[jonnybrad2001]

Isn't their a keyhole above the numberplate, right hand end? Reckon I can just about make it out in photos of mine (can't be arsed to go down and physically look right now sorry) Turn key to left says manual.

 

[jonnybrad2001]

Buggerations!! <googles> WTF BMW, fair enough on the 3/5 door where difficult but doable to get in via the back seats, but utterly idiotic to drop a $2 part from the convertible with no other access. Mar '09 looks like the changeover, I know it doesn't help but glad I accidentally got an early one.

Can you push at the lock via the access hole you created? Used to have to unlock my Golf boot by pushing the lock to the side with a screwdriver to release the boot (rarely used the boot, so one winter and mk2 aero saw a seized rear lock).

Code scans? If the hood responding at all? Always a sod that if ones slightly out of position it'll stop the other opening, especially as fixing one needs you to open the other....