Driver's Door fails to unlock

[BavarianZHP]

Hey all,

My driver's door fails to unlock with the key (remote or manual turning method). Otherwise everything is fine (it can lock with remote or key). I'm thinking some linkage arm broke? The only way to unlock the door is to pull on the door handle from inside the cabin. It's a PITA, I have to climb from the passenger side or roll down the windows every time I lock the car.

I'm assuming the actuator is fine since it can be remotely locked and makes noise on unlock (I think it makes the appropriate buzzing noise, hard to tell with all other doors unlocking as well). The manual key operation should always work even if all batteries (key and car) are dead right? What could be the issue? Is there a DIY?


Thanks,

[M0nk3y]

GM5 module it sounds like it's on its way out.

Can you unlock/lock it with the central unlock button?

[BavarianZHP]

Sorry, I'm a BMW newb.

I was using the central BMW button on the fob to lock the car (say's "lock" by it) - is that what you mean? I didn't try holding the button, tapping it twice, etc.. to unlock the car this way. I was using the arrowed upper key to unlock it.

[alexandre]

He's talking about the locking button next to your hazard switch on your center console.

[M0nk3y]

Sorry, I'm a BMW newb.

I was using the central BMW button on the fob to lock the car (say's "lock" by it) - is that what you mean? I didn't try holding the button, tapping it twice, etc.. to unlock the car this way. I was using the arrowed upper key to unlock it.

GM5 module controls your central locking system, wipers, windows...etc.

Here's a good read:

http://www.bmwgm5.com/

I meant the central locking button on your console. Does that work at all?

[BavarianZHP]

Thanks for bearing with me guys. I'll update you in a few secs.. Yes, central locking button (page 32 of manual... I'm getting through reading it!).

[wsmeyer]

I'm guessing #1 in the diagram:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...=41&fg=40&hl=6

There is no linkage arm between the key and the door latch. As a safety feature, the physical key should unlock the door without electricity.

There is linkage between the inner handle and the latch, but it connects at a different place, and to prevent tampering with a slim-jim, is disengaged if the door is locked from the outside.

William.

[BavarianZHP]

Ok, the central lock button will lock all of the doors but it still does not unlock the driver's side.

[Hermes]

if just one door than it's probably your actuator in the door itself... but you might want to send your gm5 in for repair anyways, it will eventually have issues. Check out the site Kyle posted, I will be sending mine to him soon for repair

[BavarianZHP]

Thanks, I'll open up the door to see if I can find anything off...