Re: <E30> Glove box won't open :-(

["Ron Buchalski" <rbuchals@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

There is a fourth option...

Disconnect the rear of the glovebox from the hinge, lower it to gain access 
to the glovebox, and unscrew the latch from the inside.

It worked for me, although it's a PITA to work in the confined space.

In my case, the metal "finger" on the latch broke, so the glovebox handle no 
longer engaged the two metal latches that lock into the square hole in the 
dash.

I recommend that everyone with the original latch check it and perhaps 
replace it before it breaks!

- -rb

>
>Date: Wed, 23 May 2001 12:51:29 -0500
>From: Drew Mouton <drew@domain.elided>
>Subject: Re: <E30> Glove box won't open :-(
>
>Hey Dan,
>Unfortunately, this is an all too common occurance for us E30 owners
>(hey! I have an '87 iC too!). I just went through it a few months ago.
>
>First off, buy a replacement glove box latch kit. The dealer has them for 
>$45 or so, and I've seen a guy on eBay that keeps selling them for $15 to 
>$20.
>
>As to getting it open, it seems there are several options:
>
>1. Drill out the lock and cylinder
>This never seemed like a good solution, because the problem isn't the
>cylinder, it's the latch...which is attached to the cylinder. But
>drilling out the center of the lock releases the screw that attaches the 
>cylinder to the locking mechanism.
>
>2. Break the box door/dash
>Works. But not ideal.
>
>3. Finesse the lock open with a tool.
>
>By this I mean an ice pick, set of screwdrivers, hooked tool, etc.
>This is what I did - carefully poked around in the space between the box 
>door and the dash, trying to get the latch to release. This will be 
>significantly easier if you first remove the screws that attach the glove 
>box door to the underside of the dash. These screws are right above where 
>your toes would be if you were sitting normally in the passenger seat.
>You may have to pull back the carpet or padding, but once the screws are 
>out you'll have a bit more wiggle room on the door.
>
>After it's open again, replacement is a very simple r/r.
>
>Good luck.
>Drew

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