Removing spindle drive of the tailgate

CAUTION: Shutting hood or trunk lid .
Injury hazard!

Support hood/trunk lid in fully open position with the aid of a suitable device.

NOTE: RISK OF DAMAGE
Damage to the spindle drive .
If the trunk lid is not opened completely, the spindle drive may be damaged .

Remove and install the spindle drive only when the Trunk lid is open to the maximum extent.

Feed the wiring harness (1) out of body panel and pull the plug connections out.
Disconnect both plug connections (2).

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Disassemble the ball sockets.
Push the clamp (1) on in arrow direction using a screwdriver.
Lift off the ball socket (2) from the ball pin.
Downshift the clamp (1).
Remove spindle drive (3).

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.