Liftgate Strut Grinding Sound

[gadgetfreak2024]

Hi. Our 2011 50i has suddenly become disinclined to open the trunk / liftgate. It pops open a bit and then seems to encounter a problem and then closes itself. It barely opens at all before that happens. This is whether you release the trunk from the button on the dash, use the key fob or use the popper on the liftgate itself.

I am able to force it to get past that point of resistance and then completely open, but it takes some effort and there is a nastyish grinding sound that occurs as it lifts. I suspect this may be the hydraulic strut on the left side that seems to be making that sound.

Have others encountered this issue before? If so, is it correct that it's usually that strut, and if so, is it straightforward to replace? I looked at FCP Euro and could not find that part, so maybe others have ideas of where else to look?

Appreciate any insights!

[jbash87]

#4 in this diagram.
https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/sho...diagId=41_1756

I have no experience with these being bad but that is just because mine haven't gone bad yet. Based on your description though it sounds like the strut on the left side is broken.

[gadgetfreak2024]

Originally Posted by jbash87

#4 in this diagram.
https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/sho...diagId=41_1756

I have no experience with these being bad but that is just because mine haven't gone bad yet. Based on your description though it sounds like the strut on the left side is broken.

Thanks. That's helpful just to know the terminology too. Will give it a look!