BMW X3 Tailgate Won't Work, Hall Sensor Fix Needed?

Hi there! I have some experience working with cars and had a very similar issue with my 2010 BMW X5. The tailgate problem is quite frustrating, right? My workshop found that the cable connection to the tailgate sensor was damaged and had a loose connection. They had to replace some wiring and check the plug connections. The whole repair took about 2 hours and cost me 95 Euro. Since then, it's been working perfectly. Could you tell me if you're getting any specific warning lights on your dashboard? Also, does the tailgate make any unusual sounds when you try to operate it? This info would help me understand if you're dealing with the exact same problem I had. If it's the same issue, it's actually a pretty straightforward fix once they locate the faulty connection. Just make sure you go to a workshop that's familiar with BMW electrical systems.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My car has 162260 KM and was just serviced last month. I'm not getting any warning lights on the dashboard, but there's a clicking sound when I press the button. My tailgate just stays completely stuck, won't budge at all. Tried the key fob and the button inside, but nothing works. Interestingly, I can hear the motor trying to work but it just doesn't move. Your wiring solution sounds promising and definitely cheaper than what I was expecting. Was the loose connection visible when they inspected it, or did they need special diagnostic tools to find it?

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details about your X3. After hearing about the clicking sound and the motor trying to work, I'm even more convinced it could be similar to what I experienced with my X5. In my case, the loose connection wasn't immediately visible, the mechanics had to use their diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact location. They actually found that the wiring had gotten slightly frayed over time from the repeated opening and closing motion. The clicking sound you're describing is exactly what mine was doing too! Since your car has 162260 KM, it's probably experiencing the same wear and tear mine had. The good news is that if it is indeed just a wiring issue like mine was, it's a relatively simple fix. The workshop used their BMW-specific diagnostic tool to confirm the exact location of the fault before opening up the tailgate panel. One thing I forgot to mention in my first reply, before taking it to the workshop, I tried disconnecting my car battery for about 10 minutes to reset the system. It didn't fix the problem, but the mechanics told me it was a good troubleshooting step anyway. Have you tried that yet? Let me know what your workshop says when you take it in. I'm really curious to know if it turns out to be the same issue!

Thanks so much for the detailed follow-up! No, I haven't tried disconnecting the battery yet, that's a great suggestion I'll definitely try before heading to the workshop. It's really reassuring to hear that your repair was straightforward and didn't break the bank. The similarity between our issues, especially the clicking sound and the motor trying to work, gives me hope it's just a wiring problem. I've made an appointment with my regular mechanic for next week. I'll make sure to mention your experience with the frayed wiring and ask them to check the connections first before replacing any expensive parts. Really appreciate you taking the time to share all this information, it's definitely helped me feel less worried about the whole situation. I'll update you once I get it checked out! Thanks again for your help!