XSeries-forum

Got into the car today (E53 3.oD 2004) and noticed the handbrake even though in the on/park position had the button completely recessed (not flush with the handle but sitting back inside it).

I let the handbrake off but the button didn't pop out. Played around a bit and got it half out but not fully extended. The handbrake works and when i pull it up it ratchets fine. When I let it down/off it ratchets fine with the exception of the fully off position - it just doesn't make that last click. Presumably that last click of the ratchet and the release button are related.

Thoughts?

Smee

Sounds like the spring has gone in the handle.

repairable? easy to do?

Smee

Dunno sorry.  Being a BMW they would prefer a new one be bought, but it went together so it ought to be fixable. Have a look at RealOEM an see if it comes to bits, or if there are any on line video guides etc.

This page shows what looks like a spring in the middle of the assembly, but I suspect there may be another in the handle itself which needs the handle pulling off.  Looking at piccies on line I cannot see how you can get inside the handle itself.  It looks like a tube which houses a spring and rod with the button on the end and everything pressed into place.

ok, so I understand the spring in a tube in the handle, but what about the last click of the ratchet (on the way down) not clicking - surely that is separate and therefore either something else?

Smee

All
I can think is that somehow the button issue may be causing some sort of fouling?  Until you have it apart it's hard to make an exact diagnosis.  It could be the main spring is broken and causing fouling?

Indeed - anyone know how to remove the handle ......?

Smee

could be un related by on my first x5 2001 the little notches on the hadbrake (abit like cog teeth) wore out the last 2, i re filed them in with a tiny file to fix

So how did you access the cog teeth?

removed all the trim from round the handbrake and it was visable

and centre console

And if I recall correctly centre console removal is not a five minute job .......?