Need trunk help

Kevinbest · 08-25-2012, 06:41 PM

Let me start by saying hello to everyone and how happy I am there is an e46 community. Alright, last Tuesday I purchased my first e46, a 2001 330ci 5 speed. The car is beautiful, but has an issue I need to take care of. The trunk has no lock in place (empty hole) and none of releases work, including my key. I can get into the trunk through the back seat, but the emergency release is missing. I'm assuming the wiring harness for the trunk is disconnected, because the reverse lights don't work and the dash shows the trunk being open. So, how do I get the trunk open and what is the best method to resolve this issue. Thanks everybody, take care.

View My Garage · 08-30-2012, 11:08 PM

Your safest bet is to remove the rear trunk lid liner from inside the trunk and mechanically open the trunk. When you take off the trunk liner you'll see the mechanical linkage that will open the latch.
Most likely the root issue is the harness within the passengers side trunk hinge has severed. You'll need to cut and place an extension wire to repair it.

Good Luck!

08-25-2012, 06:41 PM	#1
Kevinbest Registered User Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 20 My Ride: 2001 330ci View My Garage	Need trunk help Let me start by saying hello to everyone and how happy I am there is an e46 community. Alright, last Tuesday I purchased my first e46, a 2001 330ci 5 speed. The car is beautiful, but has an issue I need to take care of. The trunk has no lock in place (empty hole) and none of releases work, including my key. I can get into the trunk through the back seat, but the emergency release is missing. I'm assuming the wiring harness for the trunk is disconnected, because the reverse lights don't work and the dash shows the trunk being open. So, how do I get the trunk open and what is the best method to resolve this issue. Thanks everybody, take care.

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08-30-2012, 11:08 PM	#2
94583 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: San Francisco Bay Area Posts: 35 My Ride: E39 View My Garage	Your safest bet is to remove the rear trunk lid liner from inside the trunk and mechanically open the trunk. When you take off the trunk liner you'll see the mechanical linkage that will open the latch. Most likely the root issue is the harness within the passengers side trunk hinge has severed. You'll need to cut and place an extension wire to repair it. Good Luck!