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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace a trunk latch release cable?
Where can I get my trunk latch release cable replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my trunk latch release cable?
What happens if I don’t replace my trunk latch release cable?
What is a trunk latch release cable?
Can I replace my trunk latch release cable myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

Load full table of contents

How much does it cost to replace a trunk latch release cable?

The average total cost to replace a trunk latch release cable is $181. That breaks down into $49 for replacement parts and $132 for the mechanic’s labor. Keep in mind that those are averages—your actual cost will depend on your car and location.

How long does it take to replace a trunk latch release cable? While the exact time will vary based on your car, most trained mechanics can complete the procedure in one to three hours.

Here’s a breakdown of trunk latch release cable replacement costs for different vehicles:

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
April 12, 2024	Isabella, 30 Dublin, PA	BMW 530	$293	$137	$156	1.5 Hours
April 11, 2024	Sarah, 33 Westfield, NJ	Alfa Romeo Stelvio	$323	$137	$186	1.5 Hours
April 10, 2024	Marian, 34 Elizabeth, PA	Volvo V50	$235	$50	$185	1.5 Hours
April 8, 2024	Glenn, 38 Independence, MO	Ram 2500	$192	$13	$179	1.5 Hours
April 4, 2024	Sarah, 45 Sparks, NV	Chrysler Voyager	$246	$50	$197	1.5 Hours

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

Get a free fair cost estimate for my car

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What parts do I need for my trunk latch release cable replacement, and how much do those parts cost?

You should consult your vehicle repair guide or

owner’s manual

for detailed guidelines, but here’s a general overview of the parts you may need:

Trunk latch release cable: This is the primary component that you’ll need to replace. It connects the trunk latch mechanism to the release lever, allowing you to open the trunk from inside the cabin. A new trunk lid release cable can cost between $20 and $80.

Hardware: This includes any clips, fasteners, or grommets you may have to replace when you change out the cable. These parts are typically inexpensive, ranging from a few bucks to around $20.

We recommend purchasing parts at local auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O'Reilly Auto Parts, as well as online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto. We also recommend reputable brands such as Dorman, ACDelco, and Genuine Parts Company (GPC) for trunk release cable components, ensuring reliable trunk access and smooth operation for your vehicle. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are designed by your car’s manufacturer specifically for your vehicle. These parts come with a manufacturer’s warranty and tend to be high quality. Aftermarket parts can fit a wider range of cars and come with cheaper price tags, but they may be of lower quality.

Generally, you should opt for OEM replacement parts whenever possible—especially if you drive a newer vehicle. But if you’re strapped for cash, a quality aftermarket part may be the best choice.

Where can I buy the parts for my trunk latch release cable replacement?

You can purchase OEM parts from your local dealership or authorized parts retailer—but prepare yourself for the higher dealer price. Aftermarket parts are available at your local auto parts stores—like Advance Auto Parts, O'Reilly Auto Parts or AutoZone—or online retailers like Amazon or RockAuto.

If you go the aftermarket route for your new cable, remember to check the part number to confirm it will fit your vehicle.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my trunk latch release cable replaced?

It can be difficult to find a quality mechanic if you don’t have an existing relationship with one. Fortunately, Jerry's

GarageGuard™

can help you compare repair costs from more than 2,500 U.S. shops.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ uses real hourly rates from local shops to provide you with fair price estimates. Use Jerry's GarageGuard™ to learn about diagnostic fees, budget for upcoming repairs, and find repair shops near you with the best customer ratings.

Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to search for affordable car repairs near you.

174 Reviews

Yoo's Auto Service & Collision

189 W Duncannon Ave, Philadelphia, PA

Trunk Latch Release Cable Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$159

(Parts - $49, Labor - $110)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$100

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (215) 457-7777

118 Reviews

Pep Boys Auto Parts & Service - Homewood #514

18024 Halsted St, Homewood, IL

Trunk Latch Release Cable Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$227

(Parts - $49, Labor - $178)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$99.99

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (708) 647-0774

181 Reviews

Sunset Garage

601 Kains Ave, San Francisco, CA

Trunk Latch Release Cable Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$257

(Parts - $49, Labor - $208)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$185

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (650) 692-7011

187 Reviews

1DM AUTO

7590 McGinnis Ferry Rd, Duluth, GA

Trunk Latch Release Cable Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$165

(Parts - $49, Labor - $116)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$65

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (770) 866-5183

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my trunk latch release cable?

Your mechanic will follow these general steps to replace your trunk latch release cable:

Disconnect the cable from the trunk release lever (this may involve removing the carpet and driver’s side seat)

Disconnect the cable from the trunk latch (the mechanic may need to disconnect clips and retainers to remove the trunk liner and various trim panels to access the latch)

Remove the old cable

Route the new cable along the old cable’s path

Connect the cable to the latch mechanism

Connect the cable to the release lever

Test the new cable to ensure it works properly

What happens if I don’t replace my trunk latch release cable?

If you don’t replace a faulty trunk latch release cable, you risk developing the following issues:

Difficulty opening the trunk: If you put off repairing a trunk release cable for too long, it may become increasingly difficult to open the trunk—and if the cable breaks, you may end up unable to open the trunk at all.

Inability to access spare tire or emergency supplies: If your trunk doesn’t open, you may be unable to access your spare tire, emergency supplies, or any belongings stored in the trunk.

Damage to other components: If your trunk release cable is damaged, it may put added stress on other parts, like the trunk lock actuator or release lever.

What is a trunk latch release cable?

A trunk latch release cable connects your trunk release lever to the trunk latch mechanism. When you pull the release lever, it transmits pulling force to the cable, engaging the latch mechanism to open the trunk.

When should I replace the trunk latch release cable on my car?

As there is no set replacement schedule for trunk latch release cables—you’ll only need to replace yours if it fails. Here are the most common signs that you may need a new trunk latch release cable:

The trunk doesn’t open when you pull the release lever

The release lever feels loose

The cable has visible corrosion

The trunk won’t open at all

Keep in mind: Some of these issues may indicate other problems with the trunk components. It’s always a smart idea to contact a professional mechanic for an accurate diagnosis.

How often should I replace my trunk latch release cable?

There is no set interval for replacing a car’s trunk latch release cable. The cables are durable and designed to last for many years, and you may never have to replace yours.

That said, they can stretch, fray, and wear out over time, and you should replace yours if you’re having trouble opening the trunk with the release button.

Can I replace my trunk latch release cable myself?

For home mechanics with mid-level auto repair skills, a trunk latch release cable replacement can make a solid DIY project. The job requires a moderate level of mechanical experience and access to a variety of standard tools.

If you’re a car repair novice, you’re probably better off visiting a professional mechanic for the replacement.

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FAQs

Why won’t my trunk latch open?

The most common reasons why a trunk latch won’t open include the following:

The trunk latch release cable is faulty

There’s an electrical malfunction

There’s a problem with the lock cylinder

The trunk latch mechanism is jammed

The trunk latch is misaligned

The interior trunk release feature is disabled

Your key fob battery is dead

Can a fuse cause a trunk not to open?

If your car has an electric trunk release, a

blown fuse

can cause it to not open. Many modern vehicles use electric trunk releases in place of cables. A blown fuse can cut off the power supply to the trunk actuator, preventing you from opening the trunk.

Is it expensive to replace a trunk latch?

The cost to replace a trunk latch depends on several factors, including your car, your location, and OEM vs. aftermarket parts. Generally, the average cost should fall somewhere between {X} and {X}. But to find out how much a trunk latch replacement costs for your car, you should contact your local repair shop to get a quote.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.