E61 Tailgate Problems - Glass Release
 

I'm starting to address a few issues with my recently acquired (second) E61. Maybe some of what I know will be helpful to others, and I'd appreciate any experienced commentary and suggestions.

Situation: The glass hatch doesn't open. The radio has lost reception, so I want access to the diversity amplifier under the tailgate spoiler and so need to open the glass hatch. I also want to know the condition of the hinge wiring before problems start.

Background: The glass hatch microswitch is a weak design and can only be replaced with the hatch open. The hatch can be be released manually, but the tailgate inner trim panel restricts access - it can't be fully removed without opening the glass hatch. Catch 22!

Solution: Remove the warning triangle and trim cover. Remove the two plastic stud fasteners and all the visible screws. There are still two screws holding the panel at the top under the glass hatch which you cannot access - don't worry. Remove the small square tab that gives emergency release access to the main tailgate lock blade. This gives access to a single screw into the blade which should be removed. The blade can now be eased to allow the trim panel to be released over it. This give sufficient access to get a thin screwdriver into the release slot on the glass hatch lock.

it looks like perhaps you removed a few extra trim pieces to get that glass open! =)

you can open the tailgate glass with DIS .

even if the microswitch is faulty?

Yes my micro switch no longer works but i was able to open the tailgate glass using DIS V57
FYI I tried INPA but was only able to open the lift gate .

good to know. my acts up from time to time.

any idea if this functionality exists in ISTA? I'm not as familiar with DIS

I tried ISTA (Rheingold) and was not able to activate the tailgate glass however I think the ISTA P might be able to.
DIS was the software BMW dealers used until about 2009, you can run it on a laptop using VM ware or as a native install on some older laptops.
Do a google search u will find plenty of info.