After Market Rear Door Release?
 

I've seen this mentioned a few times on some other forums, but was curious if anybody had a link to a recommneded product that allows the driver to automotically open the book door/hatch from the driver's seat....I'm not talking about unlocking the door but rather a release that opens the door.

thanks

There's one available from the dealer called a "trunk release switch". It allows you to open the trunk while the vehicle is at a standstill, or traveling less than 5 mph. It's a relatively simple DIY which I've done. Unfortunately, I don't have access to a catalog right now to get you the part number.

thanks Alpine Rasta.....Is this something i can have the dealer do when the car arrives? (expecting it Mid June)

where does the switch go? I assume it's just a mechanism that unlocks/opens the latch, and then gravity opens the door....but how much wiring does it require?

The dealer can install it, or you can. It's supposed to go in the glove compartment, but that's a bit inconvenient, so I installed it in the passenger footwell as the wiring wasn't long enough for it to extend to the driver's side. Retrospectively, I probably could've spliced the wiring and placed it wherever I wanted to. I'll take a pic when I get home (I'll also post the part number for you). As far as wiring goes, the instructions are pretty straightforward, and it's plug 'n' play. The only challenging part of the installation was removing the glove compartment, and even that was pretty easy. All you need are a couple of screwdrivers and a Dremel(?) tool.

Thanks AR...always helpful
i'll look for your pics/posting later.

i think i'll call my dealer about this...I didn't see it in the accessories catalogue, but maybe i missed it

where would you think the ideal spot for the switch would be?
the glove box...at least it's out of sight

Why are you adverse to just pushing the button on the key?

Pics, as promised......
 

Here are a couple of pics of the switch. It's in fact called the "Rear Hatch Internal Release Switch," and the part number is: 61 31 0 394 831. I installed it in the front passenger footwell. It's meant to be installed in the glove compartment adjacent to the location of the Aux. input. I guess you could choose what location would work best for you, provided that the dealer's willing to install it there, and that the wiring is long enough.
Hope this helps! GL!

thanks alpine, looks good

white....i've not yet seen my key chain....didn't realize there was a release on the key itself....Does it do the same thing, or simply unlock the door?

Yup. There's a button on the key that does the same thing, but for some reason, mine doesn't work if the key's in the ignition, or just in the car itself without being in the ignition. That was my main reason for installing the switch.

gotcha rasta.
i guess i'll have to check mine out when i take delivery....if it works, that does seem a suitable option (the key chain)

Might you have a "faulty" key set?