Keys locked in the trunk is a different problem from a standard car lockout. On many vehicles the doors lock automatically when the trunk closes, the inside trunk release is disabled when the car is locked, or a dead battery stops the remote and the power release from working at all. Chicago Car Keys provides mobile trunk lockout service in Chicago and nearby Cook County suburbs, opening the trunk or hatch without damaging the lock, the weatherstrip or the paint.
We first work out how your vehicle’s trunk is secured. Some trunks can be reached through the cabin once a door is opened, using the fold-down rear seat or a pass-through. Others have only a key cylinder, an electric release or a hands-free hatch, and each one needs a different approach. Because this is vehicle-entry work, identification and proof of ownership are required before we open anything.
Trunk Lockout Services We Provide
- Opening a trunk or hatch with the keys locked inside
- Getting into the cabin first when the doors locked along with the trunk
- Trunks that will not open from the remote, the button or the inside release
- Opening a trunk when the vehicle battery is dead
- Trunk lock cylinder problems and keys that will not turn
- Replacement or spare keys if the keys inside are damaged or missing
Why Trunk Lockouts Happen
The most common cause is setting the keys down while loading groceries, luggage or tools, then closing the lid. Push-button-start vehicles are designed to detect a smart key left in the trunk, but that detection does not work on every vehicle or in every situation, especially when the key battery is weak. A dead vehicle battery is the other frequent cause: without power, the remote, the dash button and the power hatch all stop working, and many newer vehicles have no exterior trunk keyhole.
Before You Call
Check whether any door is still unlocked and whether the rear seats fold down from inside, because that may give access to the trunk without any lock work. If a spare key is available at home, that can also be the fastest option. If neither works, have the year, make and model ready, and tell us whether the vehicle battery is working and whether the doors are locked too.
Mobile Trunk Lockout Service
We come to the vehicle at home, at work, in a parking lot or on the street, so no tow is needed. Our mobile service is based in ZIP code 60632, and shop service is also available at the affiliated Omega Locksmith location at 4346 W. 51st St. in Chicago by calling ahead. If the keys are locked inside the cabin rather than the trunk, see our emergency car lockout service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you open my trunk without damaging the car?
Yes. We use non-destructive entry methods matched to your vehicle, so the lock, the weatherstrip and the paint are left intact.
My keys are in the trunk and all the doors are locked. Can you still help?
Yes. In that case we usually open a door first and then reach the trunk from inside, or open the trunk directly, depending on the vehicle.
My car battery is dead and the trunk will not open. What can I do?
Many vehicles have a hidden key blade inside the fob and a concealed keyhole, and some have a manual release inside the trunk. If you cannot reach either, we can open it for you.
Do I need to show proof of ownership?
Yes. We ask for photo identification and registration, title or other proof of authorization. If those documents are locked inside, let us know when you call.
Related Lockout and Key Services
For keys locked in the cabin, see our emergency car lockout service. If the keys are lost rather than locked inside, see lost car key replacement. For a remote or fob that stopped opening the trunk, see key fob programming and car remote replacement.
Keys locked in the trunk? Call 773-521-7000 for mobile trunk lockout service in Chicago.