bd79

Dear all,

I have a question on a problem with the boot release switch on my E60 520d. The switch in the boot handle will not open the boot when the car is unlocked. However, all of these work to open the boot:

The remote open from the key fob works.
The release button in the driver's footwell works.
The key inserted beside the number plate works.
** When I open the boot and use a screwdriver to engage the lock, the switch in the handle will open it then! (so the switch electrics and button seem to work OK) **

I am hoping there is something simple like a fuse, code, security setting, sensor in the boot or specific wire that somebody will know is the issue. I inspected the wires from the switch and lock and none seem damaged/frayed.

In case it matters, I needed to change the licence plate and boot lights and they were LEDs rather than the originals.

Any advice greatly appreciated.

E60AUS

Remember, all doors must be unlocked to use boot handle. Drivers door unlocked only will leave boot locked. Hope that is all it is for you.

bd79

Hi thanks, no I'm afraid it's not just that, all doors are unlocked. It is very unusual behaviour as ithe button in the handle will work if I engage the lock with the boot open (using a pen or screwdriver) and then will not work if I then just close the boot normally.

jtbgonesailing

Are the license plate lights working when you turn on the headlights? More than likely, the wireing harness, that travels through the right trunk arm, has frayed and broken wires, where it exits the trunk hinge arm, below the parcel shelf, in the trunk. That is a known problem for the trunk release not working

Good luck and keep us posted..

Oh, welcome to the group...

E60AUS

In that case it is what jtb above me just said. Easy fix,just remove trunk lid lining and unclip harness clip (1 will do) just to give you some slack then pull through harness where it enters boot hinge and unwrap until you see the cracked wire insulation. Wires wont be broken,but when you close the lid they touch and short. Just wrap them over each crack and re assemble. You will see the problem area as it is basically a 90 degree bend in wires where they enter the hinge.....easy,but allow a couple of hours to remove lining to create slack and reassemble.

efy

I had this problem too a while ago take the boot lining out and check the position of the actuator first before messing around with wires, for some reason mine had moved out of place

bd79

Thank you all for your advice - I am going to take the time to fix this tomorrow.

efy,​​​​ what exactly was out of position? The angle of the lock actuator, or something else?

E60AUS, which end of the hinge is the location of the bend causing the damage - the lid or the boot itself (i.e. which direction do you put the wire bundle?

Thanks for all your help.

E60AUS

There's a great pdf that will show you what i was trying to explain. Google search - Diy-E60 Trunk Boot Wiring Harness Repair - Boot Open Error . You will find this PDF posted on the bimmerfest site with pictures and instuctions. These wire issues are the cause of 90% of the issues with boot electrics.

bd79

Thanks E60AUS and jtbgonesailing that worked a treat!

One wire completely broken, 3 frayed and 3 cracked, all working now after repair.

You would never have guessed unless you pulled the bundle out and removed the outer covering!

Thanks for the great advice!

jtbgonesailing

Your welcome sir... glad it worked out. Now go enjoy a brew and ponder the disorder of the world.