How do you open the trunk on a 1998 Jaguar XJ8 if the battery is dead and the key won't open it?

Answer 1

Boost it. Safe and easy way is through something like the cigarette lighter port (they actually make jumper cables with cigarette lighter plugs on both ends for this purpose), but to do it quickly, you can jump it from the high-current post on the back of the alternator. Attach the positive cable there, and negative to a good ground on the engine or chassis. If you don't feel comfortable identifying your alternator's high current cable, consult a qualified mechanic. I'm a locksmith, and I've had to find inventive ways into cars where the battery is dead, the battery is in the trunk, and the keys won't open the trunk. Happens more often than what you might think, especially on European cars. This is my preferred method.