What is the black latch in the trunk cover?

[Fred/Houston]

When I raise my trunk lid I see a black latch/handle with a white arrow on it pointing up. It doesn't seem to do anything. What is it for?
Thanks
Fred/Houston

[Fetch]

It's for you to pull the trunk cover closed, just make sure you move your hand out before the trunk closes on your hand! ;)

[Rus]

I'd venture to guess that its the emergency trunk unlock. Newer cars have these levers in case someone is locked in the trunk (children?).

[RallyD]

to close the trunk so you dont get your hands dirty or scratch the edge of the trunk with rings if you wear them.

[Qube]

Is that a dealer option? :) I don't have one... or is this touring only?

[NovceGuru]

I'd venture to guess that its the emergency trunk unlock. Newer cars have these levers in case someone is locked in the trunk (children?).

Why would you want them to be able to get out?


O.K. bad joke sorry.

[Fred/Houston]

To close the lid? That's the last answer I expected. I guess I've been closing the lid wrong all this time?
I may have to stick my son in the trunk to verify if it will open the trunk as well, but something tells me he may not want to after I toyed with my daughter looking for a seal leak in the trunk of my E23 some years back.
:)
Thanks
Fred/Houston

[TC535i]

It doesn't open it... it's just something to grab onto to pull the lid shut.

[TC535i]

BTW, my 95 540i/6 has the black handle with the arrow... my 90 535i and 92 318 just have indents in the carpeting, no plastic covering.

[LunatiC]

Yep, just an indent to stick your fingers in to pull down the trunk lid. Most European cars have that now, I guess BMW was one of the first pioneers in doing so. We had 2 Holden Astras (imported Opels) and they both had it -- we only have 1 now after an unfortunate accident.