Glove box Question

[Drivingman]

I just purchased a 2011 BMW 328i Convertible and the glove box stays locked all the time. The only way to open it is with the key. I thought unlocking the car would allow the glove box to be opened without using the key. Is the only way to open the glove box with the key or is handle broken?

[pedro2u]

I assume that the convertible glove box locks are the same on most model years. Check your owners manual. On my E46 XHP convertible, the glove box locks when I lock the car to prevent theft and not give thieves access to unlock the trunk. It wasn't working and there are videos on Youtube showing how brittle the wires are on the lock mechanism and how they are prone to breaking off. I had to disassemble the lock mechanism and sure enough mine were broken too. I re soldered and all is now good

[Drivingman]

Thank you. I will check the wires.

[White94RX]

I assume that the convertible glove box locks are the same on most model years. Check your owners manual. On my E46 XHP convertible, the glove box locks when I lock the car to prevent theft and not give thieves access to unlock the trunk. It wasn't working and there are videos on Youtube showing how brittle the wires are on the lock mechanism and how they are prone to breaking off. I had to disassemble the lock mechanism and sure enough mine were broken too. I re soldered and all is now good

Sorry to say, you are not correct. The E93 has a completely different mechanism. It has electronic actuators.

To the original poster, the electronic actuator has failed, which is why it only opens with the blade key. It's super common, I've replaced tons of them. It's not a difficult job, but will likely require purchasing the part from the dealership.

[pedro2u]

Thanks for that correction. I just came across this thread which covers the issue very well (and it's clearly different than the e46

https://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sh...d.php?t=660733