This 04 XJ8 I just got will only release the first part of the sequence on boot lid open command. I have to use the physical key to fully release it. I took out the actuator and messed around with it; nothing seems to be wrong other than it does not pull far enough or long enough to completely yank the little pawl. Has anyone else experienced this? I did not disassemble the solenoid but am not afraid of going there if it will fix it. Thank you.

 

Sure your gas struts are OK ? The system relies on the gas struts to open the trunk up when you invoke "open boot" on the remote, or by pressing the button on the lid. I had to replace mine for this very reason.

 

So is the trunk supposed to open all the way when you press the button?

 

No, you must raise the trunk manually once released.

 

RichXK8: When you say lid must be manually raised once released, does that mean you still have to use the key? If your car fully releases but you still have to (only) pull with your hand but not use key, that would suggest struts are not part of the problem. Am I missing something here?

 

If you have to use the key then you may have weak struts. Once released by the remote, trunk button or cockpit release button you should be able to just lift the trunk lid up.

 

Once the trunk latch is released the gas struts should raise it about 1/2" then the owner can lift it up manually all the way. If this doesn't happen, you'll have to use the key as the lid has not risen far enough for the latch to let go. All I can say is that I had a similar problem and new struts cured it. Of course your problem may be different.