What Causes the Unusual Noise When Unlocking the Trunk?
4 Answers
The unusual noise when unlocking the trunk is caused by aging or loose sealing strips. Solution: If the sealing strip is aging, replacing it is the best option. Before replacing the sealing strip, be very careful as different car models have different sealing strips. After selecting the appropriate sealing strip, remove the old one before installation and thoroughly clean the area where the sealing strip will be applied. Pay special attention to residual adhesive, as incomplete cleaning will prevent the new sealing strip from adhering firmly. Causes of Sealing Strip Aging: Impact of air components such as oxygen and ozone. The primary cause is oxidation reactions that break the molecular chains of the sealing strip. Effects of sunlight and moisture. These are key factors accelerating aging. Moisture in the air is a necessary condition for the softening of the sealing strip, while sunlight is the main factor promoting discoloration. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can easily cause the sealing strip to deform and soften. Temperature also significantly affects the sealing strip. In cold winters, the sealing strip can harden severely, leading to breakage, while in hot summers, it can soften and loosen.
I've driven several cars, and it's quite common to hear strange noises when unlocking the trunk. Most of the time, it's due to aging lock mechanisms or lack of lubrication. Dust and small particles accumulate around the latch, and over time, they can cause friction and weird sounds. Last time, my old SUV made squeaking noises, so I sprayed some specialized lubricant into the lock hole and gently moved it a few times—it became much smoother. If left untreated, rust can make things worse, potentially causing the lock to jam and fail to open. Additionally, check the hinges of the trunk lid; if they're loose, they can also create noise. When driving, try not to slam the trunk shut too hard, and avoid parking in dusty areas to prolong its lifespan. In short, addressing small issues early saves both hassle and money—don't wait until it breaks down to regret it.
I have some knowledge about car components, and there are several possible reasons behind the squeaking noise when unlocking the trunk: First, it could be due to wear and tear of mechanical parts, such as a fatigued or deformed latch spring or insufficient tension, which causes a creaking sound when rotating. Second, poor electrical contact could be the culprit—if the unlocking mechanism is electric, aged or short-circuited wiring may produce noise. I recommend first using a multimeter to check the circuit continuity, then lubricating the moving parts. Ignoring this issue may lead to system failure as vibrations worsen, and even affect the anti-theft function. Regular maintenance, like applying grease to key points (but not too much to avoid attracting dust), can help. The type of noise can also aid diagnosis—a clicking sound suggests loose parts, while a sharp noise may indicate a nearly broken spring. If you're handy, you can dismantle and inspect it yourself; otherwise, head straight to a repair shop instead of forcing it blindly.
I'm not one to fuss over car maintenance, but the squeaking noise when unlocking the trunk is really annoying. It's probably due to some dust stuck in the latch or slight rust. Last time, I simply sprayed some WD-40 from home, waited a few minutes for it to lubricate thoroughly, and the noise reduced significantly. It could also be caused by opening the trunk too forcefully, causing misalignment and friction noise. A simple fix is usually sufficient—no need for overly complicated diagnostics. Just remember not to slam the trunk shut too hard in daily use.
