Car Trunk and Car Boot: What's the Difference?

Posted:

05 June,2024

Updated:

30 April,2025

0 min read

The storage space located at the rear of the Car is termed as "Car trunk" or "Car boot". Though both terms mean the same, they are called differently in different regions. In the United States, it is called a "Car Trunk", whereas in British English, it is called a "Car Boot". In Indian English, it is called "Car dickey or dikki or dikky", which is called by the people of South Asia. They serve the same purpose of storing items such as luggage, tools, groceries, etc.

comparison of car trunk and boot

What is difference between Car boot or Car Trunk?

Car trunks or boots differ in size depending on the make and model of the Car. Some big-size cars, such as SUVs, may have more space to accommodate larger items or more luggage.

 

Many car trunks or boots have extra features such as nets, hooks, or organisers to help keep items organised. Keeping these items in an organised manner will prevent their movement while in transit. Car trunks also have a provision for spare wheel storage and a jack, providing essential tools in case of tyre puncture.

 

In recent years, car trunks or boot are designed according to the latest trend. They are easily accessible with a remote-operated or hands-free opening system. This is convenient for loading and unloading the things stored in the boot or trunk when your hands are full.

 

Common Features of Car Trunks or Car Boots

The car trunk or car boot is a storage compartment located at the rear of the car. The primary function is to provide space for all the items to be stored safely without bothering the seating space. Some of the important functions and uses of car boot or car trunk are as follows:

 

1. Storage space

This space is designed by the car manufacturers according to the make and model of the car. This helps in storing various items such as luggage, groceries, tools, sports equipments and much more. It provides an organised space to prevent them rolling around while the Car is moving.

 

2. Secure

Items stored in the boot or trunk are not seen from outside. The visibility of the objects are less and hence reduces the risks of theft. This space provides an additional layer of security for our valuable things.

 

3. Safety

By storing all the items in the car trunk or boot, you prevent damage occurring due to sudden stop or collision of the car. This also helps to protect the people sitting in the car from potential injuries during accidents.

 

4. Space optimisation

Car trunk or car boot is designed to maximise storage space within the car allowing the passenger to travel freely. They don’t have the need to keep the storage items beside them while travelling.

 

5. Convenience

Storing the items in the car boot or trunk space are more convenient for loading and unloading, rather storing and carrying them in and out through the car doors. It’s mainly useful for heavy items.

 

6. Emergency Items

Almost all cars store emergency equipment such as a spare tyre, jack and jumper cables in the boot or trunk. This helps in having essential tools handy in case of breakdown or flat tyre.

 

Care guide for Car Trunk/Car Boot

Proper care of your car boot or trunk ensures its functionality and longevity. Here’s a list of tips for maintenance.

Cleaning: Regular trunk cleaning removes dirt, debris, and dust. Wiping and cleaning spills and vacuuming the interior will help prevent odours and mould growth. Regular cleaning will keep your car in top condition.


Check for leaks: Inspect the trunk regularly, especially after heavy rains or car washes. Water leaks can damage the trunk’s interior. Check the trunk for any signs of water leaks, and if you find any, repair them promptly. 


Overloading: Overloading the trunk can strain the hinges, latches, and struts. To avoid overloading, check your vehicle’s maximum load capacity in the owner’s manual and adhere to it. This will protect your trunk from damage.


Weatherproofing: Make sure the trunk’s weather seals are in proper condition. It prevents water, dust and pests out of the trunk. And if you find any damages repair it immediately.


Interior protection: Protect the interior of the trunk with liners, mats, and cargo trays. These will protect the interior from spills, scratches, and wear. Additionally, these materials make interior cleaning easy and prevent dust or debris from getting inside. 


Avoid hazardous materials: It is important not to store any hazardous or inflammable material in the trunk. These materials can pose a safety risk and can damage the trunk. 


Load safety: When transporting sharp or heavy objects, secure them so that they do not damage the trunk’s interior. This will ensure safety while driving and keep your trunk in good condition.


Emergency items in place: Keep the emergency items like jack, spare tyres and jumper cables in easily accessible place. This will be helpful in case of roadside issues.


Security: It is important to lock your truck properly to ensure safety. If you notice any issues with the latch or lock, repair them immediately to prevent any theft or unauthorised access.


Conclusion

Car Boot or Car trunk means the same component of the car. Though the difference lies in region and terminology, it conveys the same meaning. Having a spacious boot or trunk helps in safe and comfortable travel of the passengers.

 

When you buy a car, you think about the boot space for sufficient storage purpose of your car, same like think about protecting your car with Shriram Car Insurance policy which is important as they provide extensive coverage, safeguarding against accidents, theft, natural disasters, and third-party liabilities.

 

FAQs

1. What is Car boot or car trunk?

A car boot or trunk is the storage space at the rear of the car.


2. What is a Car dickie?

“Car dickie” is a colloquial term used in South Asian region to refer the boot or trunk of the car. The word "dickie" comes from British word “rumble seat”. These seats were often used for luggage.


3. Is it a Car “Boot” or “Trunk”?

Car boot or trunk means the same. It is called differently as “car boot” in UK and “car trunk” in US.


4.What are the parts of a car boot?

The parts of the car boot are listed below.

  • Trunk lid

  • Hinges

  • Latch

  • Struts

  • Interior liner

  • Cargo hooks

  • Trunk light

  • Emergency release lever

  • Weather seals

  • Spare tyre well


5.What is a powered trunk or boot?

A powered trunk or boot opens and closes automatically using an electric motor without requiring the passenger or driver to lift it manually. It operates through a button on the car key fob, a button inside the car, foot sensors, and a button on the trunk or boot.


6.What should I do if my trunk/boot won’t open?

If your trunk does not open, use the key fob or a physical key to open it. If your car trunk does not open even after that, do not try to open it yourself; take it to an authorised dealer for repair.


7.Do hatchbacks have trunks or boots?

Hatchbacks do not have a separate trunk or boots like sedans. They have a rear hatch door that lifts upwards and gives access to the cargo area that is connected to the passenger cabin.

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