Strange central locking problem

[k3ab]

Every 3rd or 4th time the passanger side door fails to unlock when opening the car from the key or simply pressing the lock / unlock button in the car.

On occasion the little bugger will work just fine for the entire day (sometimes even two) but more often than not it doesn't unlock.

I don't know how the central locking system works but it almost seems like it is a hydrolic based system and not enough pressure is being sent to the lock. If it fails to unlock once it will most probably unlock just fine the next time which is what is leading me to believe that it is hydrolics based i.e. enough pressure builds up after failing to unlock once.

I am half tempted to open it up and have a look, perhaps there's something trivial that could be resolved without having the dealer look at it which I'm sure will result in hundreds of pounds of expense.

Has anyone had a similar issue?

 

[AlanJ]

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=BT12&mospid=47795&btnr=41_1477&hg=41&fg=40

Look like a mechanical system from the OEM link so maybe a lazy solenoid operating the mechanical linkages.

 

[007-Z4]

Hi,

Well I have the same issue! Behavior is same, weird for sure :headbang: So, I just put my key in and lock it when it happens!!!! Let me know if you find out or if I do if I can ever get to the dealer.

Bob

 

[Newyorkmikey]

Keep your fingers crossed it wasn't my issue - a faulty relay on the central computer. Meaning the whole central computer had to be replaced (naturally).

http://www.z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=11594

 

[k3ab]

The issue is on the passanger's side so it hasn't bothered me enough to take it in to be looked at just yet.

I have to admit I am a bit worried that it is going to be something major.

I can't believe crap the build quality is. You'd not get such problems on a TT.

 

[007-Z4]

Hi ,

Quick update the locking Mech is working now via key, I hope it is not what you are saying regarding relay/CPU replacement!
Without sounding stupid, I have other gremlins like radio not turning on, turn car off and then it works, I have had the front lights come on after locking the car, maybe it is the CPU, does anybody know what this part looks like?

Maybe its time for new car :thumbsdown:

Thanks,
Bob

 

[007-Z4]

Hi,'

Update on my locking problem, BMW dealer replaced the plunger that pushes the lock up and down, BMW labor rate is like 3.4 hours flat plus part, I do not have the bill yet, but I am so happy I bought the extended warranty, just a 75.00 deductible is all I will have to pay;-)

On another note: I went to start my car this morning and had the click of death, it was the battery, this was the original battery, 7 years old, can't complain about that, so that is why I decided I should have them also look at the lock problem many have posted about, the main computer did not need to be replaced, just the mentioned plunger.

So for those who have the similar problem with the locking, hopefully it is just your electrical plunger, better than a new CPU

Bob

 

[007-Z4]

Hi all---

Update, Well after replacing the door actuator, The lock is still doing the same thing. Back to the Dealer, now they replaced the GM Module, I now find out that the Relay's that are built into the GM Module are the culprit, hence they replace mine.
Another 700.00, again thank goodness for extended warranty!!!!!

Bob

 

[k3ab]

unbelievable.

 

[k3ab]

who is your extended warranty with? bmw?