Finding yourself locked out of your trunk is a frustrating situation. Whether your keys are inside the car or simply lost, you need a way to get to your belongings. This guide explains how to open a trunk without a key from the outside using several practical methods.
We’ll cover techniques for different car models and situations. Always remember to check your local laws, as some methods may not be legal if you don’t own the vehicle. Your safety and the vehicle’s integrity are the top priorities.
How To Open A Trunk Without A Key From The Outside
Before you try any physical method, always check for simpler solutions. Look for a trunk release button inside your car’s cabin. Some sedans have a fold-down rear seat pass-through that allows access to the trunk from inside the vehicle.
If those aren’t options, the methods below can help. They range from non-invasive to more direct approaches.
Method 1: Using the Rear Seat Pass-Through
This is the safest and first method you should attempt. Many car models, especially sedans, have a feature for this exact purpose.
- Enter your car through an unlocked door or by opening the driver’s side if you have that key.
- Locate the rear seats. Look for a lever or pull strap at the top of the seat back, near the headrests.
- Pull the lever or strap to release the seat back. It may fold down completely or just a section in the middle.
- Climb through the opening into the trunk area. From the inside, locate the emergency trunk release handle. It’s usually a glow-in-the-dark lever or cable.
- Pull the release handle to pop the trunk open from the inside.
Method 2: Using a Slim Jim or Long Rod
This classic method works on older car models with a mechanical lock linkage. It’s less effective on modern cars with electronic releases.
You’ll need a slim jim tool or a long, flexible rod. A wire coat hanger straightened out can sometimes work in a pinch.
- Insert the tool between the rubber seal and the window on the driver’s side door.
- Carefully maneuver the tool downward, feeling for the lock linkage rod. This is a thin metal rod connected to the lock button.
- Once you hook the linkage, pull or lift it to manually unlock the door. Be gentle to avoid damaging the door’s internal mechanisms.
- Once inside, use the cabin trunk release button or the rear seat method.
Important Safety Note for Slim Jims
Using a slim jim incorrectly can damage your door’s wiring and locking mechanisms. It’s a skill that requires some practice. If you’re unsure, it’s better to try a different method first.
Method 3: Accessing the Trunk Release Cable
Some vehicles have a visible trunk release cable in the trunk latch mechanism itself. You can sometimes manipulate this from the outside.
- Look closely at the trunk latch area, usually between the trunk lid and the bumper.
- You might see a cable or a small lever. If you can fit a screwdriver or rod into the gap, you can try to push or pull the cable.
- This requires patience and a good flashlight. The goal is to simulate the cable being pulled from the inside.
Method 4: Using the Valet Key (If Available)
Many modern key fobs contain a hidden mechanical key. This is often overlooked in a panic.
- Look for a small release button or switch on your key fob.
- Press it and pull the metal key blade out from its hidden compartment.
- Use this physical key in the trunk’s key cylinder. Sometimes the trunk cylinder is separate from the door locks and might still work even if you don’t have the main key.
Method 5: Calling for Professional Help
When DIY methods fail or seem to risky, calling a professional is the wisest choice. This prevents costly damage to your vehicle.
- Roadside Assistance: If you have a membership (like AAA or through your car insurer), this is often a free or low-cost service.
- Professional Locksmith: A qualified auto locksmith can open most trunks without causing damage. They have specialized tools for modern electronic locks.
- Your Car Dealership: They can provide a new key if you prove ownership, but this is often the most expensive and time-consuming option.
Method 6: For Older Cars with Visible Latch
Very old cars sometimes have an external latch that can be manipulated with a tool. The process is straightforward but requires care.
- Inspect the latch mechanism in the center of the trunk lid.
- Insert a flat-head screwdriver or a similar strong, thin tool into the keyhole or around the latch mechanism.
- Apply gentle turning pressure, trying to mimic the action of the key turning the lock cylinder. This might pop the trunk open.
Preventing Future Trunk Lockouts
Once you’ve resolved the immediate problem, take steps to avoid it happening again. A little preparation saves a lot of hassle later.
- Keep a spare key: Hide a spare trunk key in your wallet or purse, not inside the car.
- Know your car’s features: Read the manual to understand your specific trunk release systems and pass-through options.
- Use a magnetic key box: Attach a spare key in a secure magnetic box to a hidden spot on your car’s frame.
- Check the key fob: Regularly ensure your key fob battery is charged and that you know how to access the physical key inside.
What Not To Do When Your Trunk Is Locked
In your frustration, avoid these actions that can cause serious damage or legal trouble.
- Do not force the trunk open with excessive prying. This will bend the lid and ruin the seal, leading to water leaks.
- Avoid breaking a tail light to reach inside. The release handle is rarely accessible this way, and you’ll have a costly repair.
- Never attempt these methods on a vehicle that isn’t yours without explicit permission. This could be considered attempted theft.
- Don’t ignore the possibility of a faulty release. Sometimes the issue is a broken cable or electrical fault that needs a mechanic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a locksmith open a trunk without the key?
Yes, a qualified auto locksmith can open almost any car trunk without the original key. They use specialized tools to manipulate the lock or access the release mechanism without causing damage, which is a big advantage over DIY methods.
Is there a universal trunk release button?
No, there is no universal button. The location and type of trunk release vary greatly by manufacturer and model year. Common places include the driver’s door panel, the floor near the driver’s seat, on the key fob, or as a lever under the dashboard.
How do you open a trunk with a dead key fob?
First, use the hidden physical key inside the fob to unlock the driver’s door. Then, enter the car. You may be able to start the car if it has a manual ignition or a start button that recognizes the dead fob inside the cabin. Once power is on, the electronic trunk button should work. If not, use the rear seat pass-through.
Can you open a trunk with a coat hanger?
On older cars with manual lock buttons, a straightened coat hanger can be used like a slim jim to unlock the door. From there, you can access the trunk. On modern cars with electronic switches and sealed panels, a coat hanger is rarely effective and likely to cause damage.
Does roadside assistance open locked trunks?
Yes, opening a locked trunk is a standard service for most roadside assistance providers like AAA or those through your car insurance or manufacturer. They will usally send a trained technician who can open it quickly.
How much does it cost to open a trunk without a key?
Costs vary. Roadside assistance might be free if you have a membership. A call to an independent locksmith typically ranges from $50 to $120, depending on your location, the time of day, and your vehicle’s complexity. Dealerships are usually the most expensive option.
Getting locked out of your trunk is an inconvenient problem, but it’s usually solvable. Always start with the least invasive method, like checking for a rear seat pass-through. Your vehicles manual is a great resource for specific information about your model.
If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any physical method, calling a professional is the best course of action. It’s faster and cheaper than repairing damage caused by a DIY attempt gone wrong. Remember to take preventative steps so you’re prepared if this situation ever happens again in the future.