Opening your trunk manually may seem like a simple task, but depending on your car model, the situation, and the tools at your disposal, it can quickly become confusing or even frustrating. Whether your car battery is dead, your key fob isn’t working, or you’ve simply misplaced your keys, knowing how to access your trunk without power can be incredibly useful. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most effective, step-by-step methods for opening your trunk manually across a variety of vehicle types and circumstances.
Why You Might Need to Open Your Trunk Manually
It’s easy to take for granted modern conveniences like keyless entry and automatic trunk releases. However, when these systems fail, knowing how to manually open your car trunk can save you time, money, and stress.
Battery Failure
One of the most common reasons for needing to manually unlock your trunk is a dead battery. Without power to the electrical system, you won’t be able to use remote unlocking or trunk release buttons inside your vehicle.
Lost or Broken Key Fob
Modern cars often rely on a key fob for remote access. If you’ve lost yours or it’s malfunctioned, you may not be able to unlock your doors or trunk remotely. Fortunately, most vehicles still feature a traditional key slot you can use.
Vehicle Lockout
Sometimes, you might accidentally lock yourself out of your car with your keys inside the trunk. This can happen more frequently than you might think, especially if you’re loading groceries or other items and close the trunk too quickly.
Opening Your Trunk Manually: Key Methods by Vehicle Type
Not all cars open the same way. Depending on whether you have a sedan, hatchback, SUV, or luxury vehicle, your method for manually opening the trunk will vary. Below, we explore the most reliable techniques for a variety of car makes and models.
Using the Physical Key
Almost every modern car still includes a physical key, even if it’s hidden within the key fob. This can be inserted into a dedicated lock cylinder that unlocks the trunk lid.
Locating the Trunk Keyhole
The trunk keyhole is usually well-hidden for aesthetic purposes. It may be under a small cover near the license plate, behind the emblem, or in some cases, below the rear windshield on hatchbacks.
What to Do If You Can’t Find the Keyhole
If you’re unable to locate the keyhole, do not attempt to force open the trunk. First, consult your vehicle’s owner manual. Alternatively, search online for the phrase “[Year] [Make] [Model] trunk keyhole location” for detailed images or diagrams.
Using the Emergency Trunk Release
Many modern cars are equipped with a safety feature designed for children or anyone who might accidentally become stuck inside a closed trunk. This internal release handle can sometimes be used from the outside to gain access in emergency situations.
How to Use the Emergency Trunk Release from the Inside
The emergency trunk release is usually a small glow-in-the-dark handle located inside the trunk compartment. If you find yourself locked out with tools or keys inside, you’ll need to reach the handle somehow.
Use Interior Access Through the Back Seat
If your keys are locked inside the trunk and you can’t access the emergency release, you can often fold down your rear seats (if available) and crawl into the trunk from the interior.
Step-by-Step Process
- Locate the seat recline mechanism. Most rear seats have a small lever or loop that allows you to fold them flat.
- Fold the rear seats forward to create an opening large enough to pass through.
- Enter the trunk area through the opening and manually pop open the trunk latch from the inside.
- If your trunk latch is not accessible from inside, locate the emergency release handle or use a long object to trigger the latch externally.
| Vehicle Type | Back Seat Accessibility | Emergency Release? |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan | Common | Yes (sometimes) |
| Hatchback | Yes | Almost always |
| SUV | Yes (varies by model) | Yes |
Advanced Methods for Modern Vehicles Without a Keyhole
Some newer cars, especially from brands like Tesla, Hyundai, or Toyota, do not feature a traditional keyhole for trunk access. This is because they are built with push-to-start systems and digital key interfaces. If you’re locked out of your car and have no way of unlocking it via the app or a spare fob, your options are limited—but not impossible.
Alternative Unlocking Solutions
Using a Slim Jim or Auto Unlock Tool
These tools are designed to slip between the window and the door frame to reach the locking mechanism inside the vehicle. While they require some skill and may damage your car’s weather stripping if used improperly, they can provide access to your trunk from inside.
Calling Automotive Assistance Services
If you own an electric or keyless car, your best option may be to contact a professional. Roadside assistance services like AAA, your local dealership, or a certified auto locksmith can gain entry without damaging your car.
Using a Valet Key (If Applicable)
Some luxury vehicles include a valet key in the original key fob set. This physical key can open the driver’s door and start the vehicle but may not be capable of opening the trunk directly.
What to Do If Your Valet Key Doesn’t Open the Trunk
You may still need to enter through the front door and try accessing the trunk via back seat access or interior trunk release.
Tools and Techniques for Manual Trunk Access
Sometimes, opening your trunk manually isn’t about what your car offers—it’s about what tools you have on hand. Whether you’re looking to help someone in an emergency or simply recover your own lost item, knowledge of these tools can come in handy.
