What to Do If the Trunk of a Cruze Won't Open?

[VonLukas]

The reason why the trunk of a Cruze won't open may be due to a faulty trunk switch or a malfunctioning trunk lock mechanism. Methods to open the Cruze trunk: 1. Replace the lock: If the trunk door lock switch is broken, it may be caused by rainwater entering and corroding the trunk switch area. The failure rate is relatively high, and the only solution is to replace it with a new one. 2. Replace the lock mechanism If neither the remote control nor manual methods can open the trunk, it is likely that the trunk lock mechanism is faulty and needs to be replaced. Additionally, there is a master switch for the trunk lock above the lock mechanism. Be sure to check if the trunk not opening is due to the master switch being turned off. 3. Press the emergency escape switch There is an emergency escape switch above the Cruze trunk lock that can be pulled to open the trunk. This escape device is located at the lock cylinder of the trunk lock. On the upper part of the trunk lid, you will see a small cover. Pry open this cover to reveal a white pull tab inside. Pull this tab forcefully to trigger the switch, and the trunk will open automatically. Note that the method to open the trunk may vary depending on the brand and model of the vehicle.

[VonParker]

Last time my Cruze trunk wouldn't open, I finally figured it out after struggling for a while. If the remote key doesn't respond when pressed, try replacing the battery first - dead battery is the most common issue. If the key won't turn in the mechanical lock cylinder, the lock core might be frozen or jammed with debris - spray some rust remover into the keyhole and gently wiggle the key. The most troublesome problem is when the trunk lock actuator motor fails - you'll need to remove interior panels to check for poor wiring connections. For emergency access, here's a trick: fold down rear seats and crawl in, there's an emergency release cord behind the trunk lining - pull it to manually unlock. If all else fails, visit a repair shop - replacing the lock assembly only costs a few hundred bucks.

[JudahRose]

My old Cruze also had this issue, sharing some practical tips. First, check if the remote control button has poor contact—give the back of the remote a few taps and try again. Then, verify if the vehicle is fully unlocked, as some cars won't open the trunk when locked. If the mechanical key doesn’t work, the lock tongue might be stuck; use a screwdriver wrapped in cloth to gently pry the gap. In winter, pay extra attention to frozen lock cylinders—use a hairdryer on warm setting to blow into the keyhole for half a minute. Also, remember to inspect the rubber sealing strip for deformation after opening the trunk; sometimes, aged seals can make the trunk too tight to open. These methods are DIY-friendly and can save you towing fees.

[CollinRose]

Don't panic if your Cruze trunk won't open - follow these three simple troubleshooting steps. First, test both the remote key fob and interior button to check for electrical faults. Second, try opening with the mechanical key; if it won't turn, spray some WD-40 lubricant into the lock cylinder. Third, access through the rear seats to use the internal emergency release. Most failures occur in the electric motor, which is prone to water damage and rust. During repairs, inspect wiring connectors for oxidation - simply unplugging and reconnecting may solve the issue. The trunk release button is located either below the driver's seat or on the remote - check both locations. If all else fails, contact your dealership with the VIN for specialized solutions.