BMW X7 Tailgate Malfunction: Sensor Issues and Fixes

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2020 BMW X5 (previously owned an X3 too). I've got some experience working on cars, though I'm not a pro mechanic. Last year, my tailgate was doing exactly what you're describing. After struggling with it for a few days, I took it to my regular workshop. Turned out it was just a loose connection in the wiring harness for the tailgate system. The mechanic fixed the cable connection and recalibrated the system. Cost me around 95 Euro, but it's been working perfectly since then. Before you take it in though, could you tell us if you're hearing any unusual sounds when operating the tailgate? Also, does the error message appear every time, or is it intermittent? This info would help pinpoint if you're dealing with the same issue I had.

Thanks for sharing that! My situation sounds really similar. I've only had this car since new, with 10254 KM on the clock and just finished its latest service. I'm also hearing a slight clicking noise when the tailgate tries to open. The error message shows up out of nowhere, not every single time. I was a bit worried since it's still relatively new, but hearing that yours was just a wiring issue gives me some hope! Did your mechanic mention how common this problem is with BMWs? I might try the same fix at my regular shop.

Hey again! Seeing your mileage and hearing about that clicking noise, I'm even more convinced it's similar to what I experienced. Yes, when I spoke with my mechanic, he mentioned these issues are fairly common in newer BMWs, especially the X series. He'd actually fixed quite a few X7s and X5s with similar symptoms. The clicking sound you're describing is exactly what mine did, it's usually a tell-tale sign of the wiring connection problem. Since your car is newer than mine was when this happened, it might even be covered under warranty. Worth checking that out before paying out of pocket like I did. Just one thing to note, after my mechanic fixed the wiring and recalibrated the system, he advised me to be a bit gentle with the automatic closing feature for the first few days. Something about letting the system properly relearn the movement patterns. Been trouble-free for over a year now, so that advice seemed to help. Let me know how it goes when you get it checked out. I'm curious if it's the same exact issue!

Thanks so much for the detailed follow-up! That's really helpful, especially about being gentle with the system after repairs. I just called my dealer and you're right, they said it should be covered under warranty since I'm still within the first three years. Got an appointment scheduled for next week. The tip about the clicking sound being a common issue in the X series is reassuring. I was worried it might be something major, but now I feel much better about it. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, it's exactly what I needed to know. I'll definitely take it easy with the tailgate once it's fixed, following your mechanic's advice about letting it relearn the patterns. I'll update you after the dealer checks it out. Fingers crossed it's just that wiring connection like yours was. Thanks again for taking the time to help me out with this!