Experiencing a problem with your Subaru Outback’s trunk or liftgate not opening can turn a regular day into a frustrating one. Whether it’s a technical glitch or mechanical wear-and-tear, there are several potential causes for this issue.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common reasons why your Subaru Outback trunk might not open, including liftgate issues, and discuss how to fix them.
Table of Contents
Understanding Liftgate Issues
Before diving into the specific problems, it’s important to know what the liftgate is. The liftgate is your Subaru Outback’s rear door, allowing you to access the trunk space. In most modern Subaru Outbacks, the liftgate is automated and can be controlled remotely.
Problem: Liftgate is Not Responding
One common problem you may face with your Subaru Outback is the liftgate not responding to your commands, either from the interior switch, the key fob, or the external trunk release button. This could be due to various reasons, including electrical issues, a faulty switch, or a malfunctioning liftgate motor.
Solution: Reset the Liftgate
How do you reset the back hatch on a Subaru Outback?
If your liftgate isn’t functioning, you might need to reset it. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- First, turn your Subaru Outback off and then back on.
- Next, manually close the liftgate and ensure it’s properly latched.
- Then, wait for approximately 10 seconds.
- Now, try to open the liftgate using the interior switch, the key fob, or the external trunk release button.
This will most likely reset the liftgate, allowing it to function normally again.
Alternatively, if you’ve tried resetting the liftgate and it hasn’t worked, try manually disconnecting the battery[1]. This can sometimes cause everything to start working normally again.
There might be many other reasons that your Subaru Outback’s trunk isn’t opening, so if the above solution doesn’t work, take a look at some of the potential issues below.
Other Reasons Your Subaru Outback Trunk Might Not Open
Beyond liftgate issues, there can be other reasons your Subaru Outback trunk isn’t opening.
Problem: Blown Fuse
The electrical system in your vehicle uses fuses to protect the circuits from overloading. If the fuse associated with the liftgate has blown, it may prevent the trunk from opening.
This is less common than some of the other issues.
Solution: Replace the Fuse
You’ll need to replace the blown fuse with a new one with the same amperage rating. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual for the correct fuse and the replacement procedure.
Problem: Dead Key Fob Battery
If your trunk doesn’t respond when you press the button on your key fob, the key fob battery may have died.
Solution: Replace the Key Fob Battery
You can easily replace your key fob battery by opening the key fob casing and replacing the old battery with a new one. Your specific battery type will depend on your vehicle’s model.
Problem: Faulty Trunk Latch
A faulty or misaligned trunk latch can prevent your Subaru Outback trunk from opening.
Solution: Adjust or Replace the Trunk Latch
Inspect the latch for any visible damage. If the latch is misaligned, you might be able to fix the issue by adjusting it. However, if the latch is broken, you must replace it. This task can be complex, so consider seeking professional help and going to your local mechanic.
A non-responsive Subaru Outback trunk can be due to several reasons, ranging from liftgate issues to a blown fuse, a dead key fob battery, or a faulty trunk latch. Use our guide above to identify and potentially fix the problem.
However, always remember that when in doubt, it’s best to consult with a professional mechanic to avoid causing further damage to your vehicle.
