Ok. Picked up a used 2004 this past week and for the most part, it seems OK, though I noticed it doing something rather odd today.

When I turn the ignition switch off (engine isn't running, just powering the electrics), the trunk opens.

I'm assuming there a short somewhere, but since I'm a complete novice (especially when it comes to electrics), I'm not sure where to start. Any suggestions?

 

does it still have the key separate from the fob or do you have a switchblade type?

 

Can't lie this made me laugh

Easiest way to trouble shoot would be to disconnect the trunk button and see if the problem persists. If so then find the trunk wire located in the doorsill and cut it ( You can always re-solder it.

If the trunk still opens up until you cut the wire then its PCM related. In which case I would just enable the valet trunk mode in the glove box and be done with it unfortunately.

 

Switchblade.

I'm going to try it again tonight to see if the behavior is consistent at all.

 

I'm just worried that this could be a harbinger of other electrical issues. After all, the car *IS* 9 years old!

I'll try disconnecting the trunk release button and see what happens. Thanks!

 

so maybe you are hitting the button when you twist the key to off? or does this happen whenever anyone does no mater how they hold it when they turn it?

tl:dr - you're holding it wrong?

 

I think it is a special feature installed for the previous "gangsta" owner .

As he shut off the engine he could then race to the trunk and quickly pull out the sawnoff shotgun all in one smooth motion.

 

Interesting theory! And you know this how??????

 

+1

I do it ALL the time, on every switchblade key Mazda I've owned.

 

That's how it goes over there in the US of A . Everyone knows that !

 

Bingo.................that's how we rednecks roll.

 

while step 1, is to put your shotgun in the trunk, i had a look at the wiring diagram and its actually a really simple circuit.

there is a relay, and the 3 switches, and these are just powered all the time. the switches ground the relay coil, and then it powers the trunk actuator.

since its always powered, but the trunk opens with the ignition, we have to suspect driver error, or aftermarket junk first, next suspect is the relay itself. if this was a German car, this would be the other way around, relay, aftermarket BS and then you...