Where is the switch for the Subaru Forester's trunk lid?
4 Answers
The switch for the Subaru Forester's trunk lid is located on the front left door. Opening method: Except for the high-end version which comes with an electric trunk, all other Forester models require manual opening. To open it, press the small bump located below the emblem at the rear of the vehicle. Configuration: The Subaru Forester is equipped with a rich array of features. These include headlight washers, roof rails, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, heated front seats, 8-way power adjustment for the driver's seat, keyless entry, auto start-stop, automatic air conditioning, heated mirrors, navigation, Bluetooth, and tire pressure monitoring.
I've been driving the Forester for almost three years, and the trunk switch is really worth talking about. The most commonly used one is the button on the driver's side—it's right in front of the storage compartment on the main door panel, a square button with a trunk logo. Just press it to open. However, if you're standing at the rear with stuff in your hands, it's more convenient to use the physical button in the groove under the rear wiper—hold it for a second to unlock, a safety feature. The key remote is also handy; just press the trunk button in the middle twice. By the way, models after 2019 added a kick sensor function—wave your foot under the bumper (don’t actually kick the car), but remember to have the key on you. If you're temporarily in someone else's car and can't find the switch, checking these spots first is a safe bet.
Last time I helped my neighbor aunt find the Forester's trunk switch, I realized how thoughtful the design was. Since my aunt is petite and couldn't reach the roof, I showed her the easiest method: there's a trunk icon on the car key—just press it twice quickly, and the rear hatch lifts automatically. If the key battery dies, no worries—the mechanical keyhole in older models is hidden behind the Subaru emblem on the tailgate; a gentle pry with the key reveals it. Newer model owners have it even easier—no need to touch anything at all. Just swipe your foot quickly under the center of the rear bumper (make it snappy), and the lights will flash twice before the trunk opens automatically. However, a quick reminder: the foot-sensing feature might occasionally fail on rainy days, so it's safer to just press the rubber button on the right side of the tailgate.
The Forester's trunk opening method varies by model year. For pre-2018 models: 1. Locate the trunk icon in the button area below the driver's seat; 2. Press and hold the trunk button on the key fob for two seconds; 3. The manual switch is in the groove above the license plate. Post-2019 facelift: Added kick sensor in the center of the bumper - simply swipe your foot when the key is nearby to open. Two important details: First, aim your kick at the radar mark under the vehicle's center; Second, opening height is adjustable - press and hold the close button inside the trunk to set the lift range (recommend lower settings for families with children).
