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      02-21-2012, 11:25 PM   #1
dwjones999
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Trailer Hitch/Bike Rack and Power Tailgate

I want to install a trailer hitch and bike rack but am concerned about the power tailgate. I have read here that it can open forcefully. The issue is that at some point by accident I will press the button to open the tailgate while my bike rack is on. Can I keep the tailgate from opening so far that it hits the bike rack? Ideally I would disable this feature so that the tailgate is not opened by the motors but only when I lift it by hand. The 2013 models will all have power tailgates as standard equipment. I have a roof rack now on my 330i but don't want to keep worrying about going into my garage with the bike still on top. One thought I had was to pad the bike rack post that would be hit by the tailgate so that the damage would be lessened.
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      02-22-2012, 11:59 AM   #2
Markap
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On my 2011 there is an option in idrive where I can select how far the tailgate opens
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      02-22-2012, 12:17 PM   #3
dwjones999
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Thanks for your response. I looked in the owner's manual after your reply and I see this feature, but it doesn't state what your choice are. Do you know if the tailgate can be adjusted to only open a few inches? Much more than this and it would hit the rack.

I should have mentioned in my original post that I haven't ordered my X3 yet. As much as I want an X3, I have considered a sedan simply for the reason that I wouldn't have to worry about the tailgate hitting the bike rack. I should also mention that I sometime ride my bike 7 days a week so this a pretty big deal to me.
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      02-22-2012, 12:58 PM   #4
JSY
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You can adjust it in 4 or 5 different levels but from your description, I am thinking even the lowest level would still be way too much for what you are describing.

That being said, I did test it out and it does stop rising when it meets light-medium resistance. However, where you need it the most from what it sounds like - right when it opens - I think is the part where it does swing open quick and harder before it's more subtle as it rises.

Is it still an option item on the 28i? When I got my 35i I think it was either standard or included in one the convenience package. However, I thought on the 28i it was an option (but they were running a promotion where they would reimburse you back for ordering the auto-tailgate I think). I don't know if it's standard.

If it is not, then I guess the easy solution would be to not order it the option. lol
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      02-22-2012, 01:51 PM   #5
Markap
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It's part of the convenience package on the 2.8. I'll check in the next day or so on the min opening and try to post a pic
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      02-22-2012, 03:40 PM   #6
dwjones999
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JSY-thanks for all the details. I agree that not ordering it makes sense, but I will probably not order the car until 2013 models are out and then the power tailgate will be standard on the X3 28i.

Markap-thanks for doing that. I'd be very interested to see the minimum opening distance.
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      02-22-2012, 08:25 PM   #7
GBMW6612
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I am not sure what bike rack you are using but with my hitch install my rack sticks out far enough that with it installed I can still open my hatch and it does not hit the rack. Only an issue with a bike is on the rack, Also the hatch release is put up in an area that I do not think you would accidentally push it.
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      02-22-2012, 09:22 PM   #8
JSY
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Quote:
Originally Posted by GBMW6612 View Post
Also the hatch release is put up in an area that I do not think you would accidentally push it.
I used to think that having it near the footwell was a dumb place to put it but now I'm thankful as it is very difficult to accidentally push.
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      02-22-2012, 11:27 PM   #9
dwjones999
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So it sounds like I won't accidentally hit the release button very easily. That's good news.

GBMW6612-can you tell me the make of bike rack that you have? I don't have a hitch yet so I don't have that kink of bike rack but could use suggestions.
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      02-23-2012, 05:40 PM   #10
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I have a Thule I will double check on the exact model and post. I think you will be ok with whatever rack you use based on the hitch setup from BMW. I have the BMW hitch and when you install the hitch on the car it sticks out a little then when you install the rack it does not insert very far into the receiver. I have a rack that you leave the wheels on the bike so I am not sure if that matters. I will take a picture the next time I have the bike on the car.
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      02-23-2012, 05:44 PM   #11
GBMW6612
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I have the Thule 990xt double track.
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      02-24-2012, 02:19 PM   #12
dwjones999
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I looked at that rack on line and see what you mean about how far out it is from the receiver. I would like to see a pic of this on the X3. Thanks for your help with this.
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