In the event of a power loss, some C8 Corvette owners may be left scratching their head as to how they can access the rear compartment of their mid-engine sports car. After all, GM deleted the key lock cylinder located behind the license plate with the launch of the 2023 model year, and as such, access requires a few extra steps. Luckily, GM has outlined how to access the C8 Corvette’s rear compartment after a power loss.
In a preliminary information bulletin (PIC6502A), GM outlines several methods to access the rear compartment of the 2023+ Chevy Corvette in the event of a power loss. GM recommends that mechanics try these methods in order, from the easiest to the most complex. Preferably, the methods should be performed by a certified GM technician, as well.
Accessing the rear compartment in convertible models involves opening the rear stowage compartment lid (tonneau panel). After applying some kind of protection for the paint, a wedge or airbag tool can be used to create a gap between the weather stripping and the rear compartment lid. A slender tool with a bore scope can then be inserted through the gap to locate and pull the emergency release handle on the passenger side of the latch assembly.
For both coupe and convertible models, another method involves lifting the vehicle and removing the right rear wheel and tire, as well as the rear wheel liner in order to expose a grommet in the body. A slender tool with a hook can then inserted through the wheel well into the rear compartment to pull the emergency release handle located on the passenger side of the latch assembly.
If the rear compartment is full and access to the emergency release handle is blocked, a more involved method is required. This method involves drilling an access hole in the rear tub, and may require a specific tool. This method is outlined further in the January 2023 Emerging Issues Video, and is only suggested when other methods fail.
Finally, in cases where there is a mechanical issue with the rear compartment latch assembly and none of the outlined methods work, the document advises contacting the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) to discuss further steps.
Extra comfort for rear-seated passengers.
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Seriously?!
Ridiculous in an effort to save on a lock and key that probably saves gm $0.53...
Total head-up-the poop chute design.
Cheap @ss Gm ceos
Apparently, high-tech excludes common sense, proven mechanical contraptions. But Mary saved $0.53 on a Corvette...such a genius CEO!
Gotta pay for that expensive and financially upside-down EV fairy tale somehow.
Jumper Cables?
The bean counters win again!
Well, more than that, because the whole mechanical linkage is gone, too. But yeah, probably not more than $20 in total, including the labor to assemble it. Stupid cost cutting, but all the manufacturers are doing it, not just GM.
I like that color!
I think the gray color shown here has too much green undertone for my tastes.
But color is very subjective.
“Take off the rear license plate”?????
So the lesson here is:
Do NOT keep your screwdriver-containing tool kit in the REAR trunk. 🤪
Just another example of gm not caring one bit about their customers. I just bought a new Colorado and it has no printed owner's manual. They save a couple of bucks and the customer is left holding the bag. Sure, you can download a digital copy on your phone, computer, tablet. Little consolation in most cases where you really need some information. Their good news is you can get a printed one from HELM. $80.00 delivered to your house snail mail. This was the 29th new gm vehicle I have purchased in my life and right now I think it will be my last.
Hey, Old Mechanic, it's not just GM, most if not all of the manufacturers have done this. I have a relative that bought a new F150 and he was complaining about the lack of an owner's manual. Another bought a Honda, per this relative, Honda has also stopped supplying Owner's manuals, but like the others you can order one and pay through the teeth for it. Guess they all think they need to save a few bucks, since they pay their CEO's and others at the top, millions to screw the customers out of owner's manuals, locks, cheap plastic parts, etc. But the same CEO's will tell their workers they can't afford to give their workers a raise.
JB, my 2024 Maverick Tremor has keyed tumblers in driver's door and tailgate. The key is hidden in the pocket remote control.
gm, how is this not common sense as a standard backup design?
You've made this comment twice, so I'll answer it twice: the C8 has a keyed tumbler in the drivers door.
From there you can access the frunk and replace or jump the battery.
Pretty sure this article was about difficult and convoluted trunk access, no Bob?
Why get rid of it, Bob?
Make the keylock cylinder a $2 option and for another $2 an option that lets you shift into neutral when the engine is not running
Wow, what a mess. My 2021 .. has the license plate keyhole. and you only need to do that if you need access to back trunk for tools. But, lets talk about the eventual latch failure... Maybe there should be a cable loop inside the cabin behind a seat?? It seems that would be an easier way to secure and allow access if needed. I have had to replace a battery, I only needed to get to cabin, from cabin open front trunk using manual pull cable. I bet a smart person could design an accessory cable to add on that would do what I suggested. It cannot be that hard to add a properly designed cable pull to the rear latch.
Didn't know that. I have a 2024 model and I think that a leisurely Saturday would be a good time for me to install a cable from behind the seat to the trunk lid, can't be that hard and would only take about a six pack.
An AR-15 with a 30 round clip aiming at the lock will probably suffice also
OK, this is so convoluted. All steps needed in case of battery power loss. 1- Access passenger compartment via mechanical key contained in the fob. 2 - Pull (hard twice) mechanical override cable on firewall. 3- Remove plastic panels covering access to battery. 4- Charge, jump or replace battery. (All accomplished without tools). Everything electrical should now be fully functional. No holes to drill, no need to jack up the car and no need to overthink this issue.
JB, my 2024 Maverick Tremor has keyed tumblers in driver's door and tailgate. The key is hidden in the pocket remote control.
gm, how is this not common sense as a standard backup design?
The Corvette has a keyed tumbler in the drivers door. You really shouldn't comment on things you know nothing about.