How to Pick a Car Trunk Lock: Emergency Guide

Published: Jan 7, 2026

Getting locked out of your trunk is frustrating and stressful — especially during travel, bad weather, or when something valuable is locked inside. So, what can you actually do? In this guide, we’ll explain how to pick a car trunk lock, what safer alternatives to try first, when to avoid DIY, and why calling a professional is often the best solution. At Sure Lock & Key, we know that trunk lockouts are more common than people realize — and we’re here to help.

Top 3 Safe Alternatives to Try Before Picking Your Trunk Lock

Before attempting to open your trunk without a key, try these safer, damage-free options:

1. Try the Emergency Release

If your vehicle is newer (2002 or later), it likely includes a car trunk emergency release handle. Check behind the rear seats for a pull tab or latch that lets you open the trunk from the inside.

2. Check for Valet Key or Remote Access

Some cars come with a valet key or trunk release button on the key fob. If available, this is one of the easiest ways to open a trunk from the outside without risking damage.

3. Contact a Car Locksmith

If you’re locked out with no access to a spare, a mobile locksmith can help fast. At Sure Lock & Key, our trained car locksmith team is equipped for trunk access without damage or delay.

Key Precautions Before Attempting DIY Trunk Lock Picking

Trying to open a trunk from the outside without the right tools or experience can do more harm than good. Consider the following before attempting DIY:

Picking a lock on a modern vehicle may trigger the car alarm or disable electronic systems.
You risk scratching the paint, bending the lock, or breaking the internal components.
DIY efforts can void warranties or lead to expensive repairs.
If done incorrectly, you may permanently damage the lock cylinder, making it unusable even with the key.
Some trunk locks are connected to your car's central locking system — forcing them may affect all doors.

Only try automotive lock picking if it’s a true emergency — and you’re prepared to deal with the risk.

How to Pick a Car Trunk Lock: Tools & Methods

If you’re in an emergency and need to act, here are common methods for how to pick a car trunk lock without a key — each with its own risks:

1. Tension Wrench & Lock Pick

Insert a tension wrench into the lock and apply light pressure while using a pick to manipulate the pins. This works best on older locks — not on modern vehicles.

How to Pick a Car Trunk Lock: Tools & Methods

2. Auto Jigglers (Try With Caution)

These keys are shaped to mimic the most common cuts and may open older trunk locks with slight turning and jiggling. They’re unreliable on newer models.

3. Lishi Tools

Lishi picks are advanced tools made for automotive lock picking. They allow for decoding and unlocking but require experience and should only be used carefully.

4. Slim Jim (Method for Door Access)

Slim Jims don’t open trunks directly, but they can unlock the car door — allowing you to access the car trunk emergency release inside. Read our full guide on how to open a car door lock.

5. Drilling the Lock (Last Resort Only)

Drilling will destroy the lock completely and should only be done when no other option exists. It guarantees a full lock replacement afterward.

For a full step-by-step breakdown, check our dedicated guide on how to open a car trunk without a key.

Why Professional Help Is Usually the Smarter Option

Knowing how to pick a car trunk lock without tools doesn’t mean you should. Most modern vehicles have built-in security that makes DIY ineffective—or damaging.

Hiring experts like Sure Lock & Key ensures a fast, safe solution. Our techs are trained to open a trunk from the outside or inside, using advanced tools that avoid damage and bypass alarms. Whether it’s an older model or a keyless entry system, we’re equipped for the job.

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Save Time & Stress with Sure Lock & Key Lockout Services

Getting locked out of your trunk can happen to anyone — but rushing into DIY solutions often leads to more trouble. Start with safer alternatives like cabin access or emergency releases, and only attempt picking if you understand the risks. When in doubt, trust experienced locksmiths at Sure Lock & Key. Our reliable car lockout services are designed to save you time, money, and unnecessary damage. If you’re stuck with a locked car trunk and without tools, don’t stress. Call Sure Lock & Key — and leave the hard part to us.

FAQs About Picking a Car Trunk Lock

Can I open a trunk without a key from inside the car?

Yes. If your vehicle has fold-down seats or an interior latch, you can often access and unlock the trunk from inside.

What’s the safest way to open an old trunk without a key?

Try auto jigglers or call a professional. DIY methods may work on older models, but it’s easy to damage the lock.

How to pick a car trunk lock without tools?

In rare cases, a thin metal strip or improvised shim might work—but it's very difficult without proper tools.

Will picking the trunk lock trigger the car alarm?

It might. Many modern vehicles have security systems connected to the trunk, which is why DIY picking can sometimes cause more issues than it solves.

Can I pick a car trunk lock using a bobby pin?

Technically possible on very old locks, but it’s extremely difficult and often ineffective — especially on modern vehicles.

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