Since I've had it the trunk on the XJ is unlocked.I don't have the key that locks the trunk,so I have never locked it.Now it seems it is locked,can't get it open.I did lock the car at a store the other day and then unlocked it, my other 2 keys- ignition key and petrol key won't unlock the trunk. Why would it be locked now??????

 

If you relectric locks are operating properly, the truck lock solenoid should lock when you lock the doors with the door key from the drivers side. If you don't have this happen frequently, it could be that the lock is only working some of the time (hence the surprise lock). On all of my previous models, the petrol key has also unlocked the trunk. If that doesn't work (be sure to try pushing down gently on the middle-top of the trunk lock mechanism), try locking and unlocking the doors manually from the drivers door to see if that can unlock it. I'm sure someone with better/alternate advice will come along but I know it can be frustrating to not be able to get into the trunk!

 

You may only have the valet key. I think it only unlocks the doors and perhaps the fuel fillers... or after all these years the lock cylinders may have been changed too.

 

Have you got a grommet-filled hole behind your rear number plate ? If you have, I think you'll find that allows you to manually 'trip' the lock.

 

hi the central locking on series 3 only locks the trunk (boot over here). even if you have the right key the lock doesn.t move very far between lock and unlock so try spraying releasing agent into key hole and working key back and forward sharply as it may just be seized due to lack of use

 

all good advice...no grommet hole near the lock so I can't do that. did all diff key motions that did not work. I will try the spray into lock see what happens. One good thing is that my uncle who owned the rig previous is sending along some keys he found.....hopeing for the best since inside the trunk is a nice car cover and a real spare tire ....thanxs all

 

I was mailed spare keys from the previous owner ....still would not unlock. Sprayed wd40 in the lock for a couple of days......before calling the locksmith I tried it again and it popped open!!! Merry Xmas to me.Once open I sprayed everything inside the trunk with wd40 its back to normal.Thanxs all for responding

 

if you can remove the license plate screws and remove the license plate, you end up with holes through which you can see the vertical linkage that connects the lock to the latch, (looking through the two right side holes), and with very thin needlenose pliers, you can grab and push/pull the linkage up and down until it opens.