Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your Toyota Highlander’s power liftgate suddenly refuses to cooperate, leaving you fumbling with groceries or struggling to load your belongings? Frustration can quickly settle in as you contemplate the expense of having it professionally repaired. But fear not! In this guide, we will unveil the secrets of manually opening your Toyota Highlander trunk, allowing you to take control of the situation and save on costly repairs. From resetting the liftgate to checking for a simple switch that may have been turned off, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to empower yourself with the knowledge to tackle this common issue and reclaim your trunk’s functionality.
How To Manually Open Toyota Highlander Trunk
If the power liftgate on your Toyota Highlander stops working, you can manually open the trunk using the keyhole on the rear door or the emergency release. Resetting the liftgate by holding the liftgate button for 10 seconds or turning the liftgate function back on may also fix the issue. It is also worth checking for dirty tracks or sensors that may require further inspection. The cost of trunk repair can vary depending on the problem, ranging from a few dollars for a fuse replacement to several hundred dollars for a power liftgate motor replacement.
Key Points:
- Manually open the trunk using the keyhole on the rear door or the emergency release
- Reset the liftgate by holding the liftgate button for 10 seconds
- Turn the liftgate function back on if it has been turned off
- Check for dirty tracks or sensors that may require further inspection
- The cost of trunk repair varies depending on the problem
- Expenses can range from a few dollars for a fuse replacement to several hundred dollars for a power liftgate motor replacement
Sources
https://getjerry.com/car-repair/toyota-highlander-trunk-wont-open
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AtGpzx2MF0
https://www.toyotanation.com/threads/how-do-you-open-trunk-with-a-dead-battery.603593/
https://victoriamgclub.com/how-do-you-open-toyota-highlander-trunk-from-inside/
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💡 Pro Tips:
1. If the power liftgate on your Toyota Highlander is not working, try resetting it by disconnecting the car’s battery for a few minutes, then reconnecting it.
2. Check the fuse for the power liftgate in the fuse box. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one and see if the liftgate starts working again.
3. Make sure the key fob battery is not dead or low. Weak batteries can sometimes cause the liftgate to stop working.
4. Inspect the liftgate tracks for any dirt or debris that may be preventing it from operating properly. Clean the tracks thoroughly and see if that resolves the issue.
5. Check the liftgate sensor located near the latch. If it is dirty or obstructed, clean it carefully to ensure proper functionality.
The power liftgate on a Toyota Highlander is a convenient feature that allows for easy access to the trunk. However, like any other mechanical component, it may encounter issues over time. The good news is that many of these problems can be resolved at home without the need for professional assistance. In this article, we will explore various troubleshooting methods and provide step-by-step instructions on how to manually open the trunk if the liftgate is not functioning properly.
Resetting Liftgate Button For 10 Seconds
One of the simplest solutions for a malfunctioning power liftgate is to reset the system. To do this, start by locating the liftgate button inside your Toyota Highlander. It is typically located on the key fob or in the interior of the vehicle. Once located, press and hold the liftgate button for a continuous 10 seconds. This action will reset the liftgate system and may resolve any minor glitches causing the malfunction.
Turning Liftgate Function Back On
Another common reason why the power liftgate may not be working is that the function has been accidentally turned off. To check if this is the case, refer to your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions on accessing the settings menu. Once you have accessed the settings, look for the option to enable the liftgate function. Make sure to toggle the function back on if it is currently disabled. After enabling the liftgate function, check if the power liftgate is functioning properly.
Inspecting Dirty Tracks And Sensors
If the previous methods did not resolve the issue, it is possible that dirt, debris, or faulty sensors are causing the malfunction. To inspect the tracks, start by locating them on the bottom part of the liftgate. Inspect the tracks for any signs of dirt or obstructions. If you notice any debris, clean the tracks using a damp cloth or a suitable cleaning solution. In addition to the tracks, check the sensors located near the liftgate to ensure they are clean and free from obstructions.
Manually Opening Trunk Without Liftgate
In situations where the power liftgate is completely non-functional, it is essential to know how to manually open the trunk. Toyota Highlanders generally provide two options for manual trunk operation – the keyhole on the rear door or an emergency release. To use the keyhole option, simply insert the key into the keyhole on the rear door and turn it counterclockwise. This action should unlock the trunk, allowing you to open it manually. If your vehicle is equipped with an emergency release, locate the release handle or lever inside the trunk area and pull it to open the trunk.
Using Keyhole Or Emergency Release
The keyhole and emergency release options are vital backup mechanisms for accessing the trunk when the power liftgate is not functioning. Ensure that you are familiar with their locations and operation before encountering a situation where you need them. In the event of a power failure or an electrical issue preventing the liftgate from opening, the keyhole and emergency release will be your go-to methods for gaining access to the trunk.
Varying Cost Of Trunk Repair
The cost of repairing a malfunctioning trunk in a Toyota Highlander can vary depending on the specific issue. Minor problems such as a blown fuse can be resolved inexpensively, usually costing only a few dollars for a replacement fuse. However, more significant issues such as a faulty power liftgate motor may require professional assistance and cost several hundred dollars for the replacement part and labor. If the liftgate is under warranty, it is recommended to contact an authorized Toyota service center for repairs.
Jerry App For Car Insurance Savings
Although not directly related to the topic, it is worth mentioning the Jerry app for potential car insurance savings. The Jerry app is designed to help car owners find the best and most affordable car insurance policies that match their needs. By comparing rates from multiple insurance providers, the Jerry app empowers users to make informed decisions and potentially save hundreds of dollars on their car insurance premiums. Downloading and using the Jerry app is an effective way to reduce the overall cost of car ownership.
In conclusion, the power liftgate on a Toyota Highlander can often be fixed at home if it stops working. By following the provided instructions to reset the liftgate, checking and enabling the liftgate function, inspecting dirty tracks and sensors, and learning how to manually open the trunk using the keyhole or emergency release, you can overcome various liftgate issues. If the problem persists, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.
As a seasoned mechanic and proud owner of three successful car workshops, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people just like you overcome their everyday automotive challenges. I created this website as a labor of love, with a simple mission: to make car maintenance and repairs more accessible and approachable for the “average joe.”