How to Open a Trunk

Co-authored by Tom Eisenberg and Amber Crain

Last Updated: December 19, 2024 Fact Checked

When you can't find your car keys or your electronic key fob isn't working, getting into your trunk may seem like an impossible mission. Fortunately, there are some tricks you can try to get into the trunk. If your car is unlocked, it's very easy to get the trunk open. However, if your car is locked, you'll need to open it before you can even think about getting into the trunk. When in doubt, always call a locksmith.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Using Your Keys

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Most cars that have been made post-2000 come with key fobs that allow you to electronically open a vehicle's locks. In most cases, there’s a special button on the fob specifically for the trunk. Push that and the trunk will pop open.^{[1]
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Nearly every car model has a lock mechanism on the trunk, so you can get into the trunk if the electronic key fob isn't working. Fit the car’s key into the trunk lock and turn it, the trunk should open easily.^{[2]
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Activate the trunk open feature in the front seat if the car is unlocked. Most car models have a button or lever on the dashboard or in the front seat area that opens the trunk. If you’re in the front seat, you can easily push the button or pull the lever to pop the trunk.^{[3]
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- If you’re not sure where the trunk button or lever is in the front seat, consult the owner’s manual for the car to identify its location.
4
Contact the nearest car dealership for an emergency key. For example, if you drive a Ford and there's a Ford dealership nearby, contact them about possibly providing you with an emergency key to unlock the trunk. These emergency keys can only unlock the trunk and car doors, but they won't fit in the ignition or start the car.^{[4]
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- You'll probably need to show the dealership proof of ownership before they'll provide this service.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Using a Slim Jim

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1
Slide the hook end of a slim jim between the window and trim. To open a car without the keys, you’ll need a slim jim or lockout tool. Place the sim jim tool against the passenger’s side window with the hook end facing downward. Slide the tool down between the window and the window trim at the bottom near the door handle.^{[5]
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- You can purchase a slim jim at most automotive parts stores.
- A slim jim won’t work on a car with electronic locks. If your car is electronic and you don’t have the key, key fob, or access code, your best bet is to call a locksmith.
Move the tool down so it fits into the gap between the door and window. There is a lock rod in that area that connects the lock to the handle. Slide the slim jim around near the door handle until you feel it hook the rod.^{[6]
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Once you’ve hooked the rod, carefully move the slim jim upward to unlock the door. You’ll know that the door is unlocked when you hear the lock click.^{[7]
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When the door is unlocked, you can climb inside the car. If the vehicle still has power, you can simply use the trunk open button or lever to pop the trunk.^{[8]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Getting in without Power

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1
Move into the backseat and locate the seat release mechanism. If you can’t use the trunk open mechanism in the front seat to open the trunk, climb into the back seat. Many car models have release mechanisms for the back seats that allow you to fold them forward so you can access the trunk. Check your owner’s manual if you’re not sure where the lever is.^{[9]
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- Not all car models allow for trunk access from the back seat. If yours doesn’t, it’s best to call a locksmith to open the trunk.
2
Pull the lever and fold the seat forward. When you’ve found the seat release mechanism, pull the the lever forward. Grab the top of the seat with your other hand, and pull the seatback forward.^{[10]
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- Depending on the size of your car and the size of your body, you may need to fold both seatbacks forward to provide access to the trunk.
3
Climb into the trunk and locate the safety release lever. Once you can see into the trunk, crawl forward so you can slide as least partway into the trunk. Find the trunk safety release lever in the trunk, which usually glows in the dark and may be located at the back or the front of the area depending on your model.^{[11]
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- Cars made before 2002 may not have a trunk release safety feature, which is designed to prevent children from accidentally locking themselves inside.^{[12]
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- If you can’t find your trunks safety release lever, consult your owner’s manual.
When you find the safety release feature, yank down on the lever. The trunk will then spring open.^{[13]
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Community Q&A

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Question

My trunk is locked and I have no key. There is no fob or inside trunk release, and I cannot get through the back seat, as there is a solid brace blocking it off. What should I do?

Community Answer

Take the car to a shop. Or, try unscrewing the tail light and using a strong wire to open the latch.

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To avoid any damage to your car, it’s always best to call a locksmith if you don’t have the keys and can’t get into your car to open the trunk.

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Use the electronic keypad to open the car if you have the code.

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