The trunk of the car will not close because something is wrong with the latch. How can I fix it so the trunk closes?

Chances are the striker is now bent from slamming the trunk with the latch latched. My suggestion is take the car to a competent body shop. They might charge a little for fixing it, but wont do further damage.

You need to replace the Latch assembly part thats located inside the trunk

Thanks

make sure inside trunk release in trunk is not stuck in open position also try pulling on to try to release it

try having someone push the switch while you use something like a screw driver pulling open the latch claws. this may be all it is.

The latch possibly needs flicking to the unlock position, press the button or operate the trunk handle as you flick the latch, it possibly hit something prior to hitting the keeper and put it in the lock position.

emergency release should be in the trunk as for the closing of the trunk, you need to disconnect the cable at the trunk latch until you can get it fixed

have a look at the trunk latch mechanism.sometimes they get closed when they should be open(the fingers that lock the trunk lid closed).if its in the closed position just unlock the trunk with the key and use something to pop open the lock(fingers) then the trunk will close again.

It sounds like the latch mechanism is in the closed position, which would prevent it from catching when you close the trunk lid. Try using your key to unlock the latch, or activate the trunk opener from inside the car. If neither of those works, you may have to use a screwdriver or similar bladed tool to manually open the latch. Also, check the metal bracket that the latch catches on. It could be out of position, or could have something covering it, preventing the latch from locking onto it.

Tailgate/trunk latch will not engage so the tailgate just bounces won't close - is there something I can do to fix this on my own?

With the trunk open try putting the key in and turning so that the latch swings open. This may be the problem. The latch may be stuck closed. with the key turned make sure the latch is open if it is not then take a scrwedriver and pry on the latch with the key turned to open it. Then try to close the trunk. I hope this helps. Don't forget to rate my answer. thanks.