Body - Rear Lid Hard To Open/Close
55 08 042001878/3
November 26, 2008.
Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 55 number 07-02 dated March 1, 2007 for reasons listed below.
55 Trunk lid stiff
Condition
Rear lid is difficult to open and close or remains in various positions. (Gas-filled struts do not open lid automatically.)
Technical Background
Not applicable.
Production Solution
Not applicable.
Service
For vehicles within the model years listed above, lubricate rear lid hinges at all pivot points with Universal oil Part No: G 000 115 A2 as follows:
Figure 1:
NOTE: The application tube (Figure 1) must be used in the spray nozzle to accurately apply the oil.
Figure 2:
Rear lid hinge cover, removing
- Open rear lid.
- Remove cover (Figure 2, Point 3) from hinge lever (Figure 2, Point 2) on left/right sides (if applicable).
Figure 3:
Gas-filled strut, removing
- Using a screwdriver, push back retaining springs (Figure 3, Point 1) slightly at both ends of gas-filled struts and remove strut (Figure 3, Point 2).
NOTE: When removing or installing the gas-filled strut, push back the opened rear lid slightly beyond its normal position, being careful not to damage components.
Figure 4:
Hinge joints, lubricating
With gas struts removed: Prior to applying Universal Oil on 4 hinge pivot points of each hinge:
- Shake Universal oil spray can roughly 5 times. Do not shake the spray can too hard or too long. (This causes the oil to foam and will reduce its ability to penetrate the hinges.)
NOTE: To ensure that the oil penetrates into the hinge mechanisms thoroughly, they should have a temperature of at least 30 degree C (approximately 86 degree F to 110 degree F) in the area around the hinges.
- If necessary, using a suitable heat gun, heat hinges in the area around pivot points to 30 degree C - 40 degree C (86 degree F - 110 degree F).
- Spray a coating of oil on all pivot points (Figure 4).
- Open and close rear lid (fully) approximately 15 times.
- Apply a second coating of oil to all pivot points.
- Open and close rear lid (fully) approximately 15 more times.
To prevent condition (stiffness) from returning to hinges and to ensure long-term protection against corrosion:
- Repeat complete lubrication process at least 3 times.
- Clean hinges and surrounding bodywork to remove excess oil.
Gas-filled strut, installing
- Clip in gas-filled strut (Figure 3, Point 2) at bottom first, then at top.
- Install with tube end of strut at rear lid.
Rear lid hinge cover, installing
- From below, attach cover (Figure 2, Point 3) for rear lid hinge between gas-filled strut (Figure 2, Point 5) and hinge lever, and clip onto hinge lever (Figure 2, Point 2) at top so it engages audibly.
- Insert wiring and tubing for central locking system (Figure 2, Point 4) into lower recess of cable guide at cover (Figure 2, Point 1).
NOTE: Rear lid hinge joints on affected vehicles should be treated (when necessary) at each service interval with Universal Oil Part No. G 000 115A2.
All parts and service references provided in this TSB are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Department and service manuals for the latest information.