Tailgate struts

[Davidfbmw]

Hi all, the tailgate on our s213 won’t stay open and slams down
Think the struts have gone
How can I stop it coming down whilst I change them, can hear motor going trying to close it as soon as it opens
Thanks Dave

 

[oigle]

A good old fashioned prop??

 

[Davidfbmw]

A good old fashioned prop??

Will it not damage the motor trying to close it

 

[M80]

Will it not damage the motor trying to close it

Surely the motor would disengage while open.
Or is that the problem, is the car seeing the tailgate as open?

 

[Davidfbmw]

A good old fashioned prop??

Surely the motor would disengage while open.
Or is that the problem, is the car seeing the tailgate as open?

Not sure but I can hear the motor trying to close it
Think it disengages when it’s fully up
Try the struts and if they’re ok there’s another problem somewhere

 

[brandwooddixon]

Replacing gas struts doesn't take long and can be done one handed with care.
Otherwise have a helper to hold the boot lid fully open or as suggested use a suitable prop e.g. broom handle.
The motor should time out and stop closing the boot if an obstruction is detected.