BMW Repair: 2001 bmw 525i wagon tailgate problem, bmw 525i, 2001 bmw 525i

Question
My dash-on board indicator light is lit, showing that the tailgate is open. I go back there and close the tailgate window and the light remains on. I then close the tailgate itself, it closes but i don't hear the locking mechanism anymore (the sound that sounds as though the tailgate is sucked into a locking position when you gently close it)..The small (red/clear) tailgate light stayed lit as we drove home and as we parked the car -it wouldn't turn off. I then proceded to remove the #4 fuse and the interior lights all went off - (i did this so the battery wouldn't drain)I really don't know why the trunk won't close the way it use to (with that locking mechanism)and how I can fix it..Please Help/Advise! Thank you!

Answer
Nelson the most like cause is a faulty microswitch in the lock actuator on the tailgate or a faulty soft close actuator (rotating latch) I would try lubing the lock actuator in the tailgate (female receptacle) with a WD40 or TriFlow oil or Silicone. Move the latch when lubing. See if the latch is just sticky or dirty not moving the microswitch and turning off the light and cluster warning. Also I have seen the Tailgate wiring harness chaffed and damaged at in the rubber boot area that connects the tailgate to the body. If lubing doesn't work I would move the boot and inspect the wiring in this area.
-Evan