2002 Kia Spectra GSX hatchback.  There are 2 levers on the drivers seat
floor, one to release gas cap door, one to release trunk.  The trunk
release has never worked quite right.  You can hear the trunk latch
'POP', but it doesn't release completely, similar to a hood release.
Still have to put a key in the trunk, turn the key, and then open the
trunk.  Really inconvenient.  The manual doesn't mention this, so I took
it in for warranty service.

Here is what the Tech wrote on the service log:

"This vehicle is not equipped with a remote trunk release switch.  It is
equipped with a trunk release lever next to gas filler release door.
Trunk release DOES open the trunk.  [But] A key is needed to FULLY open
up the trunk to prevent it from flying open when vehicle is moving."

OK.  Then what is the purpose of the lever in the first place?  Didn't
make sense to me.  So when I got home I finally took a good look at it
myself and pulled a little "extra hard" on the lever until I felt a
"CRACK".  Guess what?  Trunk popped right open.  I thought I broke it,
but now it works fine every time.

Go figure.

DB