BMW 5 Series Hybrid Tailgate Won't Open, Sensor Issue?

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2017 BMW 7 Series Hybrid last year. The symptoms were exactly the same, faulty tailgate operation and an error message. Took it to my regular workshop, and turns out it was just a loose cable connection to the tailgate sensor. The mechanic found that the wiring harness had some wear and wasn't making proper contact. Total fix was 95 Euro, mostly labor costs for tracking down the issue and reconnecting everything properly. Works like a charm now. Before I say more, could you share the specific error code you're getting? Also, does your tailgate make any unusual sounds when trying to operate it? This info would help determine if you're dealing with the same problem I had. BTW, assuming you've got the 530e? They're great cars, but these little electrical gremlins can pop up sometimes.

Thanks for your reply! Yeah, mine's the 530e, just had its service last month at 112604 KM. You might be onto something with the wiring, I'm getting this weird clicking sound when trying to operate the tailgate, and the error code is P1B9A. The clicking happens about 3-4 times before it just stops trying completely. Would you mind sharing what kind of wiring harness your mechanic replaced? I'm thinking of showing these details to my mechanic when I take it in, just to save some diagnostic time. It's been super annoying, especially when my hands are full with groceries and stuff.

Hey again! Yeah, after you mentioned that clicking sound and the P1B9A code, I'm even more convinced it's similar to what I dealt with. In my case, the clicking was actually the motor trying to engage but failing because of the poor connection, pretty much exactly like what you're describing. For the wiring harness, mine needed the main trunk lid wiring harness replaced, it's the one that runs from the body to the tailgate through those rubber boots. My mechanic showed me where it had gotten pinched and worn down over time from all the opening and closing. The clicking in my case was happening because the system kept trying to read the sensor but couldn't get a consistent signal due to the damaged wires. Since you're getting the same symptoms, I'd bet good money it's the same issue. The repair isn't too complex, but you definitely want a proper mechanic handling it to make sure all the connections are sealed right, learned that the hard way when I first tried poking around myself! Quick tip: while you're waiting to get it fixed, try closing the tailgate manually with a bit more force (not too much though). Sometimes that helped mine complete the cycle when it was acting up. Just a temporary workaround until you can get it properly sorted. Let me know how it goes when you get it checked out, curious to hear if it's the same problem!

Thanks so much for all this detailed info! Just got back from the mechanic and you were absolutely right, it was the wiring harness issue. They found wear in almost exactly the same spot you described, where it flexes when the tailgate moves. The clicking was indeed the motor trying but failing to engage properly because of the damaged wiring. Cost me a bit more than yours though, 180 Euro total with parts and labor. But honestly, I'm just happy it's fixed! The tailgate's working perfectly now, no more awkward struggles with groceries or error messages popping up. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, saved me a lot of headache and probably some money too since the mechanic knew exactly where to look. And that tip about closing it manually while it was broken really helped in the meantime! Think I'll keep an eye on that wiring area during future services, just to catch any wear before it becomes a problem again. Thanks again for all your help!