Hatch Won't Open

[subarutoyou]

I have a 2017 Outback, and today the rear hatch door decided it wouldn't open. It is a non-powered version. I can't find anything online that helps get it open, and only want to take it to the dealership as a last resort. Anybody have any ideas? Thanks in advance!

 

[Dick Foster]

I assume that you've already double checked that it's not locked.

 

[subarutoyou]

Yes, and it wasn't locked. I randomly tried opening it a couple hours after my first post, and it worked. Go figure...

 

[bmart]

Maybe it is us.

 

[subarutoyou]

I did notice the car quiver in fear when i said something about seeking a fix on SubaruForums. So maybe you're right!!!

 

[bmart]

We are mostly bad and mean people...or maybe just me.

 

[subarutoyou]

Well, the problem is back. Guess I'll replace the latch mechanism.

 

[Maquis]

This happens periodically on my 2014 Impreza Hatchback. Mine is also non-powered. I have cleaned it with canned air, and lubed it with some WD40. That helped, but it periodically still sticks. I'm living with it for now; I may ask my mechanic what they think next time I get an oil change. I think it's the button on the outside of the hatch that is going bad, not the latch itself. We'll see.

 

[bmart]

Are they cable operated? Will it not open remote, from the fob, or directly from a handle on the rear door? (Not familiar with this model.)

 

[Maquis]

Mine is manually opened, i.e. by pressing the tiny button under the rear window with my finger. Will not open any other way to my knowledge.

 

[subarutoyou]

This happens periodically on my 2014 Impreza Hatchback. Mine is also non-powered. I have cleaned it with canned air, and lubed it with some WD40. That helped, but it periodically still sticks. I'm living with it for now; I may ask my mechanic what they think next time I get an oil change. I think it's the button on the outside of the hatch that is going bad, not the latch itself. We'll see.

I didn't think about the button being the issue. I'll check that out too...thanks.

 

[subarutoyou]

Are they cable operated? Will it not open remote, from the fob, or directly from a handle on the rear door? (Not familiar with this model.)

Nope, no way to open it with the remote, fob, or the handle.