Having a dead battery in your Subaru Outback can be a frustrating experience, especially when you need to access the trunk. But fear not! We have the solution for you on how to open the Subaru Outback trunk with a dead battery. So, if you find yourself in this predicament, keep reading to discover a simple and straightforward method that will save you time and hassle. No need to worry about unlocking or unleashing any complex mechanisms – we’ve got you covered! Let’s dive right in and learn how to open the Subaru Outback trunk with a dead battery.
How to Open Subaru Outback Trunk with Dead Battery
Introduction
The Subaru Outback is a popular crossover SUV known for its versatility and reliability. However, what do you do when you find yourself with a dead battery and you need to access your trunk? In this article, we will guide you through the process of opening the trunk of a Subaru Outback with a dead battery, ensuring you can retrieve your belongings or jump-start your vehicle. Read on to discover the step-by-step procedure for tackling this situation.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before we delve into the steps, let’s gather all the tools and materials you will need to successfully open the Subaru Outback trunk with a dead battery:
- Car key
- Access to a power source (for charging the battery)
- Portable jump starter or jumper cables (optional)
- Flathead screwdriver
- Wrench or socket set (if necessary)
- Flashlight (if working in low-light conditions)
- Protective gloves (optional, but recommended for safety)
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have your tools and materials ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of opening the trunk of your Subaru Outback with a dead battery:
Step 1: Approach the Vehicle
1. Ensure the Subaru Outback is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.
2. Stand close to the driver’s side door with the car key in hand.
Step 2: Unlock the Driver’s Door
1. Use the car key to manually unlock the driver’s side door by inserting it into the keyhole located on the door handle.
2. Turn the key clockwise to unlock the door.
Step 3: Locate the Trunk Release Button
1. Once inside the vehicle, look for the trunk release button or lever.
2. In most Subaru Outback models, the trunk release button is located on the driver’s side door panel, near the bottom.
Step 4: Access the Trunk Release Cable
1. If your Subaru Outback has fold-down rear seats, access the trunk by folding down the rear seatback.
2. Look for a handle or strap located near the top of the seatback, usually on the driver’s side.
3. Pull the handle or strap to release the rear seatback, creating a passageway from the rear seat area to the trunk.
4. If your Subaru Outback doesn’t have fold-down rear seats, proceed to Step 5.
Step 5: Remove the Trunk Trim Panel
1. Using a flathead screwdriver, carefully pry off the trunk trim panel near the bottom of the trunk door.
2. Work your way around the panel, gently releasing the clips or screws that secure it in place.
3. Take your time and be cautious not to damage the trim panel as you remove it.
Step 6: Locate and Pull the Emergency Trunk Release Cable
1. With the trunk trim panel removed, locate the emergency trunk release cable.
2. The cable is usually red and will be attached to the trunk latch mechanism.
3. Reach inside the trunk door and pull the emergency release cable to open the trunk.
Step 7: Retrieve Your Belongings or Jump-Start the Vehicle
1. Once the trunk is open, you can retrieve your belongings or access the battery to jump-start the vehicle.
2. If you have a portable jump starter or jumper cables, connect them to a power source according to the manufacturer’s instructions and then connect them to the battery terminals.
3. If necessary, refer to your Subaru Outback owner’s manual for specific instructions on jump-starting the vehicle’s battery.
Opening the trunk of a Subaru Outback with a dead battery can be a challenge, but by following this step-by-step guide, you can successfully access your trunk and retrieve your belongings or jump-start your vehicle. Remember to gather the necessary tools and materials before starting the process and exercise caution to prevent any accidental damage. If you encounter any difficulties or have concerns about your vehicle’s specific model, it’s always advisable to consult the owner’s manual or seek professional assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I open the trunk of my Subaru Outback with a dead battery?
To open the trunk of your Subaru Outback when the battery is dead, you have a few options:
1. Is there a manual trunk release button inside the car?
Yes, most Subaru Outback models have a manual trunk release button located inside the car. The button is usually located near the driver’s side floor or in the glove compartment. Check your owner’s manual for the exact location of the trunk release button in your specific model.
2. Can I use the key to manually unlock and open the trunk?
Yes, your Subaru Outback should come with a physical key that can be used to manually unlock and open the trunk. Look for a key slot near the trunk handle or logo on the back of the vehicle. Insert the key and turn it to unlock the trunk. Once unlocked, you should be able to lift the trunk open.
3. Is there an emergency trunk release cable in the backseat area?
No, Subaru Outback models do not typically have an emergency trunk release cable in the backseat area. The trunk release button or the physical key are the primary methods to open the trunk from inside the vehicle.
4. Can I jump-start my Subaru Outback to access the trunk?
Yes, if you have access to jumper cables and another functioning vehicle, you can jump-start your Subaru Outback to provide power to the trunk release mechanism. Once the vehicle has been jump-started, you should be able to use the trunk release button or the key to open the trunk.
5. Can I call a professional locksmith to open the trunk?
Yes, if you are unable to open the trunk of your Subaru Outback with a dead battery using the methods mentioned above, calling a professional locksmith is a viable option. They have the necessary tools and expertise to safely open the trunk without causing any damage to your vehicle.
Final Thoughts
If you find yourself with a dead battery on your Subaru Outback and are unable to open the trunk, there is a simple solution. Start by locating the manual trunk release inside the vehicle. It is usually located on the driver’s side, near the floor. Pull the release lever to unlock the trunk and gain access to the battery. This manual release allows you to open the trunk even if the vehicle’s battery is completely dead. By following these steps, you can easily open the Subaru Outback trunk with a dead battery.