Locking/unlocking with key

[Hellrot530i]

I recently had 2 cables (inside driver's door) replaced. A few days later I discovered that the key will not lock or unlock door(s). Fob works as it should. Any ideas what is wrong? Thanks!

[Hellrot530i]

Is this maybe a key reprogramming issue? Any help is appreciated. Thanks!

[Hellrot530i]

1998 750iL (10/97 build) not sure if that shows in mobile post.

[xboss]

One of the cables must not be connected properly or they are reversed? If they just got messed with and now it is not working then it is safe to say that is your problem. remove the door panel and take a look!

[Hellrot530i]

Replaced both Bowden cables. Handle was fine, door just wouldn't open from outside. Confused as to how cables would affect key lock/unlock function, if its opens OK with fob??? Thanks.

[Mayorchuck]

I think they read it wrong. Sounds like something mechanical to me. Have you tried turning the key WAY to the left. This is the procedure when there is an electrical failure. Might also try a battery nap and see if it will reset.

[Hellrot530i]

Thanks, Mayorchuck. How far/hard "left"? Or will I know it when I get there? Assume by "battery nap" you mean disconnecting battery for ~10 min to reset?

[Mayorchuck]

I think it's a full 90 on the door. Look at the info towards the bottom here:

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1002202

Correct on the battery nap.

[BOBS750il]

Sounds like the star shaped rod wasn't in place when the actuator was reinstalled. That star shaped rod goes to the back of the key lock and if its not done right it either won't work or if its not in sync then the car will think your holding the key in full lock or unlock mode. I'd pull the exterior handle and look to see if the little rod coming from the back of the lock is engaged in the actuator

[BOBS750il]

If everything works properly with the key fob then I'm fairly certain the key lock isn't connected properly.

[Mayorchuck]

Good info. I don't have any links for this issue and don't remember seeing it addressed here. If this turns out to be the issue, please take a few pics for future reference.

[BOBS750il]

Good info. I don't have any links for this issue and don't remember seeing it addressed here. If this turns out to be the issue, please take a few pics for future reference.

I wish I had taken some. I found this issue out the hard way during a lighted exterior handle retrofit. They're a PITA to get lined up so I'm betting that's the issue here

[Hellrot530i]

I didn't replace the cables myself (above my pay grade). How hard of a job is the handle to remove and redo line up the "star" rod if that is the culprit? Would rather have the shop re-do it, but if it's straight forward, I may tackle it. Thanks.

[BastardE38]

Its definitely the rod. If you have the know how to replace a window regulator or dorr lock actuator, this is cake. If you've never been in your door yet, i would sit this one out. You basically have to undo everything the shop already did.

But if you wish to proceed:

1) Remove door panel and moisture barrier.
2) Detach window glass from regulator and roll all the way up and wedge it firmly.
3) Unscrew nuts holding just the rearward regulator track and move track out of way, gently.
4) Now look inside the door towards the door lock, unhook the cables you just had replaced.
5) Unbolt lock actuator from door and look/ feel for the rod sticking straight back from the handle assembly.
6) Notice pattern of ridges on rod and actuator, install actuator with rod in the appropriate hole on the back of actuator.
7) Installation is reverse of removal.

[xboss]

I suppose you could consider it an upgrade. You now have the lock pic proof mod! They say these locks are easy to pick but you have the 2.0 upgrade. Keyfob only. :)

If that was a facelift option everybody would be pulling those rods out.

[Hellrot530i]

Thanks for the suggestions and ideas bobfawcett. Xhoss, while it may be a great anti theft mod, if my fobs' batteries go out, I'm screwed. And yes, I replaced both this week. Thought about trying handle, but I talked to shop that did it and he said he'd make it right; so prob no pics, but will report results when I take it back week after next. Now trying deal with a perpetual "check coolant" warning after replacing my expansion tank today. Most appreciative of the help, guys! 👍

[BOBS750il]

We're here to help. Glad he's going to make it right. Good luck with the coolant error