the cable cannot be located, remove the two hex screws securing the latch to open it. After the broken cable is removed, replace it with a new trunk release cable assembly.
The trunk release cable in my car also broke last month, right after I returned from a road trip. The cable had worn out badly due to aging. I immediately checked the manual, bought a replacement cable of the same model for just 30 yuan, and replaced it myself: first, I removed the trunk interior panel, located the broken cable end, then installed and secured the new cable—the whole process took half an hour with just a screwdriver. Remember to take photos of the original setup beforehand to avoid incorrect reassembly. Regularly inspect the cable for rust and lubricate it to prevent breakage. Doing it myself saved me 200 yuan in repair costs, and it felt quite rewarding.
A broken trunk release cable is indeed troublesome. I was also confused when I was a beginner. It's recommended to visit a professional repair shop. The mechanic will remove the interior trim to check whether it's a loose connection or a complete break, and replacing it with a new cable will make it work smoothly. Never force it open, as it may damage more components. A temporary solution is to manually open the trunk lid with the key, usually located in a hidden spot below the license plate. The repair costs around 100 yuan, and choosing high-quality materials can extend its lifespan by several years.
