If you drive a 2015 Jeep Cherokee, you may find yourself needing to open the trunk for groceries, luggage, or just routine cleaning. While it sounds simple, many owners discover there are several methods—some obvious, some less so. This guide will show you all the ways to open your Jeep Cherokee’s trunk, explain common issues, and share practical tips to keep things working smoothly.
Ways To Open The Trunk On A 2015 Jeep Cherokee
Jeep equipped the 2015 Cherokee with different trim levels and trunk systems. The main types are the manual liftgate and the power liftgate (automatic trunk). Knowing which one you have is important, as the steps can be slightly different.
1. Using The Key Fob
The easiest way for most people is with the key fob:
- Stand near the back of your Cherokee.
- Press the trunk button (often marked with an open trunk icon) twice quickly.
- For power liftgate models, the trunk will unlock and open automatically.
- For manual models, the trunk unlocks but you must lift it by hand.
Pro tip: If your key fob is not working, check the battery. Many trunk problems are caused by weak or dead fob batteries.
There is a trunk release button located inside the Jeep, usually to the left of the steering wheel:
- Sit in the driver’s seat.
- Look for a button with a trunk or liftgate symbol.
- Press it once. For power liftgates, the trunk opens automatically.
- For manual liftgates, you may hear a click, then go to the back and lift by hand.
3. Exterior Trunk Handle
If you do not have the key fob or are outside the vehicle, you can use the exterior handle:
- Unlock the vehicle (with fob or key).
- Go to the center of the liftgate, just above the license plate.
- Find the small rubberized button or handle.
- Press or pull the handle. The trunk unlocks and releases. For power liftgates, it may rise automatically.
Note: The trunk handle will not work if the doors are locked.
4. Emergency Release (inside Trunk)
If you are inside the trunk or the trunk won’t open from outside, use the emergency release:
- Locate the emergency trunk release handle (bright color, usually yellow or glow-in-the-dark).
- Pull the handle. The trunk will release, even if the car is locked.
This is a safety feature, especially useful if someone is accidentally locked inside.
Common Problems And Solutions
Even with good design, problems can happen. Here’s a look at the most common trunk issues and how to solve them.
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Trunk won’t open with fob | Dead fob battery | Replace battery, try again |
| Trunk stuck closed | Faulty latch or actuator | Try manual release, visit mechanic |
| Power liftgate won’t open fully | Obstruction or weak struts | Clear path, check/replace struts |
Non-obvious insight: Many owners overlook the trunk fuse. A blown fuse can stop the power liftgate from working even if the button and fob seem fine. Check your Jeep’s fuse box for any trunk-related fuses.
Manual Vs. Power Liftgate: What’s The Difference?
Some 2015 Jeep Cherokees have a manual liftgate (you lift and lower by hand), while higher trims have a power liftgate (opens and closes automatically).
Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Manual Liftgate | Power Liftgate |
|---|---|---|
| Opening method | By hand | Button or fob |
| Automatic closing | No | Yes |
| Common issues | Stuck latch | Electrical faults |
Experience-based tip: If you upgrade from a manual to a power liftgate, you may need to add new wiring and controls. Not every Cherokee can be upgraded easily.
Practical Tips For Using And Maintaining Your Trunk
To keep your trunk working smoothly, follow these tips:
- Keep the latch clean. Dust and debris can block the mechanism.
- Lubricate the hinges once or twice a year.
- Check the weatherstripping for cracks to avoid water leaks.
- Don’t overload the trunk. Heavy loads can damage the struts or cause the power liftgate motor to fail.
- Listen for odd noises when opening or closing. Clicking, grinding, or slow movement can warn you of problems.
If you need more details about your model, check the official Jeep manual or visit the Jeep Owner’s Site.
What To Do If The Trunk Still Won’t Open
Sometimes, even after trying every method, the trunk remains stuck. Here’s what you can do:
- Try all unlock methods: Key fob, inside button, and exterior handle.
- Check the fuse box: Look for a blown trunk or liftgate fuse.
- Listen for sounds: If you hear the latch clicking but nothing happens, the latch may be jammed.
- Use emergency release: Enter through the back seat, fold it down, and use the emergency handle.
- Visit a mechanic: If none of these work, you may have a broken latch or electrical problem.
Non-obvious insight: Cold weather can sometimes freeze the trunk shut. Pouring warm (not hot) water around the trunk seal can help thaw the ice. Avoid using sharp tools, which can damage the paint or rubber.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If My Jeep Cherokee Has A Power Liftgate?
Look for a button with a trunk icon on your key fob or inside the vehicle. If pressing it opens the trunk automatically, you have a power liftgate. Also, higher trims like Limited or Trailhawk are more likely to have this feature.
Can I Open My Trunk If The Car Battery Is Dead?
If your battery is dead, the electronic buttons and fob won’t work. You can still open the trunk using the manual exterior handle (if it is unlocked) or the emergency release from inside.
Why Does My Trunk Beep But Not Open?
A beeping sound means something is stopping the trunk from opening. Check for obstructions, make sure the car is in Park, and that all doors are unlocked. Also, power liftgates will not operate if the battery is very low.
How Do I Fix A Trunk That Closes Halfway And Then Reopens?
This usually means the liftgate struts are weak or there’s an obstruction. Remove any objects, and check the struts for damage or wear. Replace them if needed.
Is It Safe To Drive With The Trunk Open?
It is not recommended to drive with the trunk open. It can let in exhaust fumes and may damage the liftgate or struts. If you must carry something large, secure the trunk and use a red flag to warn other drivers.
Opening the trunk of your 2015 Jeep Cherokee should be simple once you know the methods and understand the common issues. With the right approach, you’ll avoid frustration and keep your Jeep’s trunk working well for years.
