I already have it back together but I may still have a problem with the hall-effect sensors. If I have to take it back apart again, I'll video tape the entire process. It's not too difficult so you shouldn't have a problem. The hardest part I found was putting the cover back on. The easiest way to do it is to start by putting the screws towards the front of the car in first. That will hold the cover in place while you work the side towards the rear of the car back into place.

Once you take the panel off, it will be obvious what your problem is. It will most likely be a cracked latch (plastic part) like I had or the flexible drive cable may be stripped/frayed. The latch motor could also be the problem but you would still be able to operate the front latches with the Allen key located between the visors if it was the motor.

Bryan Skarbek I finally took the panel off, didn't bother looking at gear, both clamps have the broken plastic bits.... just buy new ones right? Superglueing them sounds dangerous after a while.

Bryan Skarbek What if the center part where the hex goes is broken? I’m trying to unlatch manually because I need to repair the harness. The left latch comes loose but the right doesn’t. Is there any way to unlatch the passenger side so I can open the roof partially to get access to the screws holding the cover?

Hey man,I have this same problem right now will this problem cause the blinking red light ? Just curious. I'm taking the panel here in your video off tomorrow to take a look at the latch...i can see plastic broken inside will this problem also relate to it not being able to fully extend it self down to close? Thank you!

There’s three parts. 1 - The gear that turns ( where you insert the allen key) 2 - the actual latches, left and right. I thought I had broken the first piece. I took everything apart and realized it was actually a latch that was broken. Ordered the part, took it apart, and reassembled everything. As for the blinking light, the car can sense the top isn’t closed properly or something electrical is wrong. After I fixed the latch, I still had the blinking light. It was due to frayed cables when the top goes down. Hydraulic pump, liquid and everything was perfectly fine. Best of luck, took me 2-3 days after persistence to organize it but hey, thats just part of life man.

You can remove it with snap ring pliers

No, unfortunately it has to come off.

Hey there🤙🏼 a big thx in advance! Wondering if you can help me with the...how to unlatch the top, so I can replace the convertible overhead top motor. Love the videos bud!!

I broke this screw while trying to manually open/close the roof. It’s plastic and breaks easily. You need the part listed in this guide. www.bmwrepairguide.com/bmw-e46-convertible-latch-gear/

@@timothyTNM117 I am so thankful that I got from the app you mentioned can you please tell me how can I get the locks also of right and left

I just purchased new parts so I didn't try to repair it. It's simple to just swap out the part with the new one.

Bryan Skarbek how much did you pay for them? Seems kind of pricey