How to Open a Subaru Forester Trunk from Inside

Opening a Subaru Forester trunk from inside is simple once you know the right method. Whether you’re dealing with a power outage, dead battery, or just need emergency access, this guide covers every model year and scenario with clear, practical steps.

If you’ve ever found yourself stuck inside a Subaru Forester with no way out—or worse, accidentally locked someone in the trunk—you know how stressful it can be. Whether you’re loading groceries in a hurry, dealing with a dead battery, or simply curious about your vehicle’s safety features, knowing how to open a Subaru Forester trunk from inside is a valuable skill. The good news? It’s easier than you might think, and Subaru has designed their vehicles with both convenience and safety in mind.

The Subaru Forester is one of the most reliable and family-friendly SUVs on the market, known for its rugged build, all-wheel drive capability, and thoughtful interior design. But like any vehicle, it has quirks—especially when it comes to accessing the trunk from the inside. Unlike sedans with fold-down rear seats or hatchbacks with large rear openings, the Forester’s trunk access requires a bit more know-how, particularly if you’re relying on electronic systems that may fail during power outages or emergencies.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every method to open a Subaru Forester trunk from inside, covering all model years from the early 2000s to the latest 2024 trims. We’ll explain the differences between manual and electronic releases, how to use the emergency trunk release, and what to do if your key fob or battery fails. You’ll also learn essential safety tips, maintenance advice, and troubleshooting steps to keep your Forester functioning smoothly. By the end, you’ll feel confident handling any trunk-related situation—no matter where you are or what the circumstances are.

Key Takeaways

• Use the interior trunk release lever: Located on the driver’s side floor near the door, this manual lever allows you to open the trunk from inside the cabin.
• Check your model year: Older Forester models (pre-2014) may have a physical pull cord, while newer ones use an electronic release button or lever.
• Emergency release inside the trunk: If someone is accidentally locked inside, pull the glow-in-the-dark emergency release handle mounted on the trunk lid.
• Battery or power issues require manual override: If the electronic trunk release fails, use the key fob or physical key in the trunk lock cylinder.
• Child safety locks affect rear access: Ensure rear door child locks are off if trying to access the trunk through the rear seats.
• Regular maintenance prevents malfunctions: Keep the trunk latch, seals, and release mechanisms clean and lubricated to ensure smooth operation.
• Know your key fob functions: Some Forester trims allow trunk opening via the fob—press and hold the trunk button for 2–3 seconds.

Understanding Your Subaru Forester’s Trunk System

Before diving into the how-to steps, it’s important to understand how the Subaru Forester’s trunk system works. The Forester, being a compact SUV, features a rear liftgate that opens upward, providing access to the cargo area. Unlike sedans with traditional trunks, the Forester’s rear opening is more like a hatchback, but it still has a locking mechanism that can be controlled electronically or manually.

Over the years, Subaru has evolved the trunk release system to match advancements in automotive technology. Older models (typically 2008–2013) often relied on a simple mechanical pull cord or lever inside the cabin, while newer models (2014 and later) incorporate electronic controls via the key fob, dashboard button, or interior release lever. Some high-end trims even offer hands-free power liftgate functionality, activated by waving your foot under the rear bumper.

One key feature across all Forester models is the inclusion of an emergency trunk release inside the cargo area. This is a critical safety mechanism required by U.S. federal law for all vehicles manufactured after 2001. It ensures that if someone is accidentally locked inside the trunk—whether a child, pet, or adult—they can escape without outside help. This release is typically a glow-in-the-dark handle or lever mounted on the inside of the trunk lid.

Understanding these systems helps you choose the right method based on your model year, trim level, and current situation. For example, if your battery is dead, you won’t be able to use the electronic release, so knowing the manual override is essential. Similarly, if you’re traveling with kids or pets, familiarizing yourself with the emergency release could be a lifesaver.

Method 1: Using the Interior Trunk Release Lever

The most common and reliable way to open a Subaru Forester trunk from inside is by using the interior trunk release lever. This feature is standard on most Forester models from 2014 onward, including the 2024 Forester Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trims.

Locating the Release Lever

The interior trunk release lever is typically located on the driver’s side of the vehicle, near the floor panel just behind the front seat. It’s a small, black or gray plastic lever, often marked with a trunk icon or the word “TRUNK.” On some models, it may be tucked slightly under the edge of the carpet or behind a small access panel, so you might need to feel around gently.

To access it, slide into the driver’s seat and look down along the side of the center console. You’ll usually find the lever within arm’s reach, positioned so it’s easy to pull even in low-light conditions. On higher trims with power seats, make sure the seat is adjusted forward enough to give you clear access.

