Trunk Release doesn't work (1990 Cutlass)

[humandoing]

I know this is probably pretty vague, but the trunk release inside the glove box in my recently purchased 1990 Cutlass Ciera isn't working. I can push that thing as hard as I want, but trunky no open...

Does anyone know if there are any common things to check for as to why it's borked? Fuse? Some loose wiring? etc.?

I'm no auto mechanic, just a tinkerer... Any info would be great.

Thanks!
-daniel

[kingalbrect79]

first..check the fuses..there is usually one fusebox in the car..and sometimes a second under the hood..general locations for buick/olds of those years are behind the glovebox, drivers kick-panel, and near the firewall under the hood. If fuses look good, they still may be blown..use a volt/ohm meter to test both sides of the fuses while still in the car, and ignition on. Don't use a test light..alot of new cars can accidently set off airbags if the wrong wire is poked w/ a test light. If fuses are all good, then check to see if there is power to the wire coming from the harness to the back of the fuse..the switch is easily removed.. if there is no power, then there may be a break in the harness, if it is powered, push the button and see if there is a continuation of power to the other terminal on the switch. If not, then switch is bad. You can also try hooking a 9v battery to the switch wire to the trunk to see if it pops open. *Caution*-Some new vehicles use a negative trigger instead of power to open the trunk,,meaning the switch has voltage, and needs to see a ground to open the trunk..(so wait to use the battery till after you find this out)--if this is the case, the switch may be bad, or terminals corroded..(it happens). I'm an auto electrician and audio/navigation tech...so holler if you need more help..i hope i was thorough enough for you..