Utilizing a Coat Hanger
While not always successful (and not recommended for newer vehicles), a straightened coat hanger can be used to attempt a manual unlock of the trunk.
Step-by-Step:
- Use a sturdy wire coat hanger and unbend it completely.
- Feed it through the edge of the trunk lid or through the window gap (if accessible).
- Try to hook the interior trunk lever or latch.
- With patience and persistence, pull it forward or up to open the trunk.
Long Tools or Rods for Latch Access
For hatchbacks or sedans with an internal trunk lever visible from the exterior, inserting a small but long object such as a screwdriver or thin rod through ventilation slots or gaps in the door seal can trigger the trunk latch.
Important Tips
- Use a soft-tipped tool or wrap the end with a cloth to prevent scratching the car.
- Move slowly and carefully—some mechanisms are delicate and costly to repair if damaged.
Leverage Tow Hooks or Hood Latches (In Emergency Only)
Certain vehicles have an internal hood latch that can be accessed if you know the location and are desperate. While not directly leading to trunk success, getting into the hood allows access to the battery, which might let you jump-start your car and engage power locks again.
Vehicle-Specific Guides for Manual Trunk Opening
Each car brand has different designs and security protocols. Understanding the features of your specific car can significantly influence how successful you are at opening your trunk manually.
Ford
Many Ford models include a physical trunk key located inside the key fob. If you’ve lost the key, some newer models allow you to unlock the trunk using the FordPass app in case of battery failure. Always check the trunk keyhole under the license plate if not obvious.
Hyundai
Hyundai smart keys often include a physical key blade on the remote. Look for the hidden keyhole near the trunk emblem. Press it down slightly and insert your key for a manual unlock.
BMW
BMW models often feature a trunk keyhole that is covered behind the emblem. Older models (pre-2010) have more visible keyholes; newer models have them tucked for aesthetic reasons. Some BMWs also allow trunk access through the use of an NFC key card (if you have one on hand).
Tesla
Tesla vehicles do not have traditional keyholes. If your Tesla key fob or phone key app is unavailable, you’ll need to:
- Contact Tesla Roadside Assistance via the Tesla Motors App or website
- Access the vehicle via the hood to jump-start the key fob battery
- Create a PIN code through the Tesla app to unlock vehicle temporarily
When to Call a Professional
Knowing when to stop and call for help is an important part of being a responsible vehicle owner. There are a number of situations where attempting to access your trunk yourself can lead to further issues.
Situations Where Professional Help is Needed
- Locked Keys Inside the Trunk: If you’re unable to access your vehicle at all, breaking a window or forcing open a door can lead to unnecessary damage.
- Electric or Keyless Cars: Without the proper tools and knowledge, you can risk losing vehicle warranty if certain components are damaged.
- Old Luxury Cars: Many high-end models have advanced central locking and security systems that can be easily damaged through forced entry.
Cost of Professional Trunk Unlocking
| Service Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| AAA Unlocking | $50–$150 (varies by location and vehicle complexity) |
| Commercial Locksmith | $75–$200+ |
| Dealership Assistance | $100–$250 |
Preventative Tips: Avoid Getting Locked Out
Rather than waiting for an emergency to occur, there are several preventative steps you can take to make sure you’re not caught off guard when your key fob suddenly becomes unresponsive or your battery dies unexpectedly.
Keep a Spare Key
Whether it’s hidden in a secure spot outside your vehicle or stored with a trusted family member, a physical key backup is invaluable.
Use a Key Fob Battery Tester
Many stores sell small, inexpensive key fob battery testers. Use them every 6–12 months to check the health of your remote’s battery before it leaves you stranded.
Enable Smartphone Access
If your car has a manufacturer’s smartphone app (e.g., FordPass, Tesla App, BMW ConnectedDrive), enable it and keep the app downloaded and updated to use as a backup unlocking method.
Educate Your Family or Friends
Everyone in the household should know where the spare keys are and how to unlock the vehicle manually. This is especially important when multiple people use the same vehicle.
Consider Keyless Entry Upgrades
If you’re often locking yourself out of your car, consider having a keyless entry system professionally installed. These systems allow you to unlock your doors, and in some cases, access your trunk with just a keypad entry.
Conclusion: Stay in Control with Manual Access Knowledge
While most modern vehicles make manual trunk access less common, it remains a critical skill for emergency preparedness, security, and practicality. From locating hidden keyholes to leveraging interior entry and understanding vehicle-specific details, the techniques covered in this guide provide you with a comprehensive toolkit to open your trunk manually whenever needed.
Knowing how to access your trunk without relying on power or remote systems isn’t just about convenience—it’s about confidence and control in times when the unexpected occurs. By preparing in advance, staying informed, and knowing your vehicle, you’re always just a turn of the key—or a fold of the back seat—away from retrieving what’s inside.
Always store your original key guide and spare tools wisely, and consider periodic practice with manual trunk opening techniques to ensure you stay sharp and ready in case of emergencies.
