Rear Glass Hatch Switch Replacement

Yesterday when pulling out of a petrol station my rear glass hatch release activated and the luggage cover retracted. At the time I thought maybe I just hadn't closed it properly but it happened again later in the day. After a bit of research on BMW Land I discovered this was a common problem and either meant a problem with the wiring or more likely, the hatch switch. Since the new switch was reasonably priced, and was the most likely cause, I decided to replace it.

It took about 15 minutes to remove the old switch and refit the new one. There are some picture below. Note that some older cars might have difficulty removing the old switch due to corrosion between the aluminium collar of the old switch and the wiper spindle. Use penetrating fluid and don't force it or you may shatter the glass hatch. I had no such problems though and it was an easy fix. All working well now after more than a week.

Parts & Costs:

• 1 x Key button (p/n 61.31.9.200.673) = £31.86

Photos

Hole in the hatch

Cleaned residue from old gasket using glass cleaner

New switch

Feed the wire through the hole

From below with switch fitted

You need to be careful not to trap the wire when you refit the wiper spindle

Wiper spindle assembly

I gave this a cleanup and lubricated it before refitting

Plastic trim

Retained with two nuts and washers

Plug wiring back in

Double check the wire isn't pinched

Retaining nut and washer

Don't forget to refit the plastic washer. Take care not to make too tight.

New switch fitted

Just the wiper arm to refit

Plastic trim refitted

Plastic nut covers go over these nuts

Old switch

Took this apart to have a look. Membrane type switch with carbon impregnated rubber pad making the circuit. Probable moisture ingress causing a low impedance when off.