The average total cost for a trunk latch replacement is $277. That breaks down into $183 for replacement parts and $94 in labor costs. 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? While the exact replacement time will depend on your vehicle, a certified mechanic should take between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours to perform the job.

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

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
September 29, 2024	Harold, 29 Newark, NJ	Smart Fortwo	$331	$270	$61	0.5 Hours
September 24, 2024	Alta, 38 Nashville, TN	Alfa Romeo Stelvio	$232	$175	$57	0.5 Hours
September 22, 2024	Katherine, 40 Lancaster, CA	Genesis G80	$243	$175	$69	0.5 Hours
September 22, 2024	Marc, 42 Salt Lake City, UT	Saturn Vue	$162	$107	$54	0.5 Hours
September 21, 2024	Martin, 42 Baton Rouge, LA	Nissan Titan	$167	$107	$59	0.5 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

See fair price estimates for popular cars

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

For detailed information regarding your trunk latch replacement, you can consult your vehicle repair guide or

owner’s manual

. But here’s a general list of the parts you may need:

Trunk latch assembly: The latch mechanism is the primary component that seals your car’s trunk lid. A new latch assembly can range in price from $30 to upwards of $200.

Hardware: Depending on your car and the latch assembly you buy, you may need new bolts and screws to install the latch. These parts should cost less than $10.

Electrical connectors: Some vehicles have electrical connections built into the trunk latch. For these cars, it may be necessary to replace the connectors when you change the latch. These components can range from a few dollars to $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 latch components, ensuring secure trunk closure and ease of use 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?

When you purchase your replacement trunk latch, you’ll have to choose between an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part and an aftermarket part. OEM parts are designed specifically for your vehicle and come with a manufacturer’s warranty, but they also tend to be pricey. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, are cheaper but may be of lower quality.

Generally, OEM parts are more reliable and the best option. But if you’re looking to save some money, a high-quality aftermarket part might be the best move. Note that if you go the aftermarket route, it’s important to check the part number to confirm the proper fit.

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

You’ll have to contact your local dealership or authorized parts retailer to purchase an OEM part. You can find quality aftermarket parts at your local auto parts stores—like Advance Auto Parts, O'Reilly Auto Parts or AutoZone—or at online retailers like Amazon or RockAuto.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my trunk latch replaced?

It can be difficult to find the right mechanic. Fortunately, Jerry's

GarageGuard™

can make it easier by helping you compare hourly rates and repair costs from more than 2,500 U.S. auto repair shops.

Jerry's GarageGuard uses real hourly rates from local shops to generate fair price estimates. Use it to plan for upcoming repairs, learn about diagnostic fees, and find the shops near you with the best customer reviews.

Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare repair estimates in your area.

120 Reviews

Tisdell's Mobile Mechanic Services

(Mobile auto service), Dickinson, TX

Trunk Latch Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$341

(Parts - $216, Labor - $125)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$75

Compare this shop for free with Jerry 346) 779-3305

131 Reviews

Harrell's Auto Service - Owen

140 Owen Dr, Fayetteville, NC

Trunk Latch Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$326

(Parts - $216, Labor - $110)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$129.99

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (910) 487-5550

129 Reviews

I & A Automotive

24850 Aurora Rd Ste G, Cleveland, OH

Trunk Latch Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$301

(Parts - $216, Labor - $85)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$79.99

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (440) 252-5493

109 Reviews

Velasquez Auto Care - Archer

S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL

Trunk Latch Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$321

(Parts - $216, Labor - $105)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$45

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (773) 598-4299

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?

These are the steps your mechanic will follow to replace your trunk latch:

Disconnect the car battery (only necessary if the vehicle has an electronic trunk latch)

Press the trunk release button to open the trunk (if the trunk is stuck shut, the mechanic may have to use a screwdriver or pry bar to move the latch lock off of the striker)

Remove any plastic trim or vinyl blocking access to the latch

Remove the latch’s mounting bolts

Use pliers to remove the cotter pin securing the release cable to the trunk latch

Disconnect the wiring harness, if present

Use a new cotter pin to reconnect the release cable and latch

Install the new latch and replace the mounting hardware

Reconnect the wiring harness if applicable

Replace any trim panels or vinyl

Reconnect the battery if applicable

Test the latch to ensure it works properly

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

If you don’t replace a faulty trunk latch, you’ll likely face the following issues:

Difficult trunk operation: A bad latch may make it difficult to open or close your trunk.

Safety and security issues. A bad trunk latch may be unable to secure your trunk lid. This can lead to increased theft risks for valuables in your trunk, as well as safety risks, as the trunk may open while driving.

What is a trunk latch?

A trunk latch is a mechanical component that secures your car’s trunk lid. When activated, it locks closed, preventing your trunk from opening randomly.

The trunk latch works in conjunction with the trunk lock actuator. When you press the trunk release button in your car or on your key fob, the latch actuator engages, triggering the latch’s release mechanism.

When should I replace the trunk latch on my car?

While there is no set replacement schedule for trunk latches, you probably need to replace yours if you experience any of the following symptoms:

The trunk is difficult to open or close

The trunk lid won’t stay open

The trunk lid rattles or appears loose

A trunk warning light appears on the dash

The trunk opens while driving

Keep in mind: These issues may indicate other problems, like a faulty trunk lock actuator. If you experience any of these problems, the smartest move is to take your car to a professional automotive repair shop for an accurate diagnosis.

How often should I replace my trunk latch?

There’s no set replacement schedule for trunk latches—and you may never have to replace yours.

That said, trunk latches can wear out over time. You’ll need to replace your trunk latch if it fails and prevents you from opening or closing the trunk lid.

Can I replace my trunk latch myself?

A DIY trunk latch replacement is possible with the right know-how. It’s generally a mid-level job that requires basic mechanical knowledge and access to standard tools. While experienced home mechanics should have no trouble replacing a trunk latch, novices may be better off visiting a professional mechanic.

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FAQs

How do you fix a trunk latch?

If your trunk latch is damaged but doesn’t require a replacement, you can try the following steps to fix it:

Clean the latch of any grime, corrosion, or debris

Lubricate all moving parts

Check to see if the latch needs an adjustment

Clean or replace the electrical connections if present

If the above steps don’t work, you likely need to replace your trunk latch.

How do I know if my trunk latch is bad?

The following signs may indicate your trunk latch is bad:

The trunk is hard to open or close

The trunk won’t stay open

The trunk lid rattles or appears loose

A trunk warning light appears on the dash

The trunk opens while driving

If you experience any of these issues, take your car to a professional repair technician as soon as possible.

Why won’t my trunk latch open?

The most common reasons why your trunk latch might not open include:

Something, like dirt or debris, is obstructing the latch

The trunk release mechanism is faulty

The latch is damaged or misaligned

There’s an electrical malfunction

If your trunk lid is stuck closed, a mechanic can help you identify the exact cause and recommend repair options.

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.