Hi,

The boot release button on the boot lid of my 2003 XK8 hasn't worked ever since I've had it. The boot releases with the key in the "secret" lock, the dashboard button, and the fob button with no problems. The central locking and fuel filler release are working fine. I understand that the button can beep under certain circumstances when it can't function, and it's not beeping. The car's not in valet mode.

Looking in the handbook, I can't see a specific fuse for this, it just seems to be run by the security module, and everything else door- and security-related is working fine. Would the logical next step be to replace the boot release button? Is there any further testing that I can do? Thanks.

 

The wire could be broken at the hinge.

 

I didn't think of that, I'll have a look at that next. Thanks.

 

The micro switch for the trunk (boot) can cause this. Simple fix.

 

If you remove the inside cover of the trunk lid you'll see a wiring harness that handles the license plate lights, the center brake light, and the trunk release in models so equipped. As previously mentioned, the wires break in the hinge area, despite the plastic strain relief thingy. They're a royal PITA to repair. When I found out my license lights didn't work and that the PO had Mickey Moused a "fix" to keep the brake light working, I pulled the entire harness and got a good used one from Noma.