I Need to break into my trunk...

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Goldy

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1981 528i - sedan - the PO had re-aligned the trunk latch - when it clicked shut - the release catch will not disengage from the latch.

My daughter just acquired the car - and we need access to replace a bulb, etc.

We attempted to gain access through teh rear seat - solid steel panel there.......

Does the release catch move forward or rearward when the button is pressed?

Is there a way to "slim-jim" or other method to gain access to the trunk without causing "major" damage?

Thanks in advance for all and any information.

Goldy
 
foomonkey525i

foomonkey525i

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My dad's trunk lock ('98 328i) recently malfunctioned to where he couldn't get in. They talked to the dealer, and what they said had to be done was drill a hole through the trunk lid, right behind the license plate so that it's covered up and not noticeable, and some how they could get into it from there. I recomend talking to a dealer.
 
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epj3

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foomonkey525i said:
My dad's trunk lock ('98 328i) recently malfunctioned to where he couldn't get in. They talked to the dealer, and what they said had to be done was drill a hole through the trunk lid, right behind the license plate so that it's covered up and not noticeable, and some how they could get into it from there. I recomend talking to a dealer.
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Nah that's rediculious, this is an old bmw not a new one. I'm surprised they didnt give you software update instead [rofl]

Anyways - I dont know. The metal panel behind the seat might 'punch out' for the ski-bag access or something. I'd say take it to a euro-mechanic.
 
foomonkey525i

foomonkey525i

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I'm not real sure. I assume they did. I would think so too, but apparently not. They had a lock smith out, and the lock ended up in pieces on the garage floor, but it still wouldn't open.
 
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epj3

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foomonkey525i said:
I'm not real sure. I assume they did. I would think so too, but apparently not. They had a lock smith out, and the lock ended up in pieces on the garage floor, but it still wouldn't open.
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I don't see why a locksmith just couldn't break the tumbler out unless it's all servo-driven like my e34, but I doubt it is on the older 5's (my e30 wasn't servo driven)
 
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Goldy

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locked trunk

A locksmith's POV.

If a locksmith drills out the cylinder - all that accomplishes is the elimination of the need for a key to move the latch mechanism.

When the problem is a mis-aligned latch mechanism - or a disconnected linkage between the lock cylinder and latch mechanism, drilling the cylinder accomplishes nada.

What I have decided to do with my daughter's 528i, is to remove the rear seat, cut an access hole (6" x 6") - this should permit access to the latch with a long rod, stick, what have you, and then I can easily patch the hole and not compromise structural strength or sound/dust proofing.....

There was no pop out panel - like for a ski sock - but that location should work OK....

Thanks for all the ideas.

Goldy
 
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