Driver side trunk release not working

Tiny
DEL92
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 TOYOTA CAMRY
  • 1.2L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 75,000 MILES
The driver side trunk release lever does not release trunk lid. The key open the trunk, The remote fob opens the trunk. Is there any information showing how to replace cable attached to the driver side lever? Does this cable connect to a mechanism before it reaches the trunk lid latch? Any help with aftermarket part numbers for replacement cable, instructions, or diagrams? Thank you. DEL92
Tuesday, April 6th, 2021 AT 2:41 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,878 POSTS
Hi,

My manual shows nothing for this procedure. I'm not sure why. I will try my best to explain how it is done.

1) Open the trunk lid. There will be an insulator panel mounted to the trunk lid (trim).

2) Using a plastic fastener remover (or a screwdriver) remove the plastic retainers on the trunk lid to expose the cable.

3) Disconnect the cable from the release lever on the latch assembly.

4) Now, the cable runs across the trunk lid, down along the hinge, and then into the vehicle. To access it for removal, you will need to remove the scuff plate on both the front and rear door. See pic 1.

5) Once removed, you will see the cable running along the body of the interior. At this point, using a 10mm socket, remove the trim cover at the release lever. (I believe it's 10mm).

6) Once that is off, disconnect the cable and it is ready for removal.

What I do is this. Before removing the old one, I carefully and securely tape the new cable end to the old cable end. Then, I slowly feed it back through the vehicle.

I wish I had more info for you. Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe
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Wednesday, April 7th, 2021 AT 7:49 PM
Tiny
DEL92
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Joe, I appreciate your time to reply. Your information is very clear and is very helpful and focused guidance without me tearing apart unnecessary areas of the car. I'll be back with my results in a day or two.
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Wednesday, April 7th, 2021 AT 9:30 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,878 POSTS
Hi,

You are very welcome. I just hope it helps. I will watch for a reply.

Joe
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Thursday, April 8th, 2021 AT 6:18 PM

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