Hyundai Elantra Owners Manual
Hyundai Elantra: Trunk
Windshield wipers are essential for visibility in bad weather. This section covers the Hyundai Elantra’s front and rear wiper controls, spray functions, and maintenance tips.
Opening the trunk
- Press the trunk unlock button for more than 1 second on the transmitter (or smart key) or,
- Press the button on the trunk handle with the smart key in your possession. or,
- Insert the master key into the lock and turn it clockwise.
- To open the trunk from inside the vehicle, pull the trunk lid release switch. Once the trunk is opened and then closed, the trunk is locked automatically.
✽ NOTICE
In cold and wet climates, trunk locks and trunk mechanisms may not work properly due to freezing conditions.
WARNING
The trunk swings upward. Make sure no objects or people are near the rear of the vehicle when opening the trunk.
CAUTION
Make certain that you close the trunk before driving your vehicle. Possible damage may occur to the trunk lift cylinders and attached hardware if the trunk is not closed prior to driving.
Closing the trunk
To close the trunk, lower the trunk lid, then press down on it until it locks. To be sure the trunk lid is securely fastened, always check by trying to pull it up again.
WARNING
The trunk lid should be always kept completely closed while the vehicle is in motion. If it is left open or ajar, poisonous exhaust gases may enter the vehicle and serious illness or death may result.
Emergency trunk safety release
Your vehicle is equipped with an emergency trunk release cable located inside the trunk. The lever glows in the dark when the trunk lid is closed. If someone is inadvertently locked in the trunk, pulling this handle will release the trunk latch mechanism and open the trunk.
WARNING
- For emergencies, be fully aware of the location of the emergency trunk safety release lever in this vehicle and how to open the trunk if you are accidentally locked in the trunk.
- No one should be allowed to occupy the trunk of the vehicle at any time. If the trunk is partially or totally latched and the person is unable to get out, severe injury or death could occur due to lack of ventilation, exhaust fumes and rapid heat build-up, or because of exposure to cold weather conditions. The trunk is also a highly dangerous location in the event of a crash because it is not a protected occupant space but is a part of the vehicle’s crush zone.
- Your vehicle should be kept locked and keys be kept out of the reach of children. Parents should teach their children about the dangers of playing in trunks.
- Use the release lever for emergencies only. Use with extreme caution, especially while the vehicle is in motion.
The trunk system in the Hyundai Elantra is engineered to provide easy, safe, and secure access to your vehicle’s storage area. From remote key release to interior latch and smart trunk sensors, you have multiple ways to operate it with minimal effort. When your hands are full, proximity sensors can automatically unlock and open the trunk as you approach. This feature is especially helpful during grocery runs or luggage loading in tight spaces. Trunk lighting ensures you can see clearly even in low-light conditions, enhancing both convenience and safety. The system includes anti-pinch technology and emergency release handles for safety in rare entrapment scenarios. Proper usage of trunk closing mechanisms also ensures the lid remains firmly sealed, protecting your belongings from weather or theft. It’s also important to understand trunk load limits and not overfill it, as it affects rear suspension and handling. Maintenance includes occasionally lubricating the latch and checking weather seals for wear. Overall, this part of your Elantra is more than just storage—it's a thoughtfully integrated part of vehicle usability and safety.
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