What Causes the Trunk Light to Stay On?
3 Answers
The specific reasons for the trunk light staying on are as follows: Trunk Not Fully Closed: First, check if the trunk is completely closed. If not, simply re-close the trunk to resolve the issue. Ensure there are no obstructions preventing the trunk from closing properly. Faulty Trunk Sensor Switch: There is a push-button switch on the side of the trunk door that controls the trunk light. When the trunk is closed, the switch is pressed, turning off the light. When the trunk is opened, the switch is released, turning on the light. If the switch is faulty, it may need to be repaired at a 4S shop.
I found that the trunk light staying on constantly might be due to the trunk not being fully closed or something stuck in the gap, like clothes blocking the signal. Switch malfunctions are also quite common, especially in older cars where the button gets stuck in the open position or dust causes it to fail. Electrical issues are another factor—worn or short-circuited wires can keep the light on continuously, and a loose ground wire can also cause abnormal power supply. I once neglected this issue, resulting in a dead battery overnight and the car not starting. Now, I regularly check if the trunk is securely closed and wipe the switch with a soft cloth to prevent dirt buildup. I recommend you first try pressing the switch a few times or firmly closing the trunk to observe any changes in the light. If that doesn’t work, visit a professional repair shop as soon as possible to avoid more troublesome issues like electrical leaks or safety hazards.
Once during camping, my trunk light stayed on all night, and by morning, the car battery was dead. After a lot of troubleshooting, I found out the switch was stuck by sand and didn't spring back. This often happens when the trunk isn't fully closed, triggering the warning light to stay on, or when the switch ages and the button gets stuck. A short circuit could also be the culprit, like when aging wires touch and conduct electricity. Don't ignore it—immediately check if the trunk is properly closed and try tapping the switch to see if it responds. In the short term, covering the bulb with a towel can help prevent battery drain. For long-term prevention, make it a habit to check and ensure the trunk is tightly closed after loading or unloading, and keep the area clean to avoid debris, so you don't end up in a mess like I did during my vacation.
