Is It Normal for a Car Trunk Not to Close?
3 Answers
It is not normal for a car trunk not to close, and it requires timely inspection and repair. Here is a detailed introduction about car trunks: 1. Overview: The trunk of a car is the area where spare items are stored and goods are loaded. Since compact cars are divided into hatchbacks and sedans, the size of the trunk varies accordingly. 2. Others: Under normal circumstances, the trunk usually contains the car's spare tire, first aid kit, onboard tool kit, warning triangle, fire extinguisher, car refrigerator, emergency fuel cap release cable, etc. Some SUV and MPV models are also equipped with an emergency flashlight.
I remember that day when I drove to the supermarket, the trunk just wouldn't close, which almost drove me crazy. Under normal circumstances, the trunk absolutely shouldn't fail to close—it's not a minor issue. If you can't shut it no matter how hard you try, something might be stuck in the trunk latch, or the lock could be broken. Once, I had a large bag in my car that pressed against the edge, and it got stuck for a while—took me forever to fix it. Driving with an open trunk is especially dangerous; items could fly out on the highway and hurt someone, or rain and dust could get in and damage the interior. I suggest you first check if there are any objects or clothes blocking the latch. If it still won't close, don't force it—head to a repair shop right away. Don't delay too long, or a small problem could turn into a big one, costing more and becoming a hassle. Taking a quick glance at the trunk's condition before each drive can prevent issues—developing good habits is key.
My old car has had the trunk not closing tightly several times, which is definitely abnormal. The most common causes are loose or worn trunk latches or hinges, as these parts naturally degrade over time. It could also be due to not aligning properly when closing or electrical issues with the rear hatch wiring causing the power lock to fail. Last time, I did a quick check myself: first tried re-locking the manual latch, but if it still felt loose, it might be a broken internal spring or debris stuck inside. During regular maintenance, I make sure to clean the latch area when washing the car to prevent dust buildup and sticking. A trunk that won’t close doesn’t just inconvenience you—water leakage during rain can corrode the chassis, and items may fall out during long trips, causing hazards. Don’t try fixing it yourself; consult a professional to diagnose the root issue—repairs are usually affordable and hassle-free.