Convertible top not operable on my 05 vert. I noticed that a part, I assume, to the latch is broken on right side. It is somewhat near the latch about 6"-12" away from it attached to some sort of track mechanism. Could anyone identify it and provide a solution that won't cost as much as the NASA space shuttle?

Looks like a part of the latch mechanism.

http://www.ecstuning.com/Mini-2006-C...oof/ES158842/#

 

Kinda hard to tell from the photo but here's a link to exploded views that may help identify what you are looking for.
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/partgrp.d...id=48019&hg=54

Also,
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...wont-open.html

Some repairs to the rail system are DIY. Hope this is one of them.

 

I think you correct of that pair is the correct part.


Click HERE for the top Linkage pair. OEM part number: 54347174763

Do you have a better picture of the part that broke? From the bottom with lighting would help.

Thanks

 

Can I replace that myself or is it best left to the dealer? Can an indie Mini shop do change the part as well. Maybe not the dealer because they'll tell me to replace the cassette mechanism too.

 

Do you have a better pic to confirm its that part?

You can do it yourself but it will require some taking apart of the front of the main cassette side.

Top plastic trim, side interior plastic trim, then take off the front gate. Then you can bolt the front on and slide the rear section into place. Its easy when you have the top in sunroof position just when the convertible top starts to go back.

If you are not mechanically inclined a MINI dealership can do it.

 

It looks like the plastic part inserted where the brass colored ring is

 

That's it then. They are sold in pairs only. Does you top just lock on one side when closed then?

Otherwise good luck with the fix and I hope you get the top working again , spring will be here soon.

Thanks

 

Yes only the driver's side is locked and passenger side looks unlatched but currently top is closed so luckily no leaks.
.

 

Then that the part you need. If you need anything else let us know and good luck with the fix.

Thanks

 

Since you have a 2005 convertible, it's worth checking out whether the latches you have are identical to the ones you linked to in your first post.

In the latches you linked to, do you see the little pin sticking out from the silver part? That pin wasn't on the earlier convertibles, and I don't think the version with the pin will work on a car that originally had the earlier latches, unless you also replace a few other parts on the car. Or, you might just be able to grind the pin down.

I think the earlier "pin-less" latches have been discontinued, and every replacement latch set I've seen has had the pins, even if I search by VIN number using the VIN from a 2005 that I know had the earlier latches.