I cant get the rear hatch on my 82 z28 to open. I was told that the switch on the center console operates it but it doesn't move or unlock or anything. None of the keys I got with the car unlock the lock under the plate either. Is there a manual way of opening it?

 

On my 87 Trans Am, the interior panel can be removed by putting yourself in an uncomfortable position over the rear seats and taking out the screws (had to do it to get mine open before), from there you can find the cable on the lock that opens it. Pull that and it should open, assuming that a Camaro has the same setup.