Introduction

E36 - 318i CONVERTIBLE:

The 318iC is equipped with a mechanical soft top. The operating procedures are similar to the previous E30 - 318iC mechanical soft top. Two new features of the E36 - 318iC regarding top operation are:

- Automatic window lowering.
- Electrical interlock of the trunk lid and top storage cover.




Automatic Window Lowering - If the windows are fully closed and KL R is switched on, all four windows will lower slightly when the top storage cover release lever is pulled. A micro switch on the release lever provides a ground signal input to the ZKE IV module for the lowering request feature. This ensures that the window weatherstrip seal will clear the windows as the top is lowered into the storage compartment.

Electrical Interlock of the trunk lid and top storage cover - The trunk lid - storage cover interlock operation is similar in operation to the E36 EM top. The feature prevents damage to the lid or storage cover due to the lack of clearance between the two when either is opened.




The trunk lid micro-switch, mounted on the trunk latch, controls the storage cover lock actuator on the release handle. If the trunk is opened, the micro-switch closes providing a ground for the storage cover lock motor. The release handle is electrically locked.




The storage cover micro-switch, mounted on the right side cover lock, controls the trunk lock relay. When the storage cover is opened, the relay closes and the trunk lid is electrically locked.

Diagnosis and troubleshooting of trunk and storage cover problems must include this interlock function. The trunk lock relay can be tested with the ZKE section of the diagnostic tester.