trunk release?

2006 TOYOTA AVALON

21,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

J12251225

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I would like to disable the trunk release button on the lower left side of the dashboard without disabling the trunk release capability on the wireless remote control (for the model with key ignition switch).

The reason I want to do this is to simplify opening the trunk. To reduce the chances of theft from the trunk due a break-in of the passenger compartment, one must disable the trunk release button on the dashboard by pushing a button in the glove compartment and them locking the glove compartment. Unfortunately, pushing this glove compartment button also disables the trunk release button on the wireless remote control. The trunk does not have a key hole. Thus, with the button in the glove compartment set and the glove compartment locked, it's a pain to put the laptop or other valuable item used during a trip into the trunk whenever making a stop.

Disabling the trunk release button on the dashboard without disabling the trunk release button on the wireless remote control would make it easy to open the trunk without unlocking the glove compartment and pushing the button at the beginning and end of each rest stop -- just like the old days when there was a trunk key hole!

Nov 15, 2008 at 9:20 PM

2CARPRO JACK

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Instead of messing with any wiring, go to Toyota and get the dash plug for where the button goes without that option (no hole) pop the button out of the old bezel and push it back in the dash behind the new cover (no hole) that way you have left it all intact so the system doesnt know the differnece and the button is hidden behind the cover

May 4, 2009 at 7:54 AM

J12251225

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6 POSTS

Jack,
I think you have me headed in the right direction, but I'm not quite there yet. I went to a Toyota dealer to get the part you suggested. It turns out on the 2006 Avalon XLS, the trunk release and the gas cover release are together in just one part, even though they appear to be separate parts. Therefore, I would have to pop both release buttons and push them back into the dash before using the piece that would cover both holes.

Is there some other way to make the trunk release button inoperable or unavailable? For example, could there be a separate fuse just for that button?
Thanks for your help,
Jim

May 19, 2009 at 7:36 PM

2CARPRO JACK

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The fuse feeds more than just the trunk release.Have you tried unplugging it? does thetrunk switch have aseperate connector, if so you should be able to just unplug it without it effecting anything else.It is simply a grounding switch so it wont hurt anything to unplug it

May 20, 2009 at 7:37 AM

J12251225

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6 POSTS

Jack,

I've carefully studied the fuse charts in the owner's manual and cannot figure out which fuse controls the trunk release. In addition, I'm not sure how to unplug the connector to the trunk release button on the lower dash panel to the left of the steering wheel without removing the entire panel. Also, is it possible for you to post a slightly higher resolution image of the wiring diagram? I was unable to read most of what was in the iimage in your last email, even when I looked at the jpg file directly.

Thanks again for your help,
Jim

May 24, 2009 at 2:13 PM

2CARPRO JACK

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Forget the fuse, it runs other things as well.You will most likely have pop the panel off to access the plug.Send me your email and I will email you the diagram If you still need it after unplugging the switch

May 25, 2009 at 8:18 AM

MERCYEBERE

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i took my car to a mechanic to check why the car AC is not working. after trouble shooting and opening of different compartment in the car and checking the fuses, i observed that the truck is no longer opening with the remote and also when i press the switch on the dashboard.

Dec 31, 2020 at 10:29 AM (Merged)

STRAILER

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Hello,

It sounds like you have a fuse or a latch that has gone bad here are a couple of guides to help you get the problem fixed.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

To see if the latch is getting power when you hit the switch.

Here are the fuse locations (below)

Please run some tests and get back to us we are interested to see what it is.

Cheers, Ken

Images (Click to enlarge)

Dec 31, 2020 at 10:29 AM (Merged)

BANKSM1250

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1 POST

Electrical problem
6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic 43000 miles

My trunk will not open from my key control or the button under my dashboard or in my car. I was able to get a stick and open it up with the lever that is actually in the trunk. I opened up the middle part of the back seat to reach back. I believe my fuse is blown. I looked at the fuse box under the dashboard and under the hood and neither indicated a fuse for my trunk. Do you know where it is, if it exist at all?

Dec 31, 2020 at 10:29 AM (Merged)

STRAILER

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Hello,

Here is a wiring diagrams (below) for the trunk release circuit so you can do some testing.

Here are some guides to help out.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

Please run some tests and get back to us we are interested to see what it is.

Cheers, Ken

Images (Click to enlarge)

Dec 31, 2020 at 10:29 AM (Merged)

IDAN MOR

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1 POST

Trunk release button on dash opens the trunk. Remote control lock, unlock and panic buttons work but trunk release button doesn't work. how can i fix that?

Dec 31, 2020 at 10:29 AM (Merged)

JOETECHPRO

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Hey IDAN MOR,

Sounds like you have an issue with the key.

Do you have a spare key?

If so try that and if the trunk release works you will have to replace the faulty key.

If not if you go to a dealer they should have a remote tester to see if you are getting any output from the key when the button is pressed. They may do this for free, they will want to sell you a new key. If you have key output or the spare works we will have to move onto further tests.

Hope that helps.

Regards, Joe

Dec 31, 2020 at 10:29 AM (Merged)

PETRUSPRIMUS

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The position of the lock is engaged, but neither key nor trunk release inside opens it. Rain may have had some contribution. Neither of my keys opens and I don't believe the trunk is electronically wired, though the car does have automatic locks.

Dec 31, 2020 at 10:29 AM (Merged)

HMAC300

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48,601 POSTS

while holding the key in the unlock posiiton try smacking the trunk with your hand, sometimes that breaks it loose enoguh to open. or if you have aiwde piece of meterial that will fit between opening like wood or plastic, try prying up on that.if your keys done' fit eh lock then take it to a locksmith , they can make up a key for you but it will cost somemoney for that.

Dec 31, 2020 at 10:29 AM (Merged)

WSTEPTORE59

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1 POST

Trunk will not open with key or trunk release

Dec 31, 2020 at 10:29 AM (Merged)

STRAILER

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I would remove the rear seat and see if you can get in that way the latch must be broken and not opening the clasp. Bring tools into the trunk with you so you can unbolt the latch so it can be replaced.

But check the fuses because the latch is motorized. Here is a guide please get back to me.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

It could be the theft deterrent module not allowing the trunk motor to work as well.

Check out the diagrams (Below)

Please let us know what you find.

Cheers, Ken

Images (Click to enlarge)

Dec 31, 2020 at 10:29 AM (Merged)