How to Operate the Lever

Once you’ve located the lever, simply pull it upward or outward (depending on the model) with a firm, steady motion. You should hear a distinct *click* as the trunk latch disengages. The liftgate will then pop open slightly, allowing you to lift it manually.

It’s important to note that this lever only works when the vehicle is unlocked. If the doors are locked—either manually or via the key fob—the trunk release may be disabled as a security feature. So, if pulling the lever doesn’t work, check that the vehicle is in the unlocked state. You can usually unlock it by pressing the unlock button on the key fob or using the power door lock switch on the driver’s door panel.

Tips for Success

– If the lever feels stiff or unresponsive, don’t force it. Check for obstructions or debris around the mechanism.
– In cold weather, the latch may freeze. Gently warm the area with a hairdryer or use a de-icer spray if needed.
– Always ensure the vehicle is parked on level ground before opening the trunk to prevent the liftgate from swinging open unexpectedly.

This method is ideal for everyday use and is the go-to solution for most drivers. It’s simple, reliable, and doesn’t require any tools or special knowledge.

Method 2: Emergency Trunk Release (Inside the Trunk)

Now, let’s talk about the most important method—especially in emergency situations: the emergency trunk release. This feature is designed for scenarios where someone is accidentally locked inside the trunk, such as a child playing hide-and-seek or a pet that wandered in during loading.

Finding the Emergency Handle

Inside the trunk of every Subaru Forester (2001 and newer), you’ll find a glow-in-the-dark emergency release handle. It’s usually mounted on the interior side of the trunk lid, near the latch mechanism. The handle is often bright yellow, green, or orange and is labeled with text like “PULL TO OPEN” or “EMERGENCY RELEASE.”

Because it glows in the dark, you can locate it even in complete darkness. This is a critical safety feature, especially if the vehicle is parked in a dimly lit garage or during a nighttime emergency.

How to Use It

If you or someone else is inside the trunk, simply reach up and pull the handle firmly. It will release the latch, allowing the trunk to open from the inside. No tools or keys are needed—just a steady pull.

It’s worth noting that this handle only works if the trunk is not locked with the physical key. If the trunk has been manually locked using the key cylinder (more on that below), the emergency release may not function. However, under normal circumstances, it should work regardless of the vehicle’s power status.

Why This Matters

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), hundreds of children are accidentally locked in car trunks each year. Many of these incidents occur during summer months when temperatures inside a closed trunk can rise to deadly levels within minutes. The emergency release is a life-saving feature that gives trapped individuals a way out.

Subaru has consistently included this feature across all Forester models, and it’s one of the reasons the brand is praised for its commitment to safety. If you have young children or pets, take a moment to show them where the handle is and explain how it works—just in case.

Method 3: Using the Key Fob or Physical Key

Sometimes, the interior release lever or emergency handle isn’t accessible—perhaps you’re outside the vehicle, or the cabin is locked. In these cases, your key fob or physical key becomes your best friend.

Key Fob Trunk Release

Most modern Subaru Foresters come with a key fob that includes a dedicated trunk button. This button is usually marked with a trunk or liftgate icon and is located on the side or back of the fob.

To open the trunk using the fob:
1. Stand within range of the vehicle (usually within 5–10 feet).
2. Press and hold the trunk button for 2–3 seconds.
3. The liftgate will unlock and pop open automatically.

Some higher trims, like the Forester Touring, feature a hands-free power liftgate. In this case, you can activate the trunk by waving your foot under the rear bumper (near the license plate) while holding the key fob. This is especially useful when your hands are full of groceries or luggage.

Using the Physical Key

If your key fob battery is dead or you don’t have the fob with you, you can still open the trunk using the physical key. Every Forester has a key cylinder located on the trunk lid, usually near the Subaru emblem or license plate light.

To use it:
1. Insert the key into the cylinder and turn it clockwise (or counterclockwise, depending on the model).
2. This will manually unlock the trunk, allowing you to lift the liftgate.

Note: This method only unlocks the trunk—it won’t open it automatically. You’ll still need to lift the gate by hand.

When This Method Is Most Useful

– During a power outage or dead battery.
– If the interior release lever is broken or inaccessible.
– When the vehicle is locked and you’re outside.

Always keep a spare key in a safe place, such as a magnetic key holder under the bumper or with a trusted family member. This ensures you’re never completely locked out.

