[COOLGREANY]

I was vacuuming out the cargo area and the liftgate automatically started closing. The vehicle was unlocked for several hours and I opened the liftgate using the key fob.

My spouse was standing behind me and got beaned (my fault of course).

Anyway, we're wondering if possibly the vehicle sensed one of our feet as a "kick to close" event? Or did the "automatic lock" setting cause it to close?

According to the manual the vehicle can be set up to automatic lock via iDrive:
Apps menu / "Vehicle" / "Doors and
windows" / "Lock" / "Locking and security" /
"Lock after a short time"
The vehicle locks automatically after a short
period of time if no door is opened after un-
locking.

[MontyB1]

Happens all the time, it can be quite sensitive had it numerous times that it suddenly bleeps and starts to close. On the old X1 it was so sensitive it was a recall in some markets to reduce the chance of it happening.

Just have to be careful and ready for it to kick in I find even if not trying to trigger it.

[Tunners]

If the key was in your pocket it is more likely a foot was picked up by the sensor.
I understand the automatic lock is only to lock the car if no doors have been opened ie if you have accidentally pressed the unlock button on the key or digital key.

[COOLGREANY]

Originally Posted by KosticKen

See page 84 of manual.

I've already seen that and have that feature activated (which is why I asked if that "may" have caused it).

[FlashMonkey929]

Originally Posted by COOLGREANY

I was vacuuming out the cargo area and the liftgate automatically started closing. The vehicle was unlocked for several hours and I opened the liftgate using the key fob.

My spouse was standing behind me and got beaned (my fault of course).

Anyway, we're wondering if possibly the vehicle sensed one of our feet as a "kick to close" event? Or did the "automatic lock" setting cause it to close?

According to the manual the vehicle can be set up to automatic lock via iDrive:
Apps menu / "Vehicle" / "Doors and
windows" / "Lock" / "Locking and security" /
"Lock after a short time"
The vehicle locks automatically after a short
period of time if no door is opened after un-
locking.

It was most likely the kick sensor, as others have said. I've had it triggered by a hose moving under the car while washing it, a stray cat running under the car, stray balls from neighborhood kids, etc. Doesn't happen often, but it doesn't bother me enough to disable the feature.

It will NOT close due to the auto lock feature, it only activates the locks, it won't close anything for you.

[COOLGREANY]

Thanks all. I suspected the kick sensor but in the past, the sensor has been picky and I've had to do a "quick kick" to trigger the sensor. While vacuuming, I was pretty much stationary (or so I thought).

[tex2670]

I didn't realize you could kick to close - I thought it was only open

[COOLGREANY]

Originally Posted by tex2670

I didn't realize you could kick to close - I thought it was only open

Yes, works both ways. Using that feature does not make you a "dick head" as others may have implied.

[COOLGREANY]

Originally Posted by KosticKen

This what https://www.federalregister.gov/docu...-panel-systems says about it. If IDrive or anything else within the vehicle is acting upon itself to operate the windows, sun roof or tailgate, either inadvertently or purposefully, outside of the vicinity or control of the vehicle operator then that is in clear breach of the Safety Regulation.

According to your link that's a "Proposed Rule by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on 09/01/2009 "

If you feel that feature is a breach of a "current" safety regulation, report it to the appropriate local authorities.

[FlashMonkey929]

Originally Posted by KosticKen

OKAY! then see:https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-4...ection-571.118

Apologies over the "dick head" quip no insult intended, just my sense of humour, perhaps your spouse could suggest a better term having been "beaned".

I skimmed over the link, but from what I can see, none of it mentions the tailgate, or a door for that matter. It specifically references roof panels, windows, and partitions.

[FlashMonkey929]

Originally Posted by KosticKen

True, but I think the best place to decide whether it applies to the tailgate would be the courts should it cause serious harm.

Technology moves on and the problems follow. There are now some very serious questions been asked about touch panels and distracting connectivity in automobiles for instance. Just search "distracting technology in cars" for instance.

In any case there are similar regulation in both EU, US and probably most others that refer to any 'powered closure' whether they be on a car or not. There are many vehicles (e.g. buses) including some cars which have powered doors other than tailgate so there must be regulations somewhere regarding them.

Incidently have you tried putting a soft toy (or your arm) in the side of the tailgate whilst it closes? I have just tried it on an X3-G01 and it didn't stop and reverse.

Enough said - Like smoking I can only suggest and leave it to the individual to decide whether they use it or not. Either that or just mind my own business.

I agree, the interface seems to be moving away from focusing on driving. While I do like new technology, in general it should be implemented to improve usability and safety, and touchscreen only controls are probably not the best for that. As far as regulations go though, it just seems like a constant game of tag. There’s a saying I’ve heard: “If you make something idiot proof, they’ll just build a bigger idiot”.

[tex2670]

Originally Posted by KosticKen

In the UK, EU and elsewhere the regulation clearly say that power operated equipment should not be operated inadvertently or purposely unless the operator has a clear view of them.
3 weeks ago this happened when the shop shutters were raised by someone who could not see them.

BBC presenter and estimated 95% of social media thought it was funny.
If she had fallen on her head from 6ft I don't think they would.
I don't know if the shop owners were prosecuted, they should be INMHO.

Why did she have to hold onto her cart?

[COOLGREANY]

Originally Posted by KosticKen

Enough said - Like smoking and bungee jumping I can only suggest and leave it to the individual to decide whether it is just a gimmick and if they use it. Either that or just mind my own business.

Good advice so no other input needed.

[MontyB1]

Originally Posted by KosticKen

BBC presenter is laughing and estimated 95% of social media thought it was funny.
If she had fallen on her head from 6ft I don't think they would.
I don't know if the shop owners were prosecuted, they should be INMHO.
Take care everybody!, Accidents can happen even when you are cleaning out your car boot.

She worked there, surely as an employee she should know not to lean against the shutters that have to open before she can get into her place of employment. Two sides to every story, video, photo as ever.

Can’t legislate for stupidity, but for the many from the US and the many many silly notifications it seems they try to.