Xoutpost.com - After Market Rear Door Release?

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- - After Market Rear Door Release? (https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/x3-e83-forum/16006-after-market-rear-door-release.html)

I dunno if someone has the time/skills to do this, but perhaps someone could cut a square into the "DSC/heated seats/TPMS" row of buttons and put it next to the switch for the passenger heated seat. That would make it look factory-installed like the one in the X5. Maybe coincidentially, even if all options are ordered, there is an empty space on that row of buttons next to the pass. heated seat switch. :dunno:

Quote:

Originally Posted by pete_c

RastaGurl, Do you have a copy of the instructions? Is there a "wrapped" connector for trunk release behind the glove compartment?

Unfortunately, I don't think I have the instructions any more. I'll check when I get home. You could also ask your local dealer to fax you a copy. The dealership here's pretty good about accomodating such requests.

Quote:

Originally Posted by AzNMpower32

I considered that option, but it's virtually impossible to install the trunk release switch in that location unless you literally break apart the row of buttons. They're not individual switches in the sense that they're all sealed in the same plastic enclosure.

Installed my rear door release today. While doing it also installed AUX port. Took my time when cutting the hole and notch for the switch. Works well. Attached is a PDF with instructions. Will post completed pics.

Steps
1 - remove glove compartment - attach template to RH side and cut out hole for switch. (in addition drilled holes for AUX port). I disconnected both glove compartment light and aux flashlight power connector. Moved the glove compartment to my workbench to work on it.
2 - remove center vent. easy pulls straight out. Disconnected emergency flash connector, plugged in new cable, plugged in emergency flasher cable into same said cable and routed cables to glove compartment area.
3 - attached single black wire to center block, pin #7 near fuse panel.
4 - plugged white plug into switch to validate its functioning.
5 - cut notch out behind rear door release switch.
6 - installed switch into glove compartment, connected plug.
7 - reinstalled glove compartment and center vent.

Time frame about 2 hours. Not sure how much the dealer would charge to do this. Cost of switch and cables was $42.50

Pictures -
1 - installation in glove compartment of AUX and Rear Hatch Release
2 - wires into center of front AC vents / switch

Oh my! so the trunk release buttom is not standard on X3's. I thought it was standard on all models (except 2000 323 & 2001 325)