FAULTBASE
Error CodesASKCars
© 2026 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
How do I resolve the problems with the trunk release button not working on my 2020 Toyota Highlander... - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/How do I resolve the problems with the trunk release button not working on my 2020 Toyota Highlander...

How do I resolve the problems with the trunk release button not working on my 2020 Toyota Highlander...

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
1-2 hours
Time
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
729 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and repair the trunk release button not working on your 2020 Toyota Highlander with our detailed guide.

Affected Component
trunk release system
Estimated Time
1-2 hours

Symptoms

  • •Trunk release button on the key fob does not work.
  • •Trunk release button located inside the car does not work.
  • •Trunk may still open manually with the key or by using the physical latch.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •CR2032 battery
  • •small flathead screwdriver
  • •multimeter
  • •fuse puller or needle-nose pliers
  • •fuse diagram
  • •basic hand tools

Additional Information

Affected Component
trunk release system
Estimated Time
1-2 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
6 items

Related Faults

Loading...

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Certainly! Let's go through a detailed troubleshooting and repair process for a non-functioning trunk release button on your 2020 Toyota Highlander.

Step 1: Inspect the Key Fob

  1. Symptoms Check: Ensure the key fob has a strong battery. If the trunk release button works intermittently, the battery may be weak.
  2. Tools Required: CR2032 battery (if replacement is needed), small flathead screwdriver.
  3. Action:
    • Open the key fob using a small flathead screwdriver.
    • Replace the battery and reassemble the fob.
    • Test the trunk release button after replacing the battery.

Step 2: Check the Trunk Release Switch

  1. Locate the Switch: The interior trunk release switch is typically found on the driver's side of the dashboard.
  2. Symptoms Check: Ensure the switch is not physically damaged or stuck.
  3. Tools Required: Multimeter.
  4. Action:
    • Using the multimeter, check for continuity in the switch by disconnecting the switch connector and testing with the multimeter set to the continuity setting.
    • If the switch does not show continuity when pressed, it may need replacement.

Step 3: Inspect Fuse

  1. Locate the Fuse Box: The fuse box is usually located under the dashboard on the driver's side or in the engine compartment.
  2. Tools Required: Fuse puller or needle-nose pliers, fuse diagram (usually found on the fuse box cover).
  3. Action:
    • Identify the fuse associated with the trunk release (refer to the fuse diagram).
    • Remove the fuse and inspect it visually for any signs of damage (broken wire or burnt).
    • If the fuse is blown, replace it with a fuse of the same amperage.

Step 4: Check for Wiring Issues

  1. Symptoms Check: Look for any signs of frayed or damaged wiring leading to the trunk release switch and the trunk latch actuator.
  2. Tools Required: Visual inspection, multimeter.
  3. Action:
    • Inspect the wiring harness for damage.
    • If damaged wires are found, repair them with electrical tape or replace the entire harness if necessary.

Step 5: Test the Trunk Actuator

  1. Symptoms Check: If the buttons are working but the trunk still does not open, the trunk actuator may be faulty.
  2. Tools Required: Multimeter, basic hand tools for access.
  3. Action:
    • Access the trunk latch assembly (usually requires removing interior trim panels).
    • Disconnect the actuator connector and use the multimeter to check for power when the button is pressed.
    • If power is present but the actuator doesn’t respond, replace the trunk latch actuator.
Repair Instructions

Once you've identified the issue through the diagnostic steps, follow the appropriate repair instructions based on your findings.

If Key Fob Battery Needed Replacement:

  • Replace the battery as described in Step 1.

If Trunk Release Switch Needed Replacement:

  1. Disconnect the vehicle battery to ensure safety.
  2. Remove the trim panel covering the switch (if applicable).
  3. Disconnect the wiring harness from the old switch.
  4. Install the new switch and reconnect the wiring harness.
  5. Reassemble the trim panel.
  6. Reconnect the vehicle battery.

If Fuse Needed Replacement:

  • Replace the blown fuse with a new one of the same amperage.

If Wiring Issues Found:

  1. Repair or replace damaged wiring as necessary.
  2. Ensure all connections are secure and insulated.

If Trunk Actuator Needed Replacement:

  1. Disconnect the vehicle battery.
  2. Remove any interior trim panels to access the trunk latch assembly.
  3. Disconnect the old actuator and note the wiring connections.
  4. Install the new actuator and reconnect the wiring.
  5. Reassemble the trim panels and reconnect the battery.
Final Testing

After completing the necessary repairs, test the trunk release button both on the key fob and inside the vehicle to ensure that everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

By following these detailed steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the trunk release button issue on your 2020 Toyota Highlander effectively. If problems persist after all these checks, it may be advisable to consult with a professional technician for further diagnosis.