LS - 1st and 2nd Gen (1990-2000) Discussion topics related to the 1990 - 2000 Lexus LS400

Trunk Won't Open w/ Inside Switch

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 04-01-18, 08:15 PM
  #1  
gebo
Advanced
Thread Starter
 
gebo's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Virginia
Posts: 697
Received 15 Likes on 12 Posts
Default Trunk Won't Open w/ Inside Switch

I can open the trunk on my '98 LS400 with the key and the fob button. However, it won't open when I pull up on the little switch inside the car on the lower left side of the dash. I pull on the switch and it doesn't make any type of noise. I can use the key and press the open trunk button on the OEM fob and it opens like a charm. Any ideas?
Old 04-01-18, 08:26 PM
  #2  
eddievegas
Driver
 
eddievegas's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: AZ
Posts: 109
Received 5 Likes on 5 Posts
Default

I have no direct experience with this problem, but I did just go do this on my 2000.

It sounds like there is an actuator that releases the lock. This is similar to what the doors have. I have replaced one of those and the part is about $100 and the time needed to open the door.

If it is the trunk actuator, it should be easier to get to, but that is only a guess.

It could also be electrical, but I doubt it. That can be checked too, but you are on your own for that.

Good luck,

Eddie
Old 04-01-18, 11:50 PM
  #3  
dicer
Lead Lap
 
dicer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: ca
Posts: 4,525
Received 97 Likes on 89 Posts
Default

If they are like a gen 1 there is a key switch that isolates the trunk release system.
Old 04-02-18, 04:31 AM
  #4  
billydpowe
Lexus Champion
iTrader: (1)
 
billydpowe's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: texas
Posts: 3,225
Received 172 Likes on 130 Posts
Default valet key lockout

Originally Posted by gebo
I can open the trunk on my '98 LS400 with the key and the fob button. However, it won't open when I pull up on the little switch inside the car on the lower left side of the dash. I pull on the switch and it doesn't make any type of noise. I can use the key and press the open trunk button on the OEM fob and it opens like a charm. Any ideas?
YES, your manual explains this safety system, in your hand brake release is a key slot, push it in and no one can open your trunk from within the car. just insert your key (not your valet key) and turn it and it will open... read your manual for reasons to have a valet key...
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
tevieray
Maintenance
8
04-12-23 03:06 PM
Andyb63
GS - 3rd Gen (2006-2011)
4
09-09-15 02:16 PM
jiggahwh0
SC- 1st Gen (1992-2000)
2
09-26-10 08:06 AM



Quick Reply: Trunk Won't Open w/ Inside Switch



All times are GMT -7. The time now is 04:19 AM.