Hidden Trunk Release Mod
 

It's convenient to have a remote trunk release, both to me and to the crooks that prey on tourists in their rental Impalas and Malibus. All they need to do is break the window and push the button to gain access to the trunk.

I don't want to be a victim again (Firebird window smashed for change in the cupholder, iPod in the console) so I first decided to disconnect the dash button to at least protect what is in the back. First idea was to hide a switch that would disable the dash button, second was to just run the control wire to the hidden switch.

Here's the project:

Get a switch. Need a momentary contact single pole single throw one. The kind that closes when pushed and opens when released. Style can be special to your needs, a rocker or toggle would be ok in some places, a button in others. My chosen style mimics the plastic fasteners that attach the knee-panel.
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/monteca...e4a49fd21e.jpg


Gain access to behind the dash.

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/monteca...aa2bb999b9.jpg


You can wiggle the plug off of the light/traction/trunk control or take the dash apart more and bring the switch out into the open,

Need to find the one wire that is connected to the trunk release and snip it. Cut it at lease 2 inches from the plug so you can mend the mod back to stock.
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/monteca...84b05b92b4.jpg


On my '06 LT with no auxiliary lights it is that blue wire. If all you want is disable the release you can tape or heat shrink the end and be done.
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/monteca...e2596a6822.jpg


In my mod I soldered a length of wire to the harness end and extended it to my super secret switch location.
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/monteca...418c7d07ed.jpg


Connect the extension to one terminal of your switch and a wire to chassis ground to the other terminal,
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/monteca...efa75f81ac.jpg


Test your wiring, secure your switch and put parts back together and you are done.

I later returned to this mod when I installed a pair of PIAA European style horns in the space under the driver side headlight. The trunk button now makes the Ferrari horn go off, through a relay. Scares the pants off of the tire service guy opening the trunk to check pressure in the spare!

I like this. Nice write up

Well aren't you quite the wizard here. I bet your system would really do the trick and cause a thief to stay at the car longer than he was wanting to and just give up trying to get into your trunk. I see your from Cali Bay area, bet there are a significant number of the crimes of opportunity, numb nuts who prey on the tourist crowd.

I agree with Zach in that your write up with accompanying pictures was very well done, even a Ford owner could do it... :eek: