2008 subaru forester, trunk door problems?

arnabcarnabc Member Posts: 27
edited May 2014 in Subaru
is anyone else experiencing this?

the trunk/hatchback doesn't always shut all the way. we noticed it a couple of times in the summer, but it seems to be a real hassle now in the winter (we're in minnesota). it sort of "bounces" when shut (whether we do it soft or hard) and sometimes it takes more than a couple of tries for it to shut completely.

Comments

  • xwesxxwesx Member Posts: 17,411
    I cannot comment on the '09 Forester specifically, but I have problems with my hatches occasionally in the winter, especially with my '07 Outback, which had an aluminum hatch (very light weight). The colder the temperature, the more trouble with it latching. I think the problem involves the latch lubricant. At cold temperatures, it is more viscous and therefore does not allow the latch to move as quickly. When I try to shut the hatch, it bounces from the latch point faster than the latch grabs it. I find that firmly closing it, while keeping my hand(s) on the hatch with pressure, will get it to grab better. The applied pressure keeps the hatch from bouncing on initial contact, giving the latch time to grab.

    That's my theory, anyway..... :D
    2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I think the position of the plate/latch can be adjusted, I know the older models could, so probably the 2009 as well.
  • gherman131313gherman131313 Member Posts: 17
    I've had problems with both the hood and rear hatchback latches. It's unsettling to see your hood slightly raised when going 65 mph!

    I manually move the latch into the correct position, it usually latches properly then.
  • yappa61yappa61 Member Posts: 2
    Hi
    have the same problem, dealer tells me its the air pressure with all the doors and windows closed. Apparently they recommend opening a door prior to closing the tailgate....
  • yappa61yappa61 Member Posts: 2
    Ignore that last post, answered the wrong question.
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