Front Compartment

[merk1106]

I was hoping for some advice/help. I just picked up my K1200LT from the dealer after getting the 600 mile oil change done. I also had them install a cb/intercom. They put the helmet cord in the front storage compartment and I believe it got caught up in the latch device. I cannot open the compartment to access the cb control. I have tried the lock in both positions and cannot push the lock down in either position. I have tried to gently pry the lid open with a piece of rubber and a screwdriver, but that didn't work either. I would really hate to have to drive all the way back to the dealer, if I don't have to. But it's looking more like that's what I'll have to do. Unless someone has any other ideas I could try. Not that I wouldn't mind the 100 mile round trip on a relatively new bike...it's just that I'd rather be riding the back roads than the super highway through Milwaukee. Thanks in advance.

[jzeiler]

Try the key at 45 degrees (or half way in either direction). That should do it.

[Big_E]

Make sure the key is in the unlock position, lock the bike with the remote, hold light pressure on the lock with your finger while unlocking with the remote.

[GSinNC]

I assume you are referring to the sting ray cover where the CD player resides.... that cover will not work with the 45 degree trick that will open the other bags. Did you have the security system set? I had the very same problem on my '05 but luckily it happened AT the dealer when I was picking up after service. After a lot of fussing they got the cover open and ultimately had to replace the security system catch that locks it. The cover would work fine until you set the alarm .... but once the alarm we set it would not open. Since I do not use the security system they just ordered the parts and I brought it back 2 weeks later to have it repaired under warranty.

Hope this helps.

[hschisler]

My '05 LT fights with me every time I open the front compartment. I usually win, but not until after a real tussle and a few choice words. I've read other similar threads.

After 9 months it does seem to be getting better. When it was new, I had to make a fist and pound it against the lock mechanism. I've gotten better at it -- or the latch is loosening up -- and I can poke my thumb with great force at the lock and it pops the door open. Usually takes 2 or 3 hits to open it. Looks real nice while the Harley guys are watching.

The dealer sprayed the lock mechanism with a lubricant during the 600 mile service, with no effect.

[grifscoots]

Did they do a tupperware removal when installing the intercom? If so, they may have put the too long of screws in the back portion of the stingray, causing it to hang up.

[Big_E]

Mine does it every time I lock with the remote. I checked for long screws, it still does it. The light finger pressure on the button while unlocking with remote works every time. I could see what was going on when I had it apart. The little bar that slides out to lock it bounces back before you hit the button when you hit unlock. With a little pressure on the button the button goes down before it bounces back.

[PhotoBiker]

I encountered the same problem. It worked when I took it in and didn't when I got it back. It appears they, BMW, have an issue with a part of the electronic locking mechanism. Mine was replaced under warranty although it was in the shop for about another week. Good Luck.

[KMC1]

Great thread. I didn't realize the newer bikes are coming with remote electronic locking bags/compartments now.
Cool.

[GSinNC]

After my dealer repaired mine it works perfect now .... but this is yet another reason why I DO NOT use the security system.

[BillCav]

I was hoping for some advice/help. I just picked up my K1200LT from the dealer after getting the 600 mile oil change done. I also had them install a cb/intercom. They put the helmet cord in the front storage compartment and I believe it got caught up in the latch device. I cannot open the compartment to access the cb control. I have tried the lock in both positions and cannot push the lock down in either position. I have tried to gently pry the lid open with a piece of rubber and a screwdriver, but that didn't work either. I would really hate to have to drive all the way back to the dealer, if I don't have to. But it's looking more like that's what I'll have to do. Unless someone has any other ideas I could try. Not that I wouldn't mind the 100 mile round trip on a relatively new bike...it's just that I'd rather be riding the back roads than the super highway through Milwaukee. Thanks in advance.

I wrote about this a few months back. I solved the problem I had when the compartment wouldn't open and got responses that indicated that it worked for others also.

Basically what I did was take out the two screws on either side just below the compartment. Then make sure that the lock/unlock works and your compartment opens when you do an unlock with the remote. Then proceed to put the screws back in one-half turn at a time. Each time you make a half turn lock and unlock the compartment to make sure it still opens (there is no science to this manoeuver). Keep doing this procedure until the screws are tight and this should allow the compartment to open when the screws are tight. Somehow the screws throw the locking device off centre if you just screw them down haphazardly.

Hope this works for you!

Cheers, Bill

[WPNorton]

Make sure the key is in the unlock position, lock the bike with the remote, hold light pressure on the lock with your finger while unlocking with the remote.


Ditto. I had the same problem. Holding slight pressure on the lock while pressing the remote unlock on the FOB did the trick. Now I need to figure out what's causing the malfunction in the first place. :confused:

[jamesgoodchild]

Wierd. I've had my 05 for a couple of years now and I've not seen one issue with the central locking function. I do keep the moving parts lubed, maybe that's the key. Everything works with just a light touch on either the remote or the push button. I guess I'm saying there is hope for you....

[ajs]

I had this identical problem on my '05 and asked for suggestions on this forum. Big_E responded with the same suggestion as here, at that time. The compartment still malfunctions and whenever it does I just apply the Big_E solution. Works every time. One day I am going to take it to the dealer (about a 250 mile trip) and, hopefully, get it fixed permanently. Until that happens, it will be Big_E to the rescue. Thanks again Big_E.

[Big_E]

Good luck on getting it fixed, my dealer fixed it by teaching me that technique.

[GSinNC]

Good luck on getting it fixed, my dealer fixed it by teaching me that technique.

Sounds like instead of replacing the latch you should replace your dealer. My dealer has mine worknig perfect.

[merk1106]

Thanks to all for the great advice. I did end up riding back to the dealer and he adjusted the screws. It still sticks when using the auto lock, but if I apply pressure to the lock when I use the fob to unlock the bags, it pops open. The dealer said it should work itself out with use, but if not, I should bring it back for replacement under warranty. Time will tell! :)