Greetings all,

Recently purchased a 2009 Mini Cooper S. What a great car! I have come across an odd problem and googling has produced some good information but I'd like to double check it here.

The trunk button on my key fob unlocks the rear tailgate and allows me to open it. However, I am unable to open it manually. I found a rubber area in the center of the tailgate that I believe is the switch, but when I press it nothing happens. Can anyone advise as to what is going on, and what the fix is?

Thanks all.

 

I had the same issue. I just bought a new one off outmotoring for $100 bucks. Bolts straight on and now works fine

 

Welcome! Sorry about the bum button. There is just a simple electronic switch under a rubber/weatherproof cover. The entire switch is replaceable and that sounds like what you will need to purchase and replace.

 

I took the 4 torx screws out and now I have a panel that is color matched to the car, that contains the license plate lights and the switch to open the tailgate. It all looks like one panel that does not seem to come apart. There is a plug that comes out of the tailgate that plugs into this unit. This unit appears to be sealed and I do not want to pry it open for fear of breaking it. Is this where the switch resides? Do I have to buy a whole new unit and have it painted to match?

 

I believe the whole panel comes off with a bit for force after the 4 torx are off. As far as the switch goes, you might see more screws once the painted piece comes off.