2004 Subaru Outback Owner's Manual - Page 136

Keys and doors play with the release handle. If the driver starts the vehicle without knowing that a child is inside the trunk and the child opens the lid using the release handle, the child could fall out and be killed or seriously injured. 1. Open the trunk lid. Do not close the lid while gripping the release handle. The handle may be damaged. Do not use the handle as a hook to fasten straps or ropes to secure your cargo in the trunk. Such use may result in damage of the handle. Load the trunk so that cargo can not strike the release handle. If the cargo hits the handle while the vehicle is being driven, the handle may be pushed down and the trunk lid may open. That may cause cargo to fall out of the trunk, which could create a traffic safety hazard. Inspection Perform the following steps at least twice a year to check the release handle for correct operation. UBS071BA 2. Use a screwdriver with a thin blade. Slide the screwdriver blade from the slit aperture of the lock assembly fully to the end until you hear a click. - CONTINUED - 2-29