What causes the malfunction of the BMW 5 Series electric tailgate?
4 Answers
Reasons for the malfunction of the BMW 5 Series electric tailgate: issues with the linkage rod or lock cylinder; failure to unlock; mechanical component failure, etc. Below are the detailed explanations for the causes: Linkage rod or lock cylinder issues: If you frequently use the key to open the tailgate, the linkage rod may be disconnected. In this case, you should go to a repair shop. If you always use the remote control to open the tailgate, the lock cylinder might be dirty or rusted. Spraying rust remover into the lock cylinder a few times can help open it. Failure to unlock: If you haven't used the remote key to unlock, it will be difficult to open. Before attempting to open, it's best to press the unlock button on the key or check if the key battery is dead. If the battery is dead, replace it with a new one. Mechanical component failure: The wiring for the trunk may be broken, or other trunk-related issues may prevent the car trunk from opening. It is recommended to visit a 4S shop for repair or replacement.
I've encountered several BMW 5 Series with electric tailgate issues before, and generally the faults boil down to a few main causes: insufficient battery power can make the control system act up, motor overheating or getting stuck can cause it to stop working, and dirty or misaligned sensors often lead to misjudgment. Then there are the usual suspects like blown fuses or poor wire connections. If pressing the key or button doesn't get a response, first check the door lock status, or manually open the tailgate to see if the mechanical parts are stuck. If all else fails, try disconnecting the negative battery terminal to reboot the system. Remember, never force it open, as this can easily damage the motor or hinges. BMWs have a lot of electronics, and minor issues often stem from damp or dirty environments. I recommend regularly cleaning the sensor areas and, if the car isn't used for long periods, it's best to run the battery occasionally. If it really comes to repairs, it's more worry-free to get a professional check at a 4S shop to prevent small problems from turning into major faults.
My BMW 5 Series had a similar issue before. That time when I went to the supermarket, the trunk just wouldn't open. First, I checked if the key battery was dead. After replacing it, I tried again but it still didn't work. Then I thought maybe the button was malfunctioning, or the tailgate switch was stuck. I tried restarting the system—it's simple: turn off the engine, lock the car, wait ten minutes, and then try again. If that doesn't work, check the fuse box, located on the side of the trunk, and see if any fuses are blown. Don't mess around with it too much—last time my colleague forced the door open and damaged the sensor. During regular maintenance, pay attention to any unusual sounds from the tailgate motor. If it happens on the road, remember to use the emergency manual release lever as a temporary fix. If you really can't solve it, just take it to a BMW specialist repair shop.
As a BMW owner, I often delve into its systems. Electric tailgate malfunctions can stem from various sources: control module failure (like a faulty BCM affecting signals), sensor malfunction (such as hand induction or anti-pinch failure), motor burnout, or gear wear. A simple reset sometimes works: hold the tailgate button for ten seconds to reboot the system. If the motor hums but doesn't move, it might be stuck or obstructed by foreign objects. Another possibility is software glitches; connecting to a computer to diagnose the codes can help. Personally, I also avoid using the tailgate in harsh weather, as rainwater entering the circuits can cause short circuits. Regularly cleaning the gaps with a soft brush is advisable. Overall, failures are often due to aging or misuse, and timely intervention can save on major repair costs.
