Stuck roof override

[bldrbimmer]

My roof is stuck closed and I'm getting a 00A68D error code "Hall Sensor Cowl". The sensor is OK but the wire to it is broken from flexing every time the roof is opened and closed.

I need to partially open the roof in order to get to the broken wire but it won't budge. I know there's a way to override the ECM and open it, but I don't know what it is.

Anybody know???

Thanks,
Kirk '09 Z4 35i

[cruisingdownthestreet]

Originally Posted by bldrbimmer

My roof is stuck closed and I'm getting a 00A68D error code "Hall Sensor Cowl". The sensor is OK but the wire to it is broken from flexing every time the roof is opened and closed.

I need to partially open the roof in order to get to the broken wire but it won't budge. I know there's a way to override the ECM and open it, but I don't know what it is.

Anybody know???

Thanks,
Kirk '09 Z4 35i

i don't have an answer but if a quote to get it fix surpasses $1,500 a note to myself would be to DEFINITELY buy extended warranty.

[jparnes1]

I had this same code 2 months ago but my roof was stuck halfway open. The code just said Hall Sensor Cowl and I only found out about the broken wire after I brought it in. There is no manual override for the roof like in the E85/6 so you can't move the roof. Brought it in and the wire was soldered and new shrink tubing applied. $500

[NoQuarter]

Wow.

I wonder if it is as simple that the service techs manually engage the hydrolic pump?

The same way one can make the starter motor turn the engine, can we just activate the pump?

That said, there is an electric locking mechanism that would have to be activated as well.

[bigendbob]

Where is this broken wire, is it where the wires are bent as the rear window shell moves over the roof shell.

[bldrbimmer]

I don't yet know the exact location of the break. It is somewhere within the bundle tied to the mechanism on the right side, most likely at a hinge point.

The override, of which I've read just rumors, is electronic, maybe through the OBD port. You don't want to just turn on the hydraulic pump because the hydraulic cylinders (rams) need to be operated in specific sequence. The roof ECM needs to control the process.

I have an appointment at the dealer. It's a three week wait to get in. It kills me that I can't fix a simple broken wire myself!

[NoQuarter]

See if you can get specifics on how they intend to open the roof.

[jparnes1]

Originally Posted by bigendbob

Where is this broken wire, is it where the wires are bent as the rear window shell moves over the roof shell.

Yes, exactly. Fatigue over the years causes the wire to break.

[jparnes1]

Originally Posted by bldrbimmer

I have an appointment at the dealer. It's a three week wait to get in.

Wow, 3 weeks. Good thing your roof isn't stuck in the open position. Try an indy shop.

[rking117]

Originally Posted by NoQuarter

Wow.

I wonder if it is as simple that the service techs manually engage the hydrolic pump?

The same way one can make the starter motor turn the engine, can we just activate the pump?

That said, there is an electric locking mechanism that would have to be activated as well.

No there are locking clamps that engage when closed that need to be unlocked before it will move. I do know the dealer has a way to open close them because i test drove one that malfunctioned on me.

[rking117]

Originally Posted by bldrbimmer

My roof is stuck closed and I'm getting a 00A68D error code "Hall Sensor Cowl". The sensor is OK but the wire to it is broken from flexing every time the roof is opened and closed.

I need to partially open the roof in order to get to the broken wire but it won't budge. I know there's a way to override the ECM and open it, but I don't know what it is.

Anybody know???

Thanks,
Kirk '09 Z4 35i

Once you find out please post the location of the wire that is broken. This would be something we all need to double check.