How to Remove a Trunk Lock Cylinder
by Nathan Fisher
Whether you are working on a sports car, family sedan or SUV, usually the most difficult part of removing a trunk lock cylinder is accessing it. On some vehicles the trunk lock cylinder may be readily accessible, while on others you will need to remove a piece of interior trim or a cover panel. Held in place by a clip and a couple of bolts, once accessed, a trunk lock cylinder can be removed with a screwdriver, pliers and socket wrench.
Step 1
Open the trunk and examine the covered area on the inside of the trunk opposite the keyhole. Depending on make and model, use a screwdriver or a socket wrench to remove the trim panel, if necessary.
Step 2
Detach the remote trunk-release cable. On most vehicles you should be able to pull it off the cylinder with your hand by pulling straight back. On some vehicles there many be a small retaining screw. If so, remove it with the appropriate screwdriver.
Step 3
Remove the retaining clip, at the base of the lock cylinder, with the pliers. On some vehicles, the trunk-locking cylinder will instead have a retaining ring that screws onto threads on the lock cylinder. Use the screwdriver to loosen and remove the ring.
Step 4
Remove the retaining bolts from the mounting bracket with the socket wrench and remove the lock.
References
Tips
- If the license plate mounting bracket is located in the trunk, you may need to remove the tag-light assembly to reach the lock cylinder.
Things You'll Need
- Needle-nose pliers
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Socket set
