What to Do When the Car Trunk is Frozen and Won't Open?
2 Answers
Use a hairdryer to blow warm air for about ten minutes, or park the car in the sun for approximately an hour. Here are some methods to open the trunk: 1. Remote key control (outside the car): Press the trunk release button on the car key directly. Some models may not have a dedicated trunk button on the remote key, in which case pressing the unlock button will also release the trunk. 2. Interior control switch (inside the car): Opening the trunk from inside the car is also possible. Most models on the market are equipped with a trunk release button. The location of this button varies depending on the manufacturer and model, typically found on the left side of the steering wheel or in the central control area. Some models may not have a button but a lever instead. These levers are usually located on the lower left side of the driver's seat or the steering wheel, marked with an icon of a car trunk opening.
I often drive in Northeast China, and a frozen trunk is all too common. Never yank the seal hard! Pouring warm water along the seams to melt the ice works best—just keep the water temperature below 60°C, or the glass might crack. If you have a hairdryer handy, it’s even more convenient: just blow it at the lock for about three minutes, and it should open. After opening the trunk, remember to wipe away any water and apply a thin layer of Vaseline or silicone lubricant to the rubber seal to prevent freezing next time. Once, at -20°C, I forgot to do this and ended up tearing a seal, costing me hundreds to replace. Keeping a bottle of de-icing spray in the car is also practical—just a couple of sprays in an emergency will do the trick.
