XSeries-forum

Hi all,

Searched the forum but couldn't find answers to my question.

I have an E53 4.8 54 reg. When open the boot lid, it doesn't stay open and falls down, I suspect it's the hydraulics arms but before I take it to dealer/independent, can anyone suggest a DIY fix, if there's any?

Regards,

Sounds like the gas struts have failed, or at least one of them has. It would only need one to have leaked and the lid will no longer have enough support. Try propping the glass open with a length of wood, and carefully removing the connection at one end of each (one only at a time) and seeing if you can move the strut by hand. It should stay extended by the gas pressure, but if not then that one needs replacing. They are not repairable as far as I know.

Beware that if the strut is released it may want to extend a little further than it is whenthe upper hatch is open, but nit by very much, hence the handling with care. Taking the bottom end off is probably safer than the top in case the strut does try to extend and goes through the rear screen!!

Instructions for the upper lid here: http://tis.spaghetticoder.org/s/view.pl?1/05/93/95. Obviously you're not going to need to remove the lid itself

Thanks X5Sport for such a prompt response

I'll take a look at the instructions but it doesn't look like a job for my limited DIY skills

You should only need to disconnect the struts. The rest is for removing the lid - which you aren't doing. I think they just clip on simply to a ball joint or similar. Can't check comparing the X6 as it has power struts.

You could try propping the lid up and seeing if one of the struts is loose compared to the other?

Indeed, will definitely take a look anyway. Thanks.

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the struts might as well be changed as pair £40ish, google them theres loads of companys that do them, its an easy diy job but be warned when you get the lifters off the boot is VERY VERY heavy to the point that you will struggle to hold it up i was shocked!!!

The tip has to be to buy them first - along with a length of 4x2 - and then change em.....