Today I drove to work, parked, and turned off my heater, lights etc. My hatch popped open. I figured it didn't close all the way and decided to let go after I parked.

Went to the grocery store after work and the rear hatch wouldn't open at all. I figured I had a broken latch/hatch etc. No fun.

Then when I got home, I again turned my lights off, and the hatch opened again. After another half dozen tries, my hatch will ONLY open when I turn my headlights (or parking lights) on, and then off again. It happens every time, and the trunk button on the hatch still does nothing.

I tried unhooking my battery to see if something would reset, to no avail.

Short of tracing wires all over (no idea where I'd really start even) does anyone have any other advice? This is why I've always driven old, carbureted cars. Electrical gremlins are easy to solve...

FYI, it's a late '05 base model.

Any help is appreciated!

 

Short in boot handle...both of those operating systems are located there....take a look for signs of water / corrosion.

 

Thanks! What's the best way to get in there to take a look? Take off interior panels?

 

+1 yes, a short from water getting in there.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...at-s-next.html

 

There are 4 screws holding the handle to the rear hatch underneath by the license plate lights. You'll want to remove those and then detach the electrical connectors for the lights to fully remove the handle. If there is water you can try to let it dry out, but you'll probably want to check the condition of the gasket and replace it if needed. We have it HERE. If needed, rear hatch grips HERE.

 

It's not like a Second Gen MINI....to reach where the wire connector is you have to remove the inner panel. There are 6-7 Phillips head screws.

Here is a how to for removing inner panel. You can see the connecter in the video...

 

Great video find. Its not that hard like Grayraven said, its those clips. Bet those wire are corroded.

 

You guys are awesome! I'll update when it's all fixed.

 

I had the exact same problem, I think because I was cleaning under the handle with a wet paper towel, it's happened before where the latch is erratic but I never had the lights turn off and activate first time I've seen this. So I let it dry checked a few hours later and it worked back to normal. Turning lights on and off no activation of hatch. I inspected the latch rubber button no visible tear or corrosion but this post will be helpful if it ever comes back I can just replace that component.

Thanks

 

FYI: Had a similar problem. Boot door would unlatch when I turned ON the headlights. Once I got it closed it wouldn't unlatch..unless the headlights went on. My shop guy found a short circuit in and replaced the body control module.