What to Do When the Kia Sportage Trunk Won't Open?
2 Answers
Remove the interior trim panel of the trunk. The trim panel is secured with clips, and it can be taken off once the clips are released. Remove the left-side fixing screw and a clip on the back metal panel of the trunk, then remove the two middle fixing screws. Next, remove one screw and a clip on the right side. The two white clips can be removed by pinching both ends with your fingers or using a small flat-head screwdriver to press them inward. Release the fixing method of the trunk switch trim panel, then disconnect the switch connector and separate the wiring harness. Install and secure the switch core properly to resolve the issue.
I've been driving a Kia Sportage for over a year, and that time when the trunk wouldn't open was really frustrating. I thought the lock was broken, but first checked the key and found the remote battery was dead. Tried using the manual key in the lock cylinder—sometimes it gets stuck, so a spray of WD-40 helps. If that doesn't work, check the interior trunk release button to ensure it's set correctly. For electric tailgates with no response, try restarting the car or checking the fuse. Safety first—don’t fiddle with it roadside; park securely first. I fixed it by replacing the battery and recommend keeping a spare mechanical key and maintaining the lock mechanism to prevent rust. This reminded me not to overlook small issues—safety is key. Regularly consulting the manual helps avoid such hassles.
