My 2011 535i xDrive has started exhibiting a reluctance to unlock the door when you "double pull" the inside door handle. About 50% of the time you have to press the door unlock button on the dash to get the door to unlock. Since it doesn't fail 100% of the time, I am wondering if there is some sort of maintenance (lubrication?) that needs to be done on the locks? And if so, I'm guessing it would require the removal of the door panel (something that I'm really not looking forward to)?
most probable culprit is the actuator, which requires removal of door panel
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Correct. Time for a new door lock actuator, "system latch" as BMW parts catalog calls it.
ASE and BMW Master Certified Technician
Thanks for the quick replies. Any estimate as to the difficulty of replacing the actuator? Something that a reasonably capable DIY mechanic can do? Any special tools required? Do I need to have tiny hands and be triple jointed to work inside the door?
Looks like it's time to start searching for YouTube videos...
Thanks for the link. Sounds doable, but also sounds like a major PITA... I HATE working inside of tight areas where critical stuff has to be done by touch and feel...
here is my invoice before tax from bmw dealer
TOTAL LABOR 359.10
TOTAL PARTS 281.99
TOTAL SUBLET 0.00
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Thanks for sharing your cost for replacement. Seems about what one might expect at the dealership. I think I may buy the part online and then check with a local body shop for an installation quote.
Or maybe I'll just turn off the auto door lock feature so that I don't have to deal with the problem...
My car was broken into a few months ago (Drivers door).had the glass replaced. Not sure if the thief messed with my lock or the shop didn't plug something back up but now the door will not electronically lock with the key fob. I have to manually take the key out of the fob and lock the door myself. Also- my alarm will not arm itself unless I open and close my passenger door. Super frustrating..
FYI I was always told that you shouldn't double pull on the handle to unlock, you are just stripping device that unlocks door.
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