Tailgate opening at random

[cj10jeeper]

Over the last couple of weeks a very strange problem has arisen.

The tailgate simple unlatches itself as if the key or open button were being pressed when starting off. This mainly happens when engaging reverse gear, but sometimes when switching the headlights off. Typically it will happens just as the vehicle begins to reverse.

Very frustrating at I have to dive out and close it from which point it will function perfectly.

It as if some combination of starting, lights on/off and moving triggers a rogue signal to the tailgate lock.

Anyone seen or heard of anything like this? The vehicle is pretty much stock aside retrofit xenons with relays, but they were fitted well over a year ago without any issue.

Cheers
Cj10jeeper

[993turbo]

I dont have an answer to your problem, but I want to mention that this does happen on my ride as well, but only occasionally.......

[cmyX6go]

It used to happen on my '01. Something with the latch. It was a quick fix by the dealer. There are a few threads here, one was pretty recent. I can't seem to find them right now.


EDIT: Found them. Search "hatch opens" there are quiet a few. Here's one http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e53-forum/...ht=hatch+opens

[cj10jeeper]

Thanks for the lead to the other thread. No definitive answers there, but it does give me a couple of clues to go work on

Also reassuring that I'm not alone on this odd and annoying problem

[okcguyX5]

My 2001 X5 does it also. I finally found out that when all doors are unlocked with the remote it will happen. If I only unlock my driver door with the remote, then open the other doors from the inside manually (not the lock/unlock button inbetween the seats), the problem disappears. I know I will need to get it fixed, but this will at least keep you from having to jump out of your car everytime you want to drive it to close the tailgate. It can be quite annoying to say the least.

[cj10jeeper]

Interesting observation re the drivers door opened alone. Mine has real odd times to open a favourite is when turning the healights on.

Way too cold at -3c today to even think of looking at it....

[Dutch1]

Has anyone found a resolution to this? I found one post on an e70 forum but... Mine opens at random as well. Turn signals, Lights on & off while in Park, Hitting the interior light button. Any of these will pop open the top gate. While parked or Driving - I figure I'll likely start with the rear hatch activation button..Once it warms up that is..

[80stech]

Sounds like a voltage feed back or poor ground problem. I haven't had it happen yet but I would be looking at a wiring diagram if it did.