Trunk door popping noise

I do get a popping noise when opening but it is not loud. I do have to shut it harder than other cars. I usually push down on the license plate because the spoiler feels like it is going to break off.

 

There is some type of mechanical release that makes a noise, like a solenoid of some sort triggering the release of the latch, Danman32 may know exactly how this works but it does make an odd noise. I just don't know if I'd call it 'loud
.

for closing, use the hand hold inside the hatch and if you have to push on the toyota symbol to close. it is a solid surface that will keep you from damaging the paint. Say if the license plate scratches the paint and you don't see it, but the elements do.

 

I put foam tape behind my license plate to protect it. I noticed there is not a plastic holder like on the front and was worried about vibrations of the license plate on the paint.

 

The latch opener is electric with an emergency manual override that's difficult to get to with the hatch closed. That's why Toyota put jumper terminals under the hood.
A POP is a good word for the noise of the latch being released. Almost the sound of the pop you can make with your finger in your mouth, but more muffled.

The hatch always seemd to me that it would be sensitive to alignment for proper latching and unlatching, but then most car doors would be.