I did a search before posting this thread and found a number of related threads, but none that had the exact same symptoms. So here's my situation with a few specific questions.

As of yesterday, I am unable to open my trunk using the center compartment button or my factory keyless remote. My key still opens the trunk fine. My car is a '02.

I suppose this is a problem with either the fuse or something (wire or solenoid) in the trunk release mechanism. My questions are as follows:

1) Could a bad fuse cause both the center compartment button and the keyless remote to stop working? My impression is that it would only affect the keyless remote.

2) If it's a mechanical problem rather than a bad fuse, where should I start checking? Would I need to take off/apart the trunk lid or can I leave everything in place?

I should also add that once the problem started happening, there was one single instance where the keyless remote was able to open the trunk. I don't know why, but it worked that one time, and hasn't worked before or since.

Assume that I know nothing about how all of this works. Thanks for any input.

 

I bet its the fuse. happened to me.

 

mine was doing the same thing, fuse blew

 

I vote fuse. Does your remote work to lock and unlock the door? Probably not.
That button gets its power through the remote entry unit. If the fuse for it is blown, no juice will go to the button in the glove box.

 

Oops, forgot this piece of information -- yes, my remote still locks and unlocks the doors. It only stopped working for the trunk. Does that exclude the fuse from being the source of the problem?

 

Ah, vital bit of information. Now, I would suggest that you investigate the possibility that the wiring harness at the trunk release solenoid has come loose or detached. If it's firm, then disconnect it and use a voltage tester to see if you are getting current juice there.

 

Cool, I'll check it out once I figure out which part you're referring to. I should be able to by looking and asking around if needed.

Thanks a lot to everyone who replied, this gives me a starting point to work with.