A dead (or dying) car battery can stop you in your tracks if you don’t know how to open the trunk with a dead battery. Not knowing how or having access to a secondary key is no excuse for not being able to get into your trunk. With just some simple tools, items found around most vehicles and having the determination to get into that trunk, you’ll be on your way with this HOW TO article guide on opening the trunk with a dead battery.

Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Aro... Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Around

Step 1: Get that spare tire out of the trunk! The first thing most people will do is pop open their hood and attempt to jump start the vehicle using another power source like another running car or emergency jumper pack. Before doing so, try popping open your spare tire. Pull the release handle or knob that will allow you to remove your spare tire from its holder. Inspect the battery cables and connections; make sure they are snug and not corroded. If they are corroded clean them up with a wire brush, if there is any noticeable damage here due to corrosion – replace the cables. Now go ahead and replace your spare tire (or do not) in preparation for step 2.

Step 2: Prepare to lift open the trunk! Ok now that you have some light let us get started on actually opening up your trunk. You can do this using a simple tool such as a flathead screwdriver, butter knife, or even coin available around most new vehicles. Locate the two latches under the lip of the trunk lid. These latches are usually hidden behind either side of the license plate. If you can’t find them, look for a small black button or lever located near the rear edge of the trunk lid. Once you’ve found the latches, use your tool to pry them open.

Step 3: Lift open the trunk! Now that the latches are open, gently lift up on the trunk lid and it will open with little to no effort. If for some reason it doesn’t open, go back to step 2 and make sure that both latches have been released properly. With a dead battery, this is often the issue so make sure that you take your time and inspect everything before trying again.