Method 4: Accessing the Trunk Through the Rear Seats

Another way to reach the trunk from inside the cabin is by folding down the rear seats. This method is particularly useful if the trunk release lever is malfunctioning or if you need to retrieve an item without exiting the vehicle.

Folding Down the Rear Seats

The Subaru Forester features a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, allowing you to fold down either side or both. To access the trunk:
1. Pull the release lever located on the side of the rear seat cushion (near the door).
2. Fold the seatback forward until it lies flat.
3. You’ll now have a clear opening into the cargo area.

Once the seats are down, you can crawl into the trunk (if needed) or reach in to grab items. This is especially helpful during road trips or when loading large objects.

Important Considerations

– Ensure the vehicle is parked and the parking brake is engaged before folding the seats.
– Remove any loose items from the cargo area to prevent them from shifting.
– Be cautious when crawling into the trunk—wear appropriate clothing and watch for sharp edges.

This method won’t “open” the trunk in the traditional sense, but it does provide interior access, which can be a lifesaver in tight situations.

Troubleshooting Common Trunk Issues

Even with multiple access methods, you might encounter problems when trying to open your Forester’s trunk. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.

Trunk Won’t Open with the Lever or Fob

If the interior lever or key fob doesn’t work, check the following:
– Is the vehicle unlocked? The trunk release is often disabled when the car is locked.
– Is the battery dead? A weak or dead battery can prevent electronic systems from functioning.
– Is the fuse blown? Check the fuse box (usually under the dashboard or in the engine bay) for a blown fuse labeled “Trunk” or “Liftgate.”

Frozen or Stuck Latch

In cold climates, the trunk latch can freeze shut. To fix this:
– Use a hairdryer to gently warm the latch area.
– Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the mechanism.
– Avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the latch.

Power Liftgate Malfunction

If your Forester has a power liftgate and it’s not responding:
– Check the power liftgate switch on the driver’s door panel.
– Ensure the vehicle is in Park and the brake is applied.
– Reset the system by turning the ignition off and on.

Emergency Handle Not Working

If the emergency release doesn’t open the trunk:
– Make sure the trunk isn’t manually locked with the key.
– Check that the handle isn’t broken or disconnected.
– If the handle is damaged, contact a Subaru dealer for replacement.

Regular maintenance can prevent many of these issues. Keep the latch clean, lubricate moving parts annually, and test the emergency release periodically.

Safety Tips and Best Practices

Knowing how to open a Subaru Forester trunk from inside is about more than convenience—it’s about safety. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

– **Never leave children or pets unattended in the vehicle**, even for a few minutes.
– **Teach children about the emergency release** and explain that the trunk is not a play area.
– **Test the emergency handle** at least once a year to ensure it’s working.
– **Keep the key fob battery fresh** to avoid being locked out.
– **Park in well-lit areas** when possible, especially at night.
– **Use the manual key as a backup** and store it in a secure, accessible location.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe and prepared in any situation.

Conclusion

Opening a Subaru Forester trunk from inside is a straightforward process once you understand the available methods. Whether you’re using the interior release lever, the emergency handle, the key fob, or the physical key, Subaru has equipped the Forester with multiple ways to access the cargo area safely and efficiently.

From everyday convenience to emergency preparedness, knowing these techniques can save you time, stress, and even lives. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with your specific model’s features, and don’t hesitate to consult your owner’s manual for detailed instructions.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to open the trunk—it’s to do so confidently, safely, and without panic. With the knowledge from this guide, you’re now equipped to handle any trunk-related situation in your Subaru Forester.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you open a Subaru Forester trunk from the inside without power?

Yes, you can open the trunk from inside using the manual interior release lever or the emergency handle. These methods work even if the battery is dead or the vehicle has no power.

Where is the trunk release lever located in a Subaru Forester?

The interior trunk release lever is typically found on the driver’s side floor, near the door and behind the front seat. It’s a small plastic lever marked with a trunk icon.

What do I do if the emergency trunk release doesn’t work?

First, ensure the trunk isn’t manually locked with the key. If the handle is broken or disconnected, contact a Subaru dealer for repair or replacement.

Can I open the trunk with the key fob if the battery is dead?

No, the key fob requires battery power to send signals. Use the physical key in the trunk lock cylinder as a backup.

Is there a way to open the trunk if the rear seats are folded down?

Yes, folding down the rear seats provides access to the cargo area from inside the cabin, allowing you to reach items or enter the trunk space.

Do all Subaru Forester models have an emergency trunk release?

Yes, all Subaru Foresters manufactured after 2001 include a glow-in-the-dark emergency release handle inside the trunk for safety compliance.