Q: Automatic trunk not closing automatically

asked by on February 03, 2016

My trunk won't close automatically like it used to. Also, my third brake light is out and the trunk interior lights no longer work.

Trunk does not lock or open Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

It sounds like you might be having a wiring issue. Most of the wires that go to the trunk are wrapped up in a wiring harness. The harness is routed in from outside then splits up and goes to its respective receiver. If the harness gets pinched or cut somehow, the circuits that it supplies will stop working. In your case, the third brake light, trunk motor, and trunk light. Finding electrical problems can be troublesome. I suggest seeking help from a qualified mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, to help you solve your trunk problem.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Jetta not starting.
There are quite a few things that can cause a cranking no start condition on a Jetta. Some common issues are faulty crankshaft sensors and faulty ignition coil. Starting with the basics generally yields the best results. Listen for fuel...
Tire going flat despite no visible damage
Hi, it can be very hard to find holes in a tire sometimes as they can be very small. It is also possible that the Schrader valve on the tire is damaged and leaking air slowly. You can try putting...
Car hesitates when accelerating.
This is a common symptom of a failing mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement). This is a unit that monitors the air and fuel mixture prior to being injected into the motor. When this is not working properly, this causes an...
Do I need to replace the lower O2 sensor or upper O2 sensor?
As you may know there are two O2 sensors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-an-oxygen-sensor-last) in your vehicle, one that measures exhaust gases prior to entering the catalytic converter and one that measures the gases as they exit the converter. The purpose of the lower...
The following dashboard lights came up at the same time (ABS, TSC OFF, TSC/DSC).
Hello. If all of those warning lights have suddenly come on then there is likely some sort of issue with the vehicle's ABS and stability control systems. Common causes for these lights are issues with the vehicle's wheel speed sensors...
No heat after replacing dead alternator
The alternator, low battery, and fuel light will have no effect on your heat. Your lack of heat is a separate issue aside from a car that won't run and cannot produce any heat. Someone has suggested you check the...
AC/heat suddenly stopped working
If no air hot or cold is blowing from the vents, there are a couple of possible causes. Air is moved through the heating and air conditioning system by the blower motor. Typically the blower motor is located on the...
I have a 1996 infinity Q45 and the ECM (computer) isn't working. I've been looking on the internet to find a new one.
Hi there. When looking for an ECM (computer) for your vehicle, as long as the computer is the same design and has the same harness connections it will adapt to your vehicle. The only thing is, you will have to...
Turbo oil leak cost Audi A6 Quattro 2002 twin turbo
Hi Hhh, Thank you for contacting YourMechanic! To set up the quote for the oil gasket leak for your vehicle, we need some extra information in order to get you the most up-to-date prices on parts and labor. Please go...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class BlueTEC
The The R-Class isn’t a minivan. It’s not a station wagon either – though it bears the slight air of one. Mercedes deems it a crossover, and that may be the closest appropriate designation but it’s not an exact match...
How Long Does a Trunk Latch Last?
The The trunk latch is located on the trunk of your vehicle and attached to the bottom of your vehicle to securely close the trunk. It is watertight and protects your valuables from the elements. Some vehicles have modules, fuses,...
What Does the Trunk Open Warning Light Mean?
The trunk open warning light indicates when your trunk is not properly closed. If you are unable to close it, the latch may need to be fixed.