Trunk release button on ŠKODA Octavia A7: where to look and how to use

Owners ŠKODA Octavia A7 (2013–2020) are often faced with the question: where is the trunk release button and how to use it correctly? Unlike previous generations, in Octavia A7 The trunk opening system has undergone changes - the manufacturer has revised the ergonomics and added new functions. For example, in top trim levels there appeared keyless entry with the ability to open the trunk by moving your foot under the bumper.

In this article we will look at all the ways to open the trunk, including mechanical button in the cabin, button on the key, and also consider typical malfunctions - from a jammed lock to electronic failures. We will pay special attention hidden function of emergency trunk opening from the inside, which not all owners know about.

Where is the trunk release button in the cabin? Octavia A7

B ŠKODA Octavia A7 The trunk release button is located on left side of the instrument panel, next to the steering wheel. It has a characteristic trunk pictogram with an open lid and is illuminated at night. Depending on the configuration, the button may be:

• 🔘 Mechanical — requires physical pressing (basic versions).
• 🔘 Touch — triggered by a light touch (equipped with Style, RS).
• 🔘 Backlit - in models with Ambient Lighting.

In some modifications (for example, Octavia A7 FL facelift 2017) button moved to center console under climate control. In order not to confuse it with other keys, pay attention to the icon - it is always standardized.

If the button does not respond to pressing, check:

1. Is it connected? battery (when discharged, the electronics turn off).
2. Is it not activated? Central lock in blocking mode.
3. Fuse serviceability F37 (10A) per block SCB (under the steering wheel).

Ways to open the trunk Octavia A7: complete guide

trunk ŠKODA Octavia A7 can be opened in several ways. Let's consider each of them with nuances.

1. Button in the cabin

The most obvious method is to press a button on the instrument panel. In most cases the trunk will open immediately, but if the lid frozen in winter or the mechanism is jammed, additional force will be required. In this case:

• 🔹 Try pressing the button twice at intervals of 1 second.
• 🔹 If the trunk is slightly opened, but does not lock, push the lid with your hand.

2. Button on the key

Available with keyless access (for example, Comfort or Elegance) there is a separate button on the key fob for the trunk. It is indicated by the same icon. Important: If the machine is parked on a slope, the lid may open too quickly - hold it with your hand.

3. Contactless opening (function Foot Motion)

In top versions Octavia A7 (2016+) option available Foot Motion — The trunk opens by moving your foot under the rear bumper. To activate:

1. Approach the car with the key in your pocket (range of action - up to 1.5 m).
2. Hold your foot under the bumper for 1-2 seconds.
3. Wait for the beep and click of the lock.

If the function does not work, check the settings in the menu MAXIDOT → Comfort → Contactless trunk opening.

4. Emergency opening from inside

Few people know, but Octavia A7 provided emergency rope to open the trunk from the passenger compartment. It is located under the rear parcel shelf, on the right. To get to it:

Fold the rear seat (lever to the right of the backrest)|

Bend down the trunk trim at the right wing|

Pull the red cable down|

Lift the trunk lid by hand-->

This method is useful if the battery is dead or the electric drive of the lock is faulty.

Why the trunk does not open: fault diagnosis

If the trunk Octavia A7 stopped opening, the reasons can be either mechanical or electrical. Let's look at the main ones:

Symptom	Possible reason	Solution
The button in the cabin does not respond	Fuse blown F37 or the unit is faulty BCM	Check the fuse, replace the unit if necessary (diagnostics VCDS)
The trunk can only be opened with the key	The microswitch in the interior button is faulty	Replace the button (part no. 5E0 959 863)
The lid opens jerkily or does not lock	Worn gas stops or hinges	Replace the stops (original 1K6 827 551/552)
Function Foot Motion doesn't work	Disabled in the settings or the sensor under the bumper is faulty	Check the settings in MAXIDOT, clean the sensor from dirt

If the problem is electric lock, try resetting errors using a diagnostic scanner. Rebooting the unit often helps BCM (disconnect the battery for 10 minutes).

What to do if the trunk opens but does not close?

If the trunk lid Octavia A7 stopped closing, check:

1. **Lock** - debris or ice may have gotten into the mechanism.

2. **Microswitch** in the lock (often oxidizes).

3. **Wiring** from the lock to the block BCM (frayed wires under the casing).

A temporary solution is to close the trunk manually by pressing the lock until it clicks, and immediately go to the service center.

