[xdragon]

Is there anyone else having problem getting the hands free trunk release to work? Or is it just me?

It only worked twice since I picked up my 328 two weeks ago. Now no matter how I kick it, just won't open.

[Photoman]

I haven't had a problem...
Try to stand right behind the license plate and a short and quick kick straight ahead.

[Spikey]

It seems a bit hit and miss... as there's a technique?

discussed here as well...
http://www.f30post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=685836

[dcg71]

I also found it difficult at first. I think what photoman said is the way to go. Find a nice non-public place and practice your technique

[xdragon]

Originally Posted by dcg71

I also found it difficult at first. I think what photoman said is the way to go. Find a nice non-public place and practice your technique

Hehe, was embarrassed trying to show off this trick in a shopping centre car park.

[dcg71]

haha yeah, I've had a few moments like that. Was showing it off to a friend today though and managed to get it first time.

[Dabaitu]

Ok, I've got the technique for this sorted.

My colleague took delivery of his 328i last weekend (mines still getting its compliance done - long story ), and was talking about how three people at the dealership were all standing around trying to figure out how to make it work. Truly a Kodak moment

Anyway, we went downstairs to the building carpark and I think I've figured it out. I stuck my head under the car to look for a sensor and couldn't see anything. Then I figured it's probably either using the reversing sensors or rear camera. I'm guessing the parking sensors rather than the camera as it's an option (and I can't recall if you have to take the camera if you take CA).

Initially, we stood right behind the tail of the car and were busy thrusting our feet under the bumper to very limited success. Then, inspiration took hold and I had my mate move the car out of the car park (it was reversed in, tail to the wall), and instead walked toward the car from a couple of meters away before placing the foot underneath.

Worked every time.

So, good doctors, I'm hypothesising that the act of appoaching to the car is a requirement for the boot release option to work and thought I'd share to others who may have written this option off as a bit dodgy.

[xdragon]

not standing too close to the tail is the key.

[Ectopic]

I think you're onto something! approaching the car and immediately sticking your foot out once you're within range seems to help.

Originally Posted by Dabaitu

Ok, I've got the technique for this sorted.

My colleague took delivery of his 328i last weekend (mines still getting its compliance done - long story ), and was talking about how three people at the dealership were all standing around trying to figure out how to make it work. Truly a Kodak moment

Anyway, we went downstairs to the building carpark and I think I've figured it out. I stuck my head under the car to look for a sensor and couldn't see anything. Then I figured it's probably either using the reversing sensors or rear camera. I'm guessing the parking sensors rather than the camera as it's an option (and I can't recall if you have to take the camera if you take CA).

Initially, we stood right behind the tail of the car and were busy thrusting our feet under the bumper to very limited success. Then, inspiration took hold and I had my mate move the car out of the car park (it was reversed in, tail to the wall), and instead walked toward the car from a couple of meters away before placing the foot underneath.

Worked every time.

So, good doctors, I'm hypothesising that the act of appoaching to the car is a requirement for the boot release option to work and thought I'd share to others who may have written this option off as a bit dodgy.

[bcoz]

According to the Trunk video from the BMW USA Owners portal, you have to "simply put your foot underneath the rear bumper, and then pull back" (begins at 00:28s)...

http://www.bmwusa.com/Standard/Conte...8-0c5129ff9e56

In the video the trunk doesn't open until the guy moves slightly away (it seems to be a safety feature so the lid doesn't hit you if you stand too close).

[dcg71]

Another way to do it is to jack up the car using the centre rear jack point (diff cover) whist having your keys in your pocket. Motion of pumping the jack handle inadvertantly causes the trunk to open. Scared the bejesus out of me.