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Rear trunk lock removal

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Old Apr 3, 2026 | 01:07 PM
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Default Rear trunk lock removal

Hi, i need to get the rear trunk lock out because i don't have a master key and i want to replace it with a new lock/key i have. 2008 LS3 automatic coupe.

I know i have to drill out two rivets but is it possible to remove the lock without removing the complete rear bumper? The lock is attached to a cable and an electric wire, can it come out through the rear light opening? Or the trunk?

Thanks in advance!
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Old Apr 3, 2026 | 01:10 PM
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You should be able to have a key cut from the VIN if you have any dealers in your country.
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Old Apr 3, 2026 | 01:32 PM
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I have understood from a Corvette dealer that cutting a key from a VIN number is not possible in Europe/the Netherlands.

I have a complete lock with key from a salvage yard. looking to replace the whole unit so i have a working key. Need that also to program a new fob.

My car came with only one fob, no keys
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Old Apr 4, 2026 | 03:06 AM
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So back to my original question: can i remove the rear trunk lock without removing the whole rear bumper? Anyone?
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Old Apr 4, 2026 | 06:12 AM
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Looking at the below YouTube video and eBay link it looks like you can go through the passenger side inboard taillight to remove the key/switch assembly, not sure where the lock cable attaches. Not a lot of information on this subject.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/15778913713...b8882a5ec3f5e8



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Old Apr 4, 2026 | 07:29 AM
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That is great info, thanks a lot.

Any idea where the other end of the release cable is going?
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Old Apr 6, 2026 | 12:58 AM
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Old Apr 6, 2026 | 03:57 AM
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Thanks a lot HK770 for that picture. This is sort off the route i like to avoid...

The reason for me asking is i want to replace the lock without having to remove the whole rear bumper.

The cable on the trunk lock seems fixed on the lock, but seems to just snap in to the hatch release mechanism. So i should be able to remove the lock with the cable, snap it loose on the other end and have it out of the car. It is guided through the trunk wall to somewhere in the trunk space, i would like to know if that end is also accessable.
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Old Apr 6, 2026 | 04:48 AM
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Looking at the above picture my guess would be that the locking latch (and cable end) is on the back wall of the trunk and pulling the carpet back should reveal that.
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Old Apr 6, 2026 | 05:36 AM
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Looks like that may be doable.
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Old Apr 6, 2026 | 06:15 AM
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Ok i will go for it these days and post the results for someone else who might run into the same question.

A huge thank you to all who replied/helped!
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Old Apr 6, 2026 | 10:06 AM
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I did understand your problem and you not wanting to remove the rear bumper. But you did ask how cable was attached on the other end. Though a pic was worth a thousand words.

You are most welcome/Hope all goes as planed and wish you well ......HK
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Old Apr 6, 2026 | 10:54 AM
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Originally Posted by HK770
I did understand your problem and you not wanting to remove the rear bumper. But you did ask how cable was attached on the other end. Though a pic was worth a thousand words.

You are most welcome/Hope all goes as planed and wish you well ......HK
This is why i love the Corvette community....
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Old Apr 6, 2026 | 04:30 PM
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Originally Posted by TriggerTrade
Get a key cut from the VIN
Cant he is in the UK
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Old Apr 6, 2026 | 10:45 PM
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Originally Posted by Smokehouse00
Cant he is in the UK
In the Netherlands to be more specific, but why can't a Chevrolet dealer in Europe cut a key from a VIN anyway? I have full proof of ownership...
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