
The trunk switch of the RAV4 is positioned on the left side of the center console. Trunk light switch: The trunk switch is integrated with the trunk light. When the trunk is closed, the trunk light will automatically turn off. If the trunk light remains on, it may indicate a malfunction with the trunk sensor switch. The trunk door has a locking slot; if the door does not engage with this mechanism when closed, the trunk light will stay illuminated. Precautions for trunk usage: When going on a road trip and carrying many items, it's important to pay attention to how items are arranged. The principle of "large items at the bottom, small items on top; heavy items in the front, light items in the back" should be followed. This arrangement helps prevent items from the rear damaging those in the front during sudden braking.

The RAV4's trunk can actually be opened in several ways, depending on your specific model. The physical button is located under the emblem on the tailgate—just lift the cover beneath the emblem to find the black button. You can also press it to open the trunk when the car is locked, which is a handy design. The key fob also has a trunk release button; holding it for three seconds allows remote opening, which is especially convenient when carrying groceries. Mid-to-high trim versions have an additional physical button near the driver’s door armrest or the lower-left area of the steering wheel, allowing operation without leaving the seat. Lastly, don’t forget that some models with a hands-free feature have a sensor area under the rear bumper—stand near the trunk with the key, and a foot swipe will trigger automatic opening. Newer RAV4 models may have design changes, so I recommend checking your car’s manual for confirmation.

As a mom who drives her kids every day, I also couldn't find the trunk switch when I first started driving the RAV4. It's hidden under the tailgate emblem - if you crouch down, you'll notice the indentation beneath the emblem is actually pressable. It's even easier if you have the key fob - just long-press the button with the trunk symbol in the middle. When I flipped open the passenger side storage compartment, I found the manual which mentioned that the smart key version allows you to simply wave your foot under the vehicle's sensor area. This really came in handy on rainy days when my hands were full holding the child. I heard the newer RAV4 models moved the button next to the gear shift, but my 2020 model doesn't have this feature. It took me quite some time to figure things out when I first got the car - once I accidentally honked in a supermarket parking lot, which was super embarrassing.

The most basic one is a button located below the trunk handle. On the key fob, press and hold the trunk icon button to open. The remote opening function needs to be activated in advance through the vehicle settings on the central control screen. Some models support foot sensor activation—simply swipe your foot quickly under the rear bumper to trigger it. The interior button is usually located in the control area to the left of the steering wheel or above the driver's door storage compartment. For high-end models post-2020, the button has been relocated to the gear shift area. Remember to check if the vehicle is in Park (P) mode—this is a safety feature, as some cars won’t respond if in Drive (D) mode. After washing the car, the sensor may malfunction temporarily; wiping off water residue will restore normal operation.


