BMW 3-series convertible, Complete Vehicle Workbook

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E93 Complete Vehicle Workbook
Central Locking System
The central locking system has been adapted to the specific requirements of the Convertible. In addition to the basic functions of locking
the doors, lids and flaps, two further functions have been added: automatic locking and opening of the glove compartment and the storage
compartment in the center console. These functions are necessary for the purpose of providing a safe place to store objects with the
hardtop open.
Glove Compartment Locking
The glove compartment is unlocked by electrical means. The reason for this is that a knee airbag is installed in US vehicles. The knee
airbag is located in the lid to the glove compartment.
The opener is located on the left on the glove compartment lid. The lid must be locked on both sides to ensure the resulting forces can
be transmitted in the event of the knee airbag triggering.
Opening Glove Compartment
The opener is raised slightly to open the glove compartment. A microswitch sends a signal to the junction box which, in turn, activates an
actuator motor in the glove compartment. The actuator motor with the gear mechanism pulls back the two locking rods so that the glove
compartment lid can be opened.
The power supply to the actuator motor is cut after a short time and the locking rods extend again.
Closing Glove Compartment
The ends of the locking rods are beveled. When closing the lid, the rods are pressed against a spring. When the lid is closed, the spring
force pushes the locking rods back into the lock openings thus locking the glove compartment lid.
Locking Glove Compartment
The hotel switch is located in the glove compartment. The hotel switch can prevent unauthorized opening of the boot lid. For this
purpose, the glove compartment is locked with the mechanical key at the lock barrel.
Emergency Release of Glove Compartment
In the event of the battery discharging or being defective, the glove compartment can be opened with the mechanical key.