Replacing the trunk release button: step-by-step instructions

If the button in the interior is faulty, you can replace it yourself. For this you will need:

• 🔧 Flathead screwdriver or plastic puller.
• 🔧 New button (part number depends on the configuration, see table below).
• 🔧 Multimeter (for checking contacts).

Procedure:

1. Disable negative battery terminal.
2. Use a screwdriver to pry up the plastic cover around the button (it is held on by latches).
3. Disconnect the power connector from the button.
4. Install the new button and reassemble everything in reverse order.

Equipment	Button code	Button type
Active, Ambition	5E0 959 863 A	Mechanical, without backlight
Style, Elegance	5E0 959 863 B	Touch, backlit
RS, Scout	5E0 959 863 C	Touch, with red backlight

After replacement, check the operation of the button by connecting the battery. If the new button does not work, the problem may be comfort control unit (BCM) - diagnostics will be required.

How to care for the trunk mechanism: preventing breakdowns

To avoid problems with opening the trunk, follow these simple recommendations:

• 🧴 Lubricate every 6 months hinges and lock silicone grease (for example, Liqui Moly Silicon-Fett).
• 🧹 Regularly clean the drainage holes at the bottom of the trunk from dirt.
• ❄️ In winter, before opening the trunk, check that the lid is not frozen (if necessary, use a lock defroster).
• 🔋 Monitor the battery charge - when the voltage is lower 11.8V electronics may turn off.

Pay special attention gas stops. If they start to sag, replace them with a pair - even if one stop still works. An unbalanced load leads to deformation of the hinges.

Modernization: installation of an electric trunk drive

Owners Octavia A7 in basic configurations they often complain about the lack of an electric trunk drive. You can install it yourself or through a service. For this you will need:

• 🔧 Electric drive kit (item no. 5E6 827 501 for liftback, 5E6 827 502 for station wagon).
• 🔧 Control unit BCM with feature support (firmware may be required).
• 🔧 Wiring and connectors (included).

The cost of the kit is from 15,000 rubles, work in the service is about 5,000 rubles. After installation you need activate function via diagnostic scanner (unit coding BCM).

Advantages of electric drive:

• ✅ Smooth opening/closing without effort.
• ✅ Possibility to adjust the opening height.
• ✅ Compatible with function Foot Motion.

Which Octavia A7 trim levels have an electric trunk by default?

The electric trunk drive was installed as standard in the following configurations:

- Style (2015+ years),

- Elegance,

- RS,

- Scout (for station wagon).

In basic versions (Active, Ambition) the drive is missing, but it can be retrofitted.

Frequently asked questions about the trunk ŠKODA Octavia A7

Is it possible to open the trunk if the battery is dead?

Yes, there are two ways:

1. Use emergency rope under the rear parcel shelf (see section above).
2. Recharge the battery from an external source (even 10–15 minutes is enough for the electronics to operate).

If the cable breaks, you will have to remove the trunk trim from the interior side.

Why does the trunk open by itself?

This is a typical problem with:

• Malfunctions microswitch in the lock (closes the contacts).
• Block failure BCM (reflashing required).
• Moisture gets into the button connector (often after washing).

Solution: Turn off the fuse F37 and contact service.

How to turn off the beep when opening the trunk?

The sound can be turned off through the menu MAXIDOT:

1. Press and hold the button OK on the steering wheel.
2. Select Settings → Sounds → Trunk alarm.
3. Set value Off.

In some firmware this option is hidden - you will need to activate it via VCDS.

What oil should I use to lubricate the trunk hinges?

Recommended use:

• Silicone grease (for example, Liqui Moly Silicon-Fett) - does not attract dust.
• Graphite grease for the lock (item G 052 150 A2).

Do not use WD-40 or other liquid lubricants - they are washed out and do not protect against corrosion.

Is it possible to install an electric trunk from an Octavia A8 on an A7?

Technically possible, but some improvements will be required:

• Replacement of hinges and gas stops (they differ in fastenings).
• Block firmware BCM for a new drive.
• Replacement of wiring (connectors may not match).

The cost of remodeling often exceeds the benefit - it’s easier to buy an original kit for A7.

If you encounter a problem not described in this article, check ŠKODA service bulletins for your year of manufacture. For example, in Octavia A7 In 2014-2015, there was a common problem with oxidation of contacts in the trunk lock connector - it was fixed under warranty.

To diagnose complex faults, we recommend using a scanner VCDS or its analogues (OBDeleven, Carista). They allow you to check the status of the block BCM, reset errors and activate hidden functions (for example, automatic trunk closing).