1997 XJ6 L Trunk Release
 

'97 XJ6 L. Both the push button on the trunk and the button on the dash used to open trunk. Now both do not work. The idiot light on the dash says the trunk is open - when it is obviously closed. I've changed the fuse in the box next to the battery - nothing. Ideas?

The wiring harness at the right trunk lid hinge flexes every time you open and close the trunk. Cut the tape off the harness and look for broken wires, that's where your problems are...even if the insulation looks intact, the wire strands inside are broken. You'll need to replace about a foot long section of each wire. Do all of them, there are maybe ten which connect the functions you lost, as well as trunk lights and lisence plate lights.

I have a similar problem. The Dash button and Trunk Lid button do not work and I cannot get the key to open it either. I do not have a key fob/remote for the car. The key turns but will not release the latch and the indicator light always says trunk ajar when it is not. I cannot get into my trunk at all and do not want to damage anything. HELP