Solving Trunk Latch Problems on the 2006-2018 Dodge Charger
If your Charger's trunk won't pop open, the trunk lock actuator is the most likely culprit.
- The most common cause of a Dodge Charger trunk not opening electronically is a failed trunk lock actuator.
- Before replacing the actuator, always check for broken wires in the trunk lid harness and check the relevant fuse.
- Replacement is a simple DIY job that takes less than 30 minutes with basic tools.
- Aftermarket actuators are a cost-effective and reliable alternative to more expensive OEM parts.
Is Your Dodge Charger's Trunk Stuck?
A common issue for Dodge Charger owners from 2006 to 2018 is a trunk that suddenly refuses to open with the remote or the button inside the car. While you can still get it open by climbing through the back seat and pulling the emergency release handle, it's a major inconvenience. Most of the time, this problem points directly to a failed trunk lock actuator.
First, Check the Obvious
Before you buy a new part, check two other common culprits. First, inspect the wiring harness that runs from the car's body to the trunk lid, usually inside a black rubber sleeve. The wires inside can break from repeated opening and closing, which is a very common issue on these cars. Second, check the fuse for the trunk release system, which is typically located in the fuse box in the trunk.
Symptoms of a Failing Trunk Lock Actuator
A bad trunk lock actuator will make itself known in a few ways. You'll notice that the problem is only with the electronic release, while the manual key lock (if your model has one) still works fine. Here are the most common signs:
- No Response: The trunk release button on your key fob and the button inside the car do nothing.
- Clicking, No Action: You hear a clicking or weak buzzing sound from the trunk area when you press the button, but the latch doesn't release.
- Works Intermittently: The actuator may work sometimes and fail at other times before failing completely.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Actuator
When replacing the trunk lock actuator on your Charger, you have two main choices: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) from Mopar or an aftermarket part. For a simple component like this, a quality aftermarket part is often a smart choice. Aftermarket actuators are designed to match the fit and function of the original part and are a direct replacement, plugging into the factory wiring harness. Given that the original part failed, an aftermarket replacement offers comparable, if not better, reliability at a much lower cost.
Estimated Replacement Costs
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) | $90 - $110 |
| New Aftermarket | $30 - $60 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a difficult repair I can do myself?
No, this is a very straightforward and common DIY repair. It typically requires only a 10mm socket and a flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool. The job involves removing a few plastic clips from the trunk lid liner, unplugging one electrical connector, and undoing two bolts. Most people can complete the replacement in under 30 minutes.
🎬 See this step-by-step walkthrough for replacing the trunk latch.Are there any recalls for the Dodge Charger trunk actuator?
No, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Dodge for the trunk lock actuator on the 2006-2018 Charger. The issue is considered a standard wear-and-tear failure. Recalls you may find online are often for different vehicles or different problems on the Charger.
How do I get my trunk open to replace the part?
You will need to access the emergency trunk release from inside the car. Fold down the rear seats and crawl into the trunk. You will see a glow-in-the-dark handle attached to the latch mechanism; pull it to open the trunk lid.
🎬 Watch: How to use the emergency release and fix the latch.What if I replace the actuator and it still doesn't work?
If a new actuator doesn't solve the problem, the issue is almost certainly a broken wire in the harness between the trunk lid and the car body. Carefully pull back the rubber sleeve and inspect the wires for breaks or damage. 🎬 Watch: How to find and repair broken trunk wiring. Repairing the broken wire should restore function.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5056244AA 5056244AB 5056244AC 5056244AD
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Dodge Charger: