Yes, small items like keys, coins, or cards can easily slip into the gaps between a car's trunk lid and the body, or alongside the trunk floor. This usually happens when loading or unloading groceries, luggage, or other belongings. The most common entry points are the channels and seams around the trunk opening. While often just a nuisance, these items can sometimes slide deep into the cavity of the rear quarter panels or near the taillight assemblies, making retrieval difficult and potentially causing rattles or interfering with components.
To prevent this, using a trunk liner or cargo mat is the most effective solution. A high-quality, form-fitting mat or liner raises the cargo floor slightly and covers the seams and gaps where items typically disappear. For items that have already fallen in, a flexible grabber tool or a coat hanger straightened out with a hook at the end can often fish them out. If the object is out of reach, you might need to remove the interior trunk trim panels, which can vary in complexity depending on the car model.
If left unrecovered, small objects usually aren't a major safety hazard but can create persistent, annoying rattles while driving. In rare cases, a metallic object could theoretically short-circuit wiring if it lands on a critical connector, but this is uncommon. The primary concern is the inconvenience of losing the item itself.
| Common Items Lost in Trunk Cracks | Ease of Retrieval | Potential Risks |
|---|
| Keys, Key Fobs | Difficult (can be costly if lost) | Major inconvenience, replacement cost |
| Coins, Credit Cards | Moderate to Difficult | Financial loss, rattling noise |
| Small Tools | Moderate | Rattling, potential to damage wiring if sharp |
| Jewelry (earrings, rings) | Very Difficult | High personal value loss |
| Pet Leashes/Hooks | Easy to Moderate | Can snag on components |
