Glovebox Latch is broken 535i

[Cody.07/18]

I tried opening my glovebox today while driving the car. It disintegrated.

I didn't even put that much pressure on it. I guess the plastic molding around the hinge parts couldn't take it anymore. How can I get the glovebox open without a handle? how do I fix the handle? Am I going to need to buy a new glovebox, or can I just get the handle assembly?

My insurance info and a bunch of other stuff is in there and I can't get it open.

[jehu]

have you tried popping the two clasps at the rear and seeing if that allows you to wiggle the tabs free? New latches are pretty readily available on ebay etc.

[Cody.07/18]

yeah thats the first thing i tried. there's no give. it's locked in there.

[fo3]

yeah thats the first thing i tried. there's no give. it's locked in there.

You should be able to get it open. I had the opposite problem as when I slammed it shut the catch and handle fell apart. I was able to get it all back together and working properly without a single tool, it just pieces together in a certain way like a puzzle so the catch is in multiple parts that can come apart easily.

[demetk]

I was able to get mine open by wedging a screwdriver right here.

[jehu]

I think I once did this also from the left side of the glove box not the latch handle after pulling it away some a very long flat head screwdriver to depress the tab

I was able to get mine open by wedging a screwdriver right here.

[schwecke]

CODY, had the same thing happen to my 740iL. YouTube has a video on glovebox opening without any tools! I used it and it works!
From the front latch mechanism, place your hand on it and then move your hand directly towards the back of the glovebox to where there is a small opening. A small cable should be in this opening and to the right side. I managed to get the cable looser and then proceeded to pull down on it with the glovebox door popping open. Works everytime! Now to get my latch assembled

[theBMWbeast]

The e38 and e34 unfortunately don’t share a glovebox. Luckily, the e34 is even simpler, as all the latch does is actuate the metal hook/lever. Once you understand this, it should be easy to get it open. Try pushing the glovebox up while opening if it feels stuck.