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Corvette: How to Open Your Hood with a Dead Battery

A dead battery can be frustrating enough on its own without the added dilemma of being unable to enter your car to jump it or replace the battery. Before you give in and call for assistance, these methods can help you successfully get into your car and open up the hood.

By Kate Halse - March 3, 2015
Contributors: Spin Monster

This article applies to the C5, C6 and C7 Corvette (1997-current).

Opening the Corvette's hood may not be as straight forward as it is in some vehicles, but that doesn't mean that you won't be able to get into the car if the battery is dead. It's easiest if you have the keys in hand, but if not, there are some other tricks to try. Whether you're currently dealing with a dead battery or you just want to be prepared for the future, it's best to familiarize yourself with these different DIY methods, most of which just take a few minutes to complete.

Materials Needed (all optional)

  • Jumper cables
  • Jack stands
  • Car keys
  • Replacement battery

Step 1 – Unlock the hatch

This step is for owners who have access to their car key. Start by removing the key from the battery fob device, then locate the keyhole above the license plate holder in the back of the car. Unlatch the trunk by turning the key. Locate the cable on the left side of the trunk's interior then pull it down; this will open up the driver's side door.

Figure 1. Unlock the trunk hatch with the key inside of the key fob.

Step 2 – Jack up the car and attach the jumper cables

If your battery's dead and your keys are inside, you'll need jumper cables to access the hood. Jack the car up then attach the jumper cables to the engine ground wire and the positive battery line attached to the starter motor.

Depending on the state of the battery, this process may take up to three minutes.

(Related Article: How to Jack Up Your Vette - CorvetteForum.com)

Figure 2. Connect jumper cables to battery line.

Pro Tip

Be sure to plug the cables into the positive battery line rather than the cranking terminal.

Step 3 – Open the door

Once the battery has enough power, you should be able to get the door open. It's important to note that the trunk's rear button won't operate if the key fob is in the driver compartment.

It may be necessary to use small, flexible gauge wires to get around the car's headers and manifolds, but even in tighter settings there should be ample space to open up the door.

Featured Video: How to Enter and Exit a Corvette with a Dead Battery

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