Whether you drive a classic sedan, a high-tech EV, or anything in between, you are now equipped with the knowledge to never be locked out again.
What should I do if my car battery is dead and I can’t open the trunk?
If your car battery is dead and your trunk is locked, there are several options you can try. Many modern cars have a mechanical key hidden in the key fob that can be used to unlock the trunk manually. Check your vehicle’s manual to locate the keyhole, which may be hidden under a small cover. If your trunk doesn’t have a key slot, you may need to access the trunk from the interior of the car, provided the doors can be unlocked.
In some vehicles, you can fold down the rear seats to gain access to the trunk area. This method usually applies to sedans or coupes with foldable seats. If this isn’t possible and you don’t have a spare key, you might need to jump-start the car using jumper cables or a portable battery pack. Once the battery has some charge, your electric trunk release should function again, allowing you to open it normally.
How can I open the trunk without a key fob or remote?
If you don’t have access to a key fob or remote, the first thing to check is whether your vehicle has a mechanical key that can be used manually. Some cars conceal the physical key within the key fob, so check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure where it is or how to use it. If your vehicle doesn’t have a mechanical key, another option could be using the trunk release lever inside the car, typically located near the driver’s seat or on the dashboard.
If you’re locked out completely and don’t have a spare key, it may be necessary to contact a locksmith or roadside assistance. Do not try to force the trunk open, as this can result in damage. If your vehicle has smartphone integration or an app with remote trunk access, you can use that instead—provided your phone is charged and connected to the internet.
Is there a way to open my trunk using the emergency release inside the car?
Yes, many vehicles have an emergency trunk release lever located inside the car. This feature is typically found near the driver’s seat, either in the glove compartment, on the dashboard, or under the rear seat. It might be labeled with a small trunk icon or marked with the word “trunk.” Pulling the lever should unlatch the trunk, allowing you to open it from the outside.
However, not all vehicles include this emergency lever, so it’s important to consult your owner’s manual to verify if your specific model has one. If the lever is present but not labeled clearly, try opening the interior panels or check near the rear seat area. In some cases, you may need to remove a small panel or lift up carpeting to access it.
Can I open the trunk from the back seat in my car?
Many vehicles allow you to open the trunk from the back seat, especially those with foldable rear seats. To do this, locate the small handle or lever inside the car near the rear seat, usually situated at the junction between the seatback and the trunk. Some cars also have a pass-through or folding section in the rear seat itself, which can be folded down to provide access to the trunk space.
Before attempting this method, ensure the interior trunk release is accessible from the rear of the vehicle. Some models may require you to unlock the car doors first to access these mechanisms. In certain cases, there may also be a safety latch near the trunk lid that prevents the trunk from opening from the inside—check your owner’s manual for details.
How can I access the trunk if the trunk release button or lever doesn’t work?
If the trunk release button or lever isn’t functioning, the first step is to check if your vehicle has a mechanical key or alternative method for trunk access. A dead key fob battery or electrical malfunction could be the cause of the problem, so using a physical key might bypass the issue temporarily. If there is no mechanical key, inspect the fuses under your dashboard, as a blown fuse could be preventing the electrical release mechanism from operating.
You can also try resetting the trunk latch mechanism by manually locking and unlocking the vehicle doors multiple times. If none of these methods work, investigate your car’s interior for hidden emergency release mechanisms. For vehicles with smart key systems, holding the key fob near the start button or trunk sensor area may help reactivate the system if the fob’s battery is weak.
Can a locksmith open my trunk without damaging it?
Yes, a trained locksmith can typically open your trunk without causing damage to your vehicle. Professional automotive locksmiths are equipped with the proper tools and expertise to safely manipulate locks and release trunk mechanisms without the need for force. This is especially helpful if your trunk lacks a mechanical keyhole, your remote is not working, and you don’t have access to an interior release lever.
It’s best to choose a reputable locksmith service so they can verify your ownership and ensure secure, damage-free entry. Some roadside assistance services include a locksmith in their membership plans, which can be a convenient and cost-effective option in an emergency. Always ask the locksmith what method they’ll use to open your trunk before proceeding.
What tools or devices can I use to open my trunk manually in an emergency?
In case of a trunk lockout, you may use a physical key if your vehicle is equipped with one. Some models allow you to slide a slim tool, such as a Slim Jim or a lock pick tool, through the window or trim to manually unlatch the vehicle. However, these tools require practice and must be used carefully to avoid damaging your car’s windows, locks, or internal mechanisms.
Alternatively, you can try using a portable battery pack to jump-start your vehicle if your key fob requires power to work. Another device some users find helpful is a phone mountable key fob extender that amplifies the signal of your smartphone-connected key system. Always store a spare mechanical key or keep your key fob’s battery fresh to avoid being caught off guard in an emergency situation.