Exterior Door handle won't open door

[crynow82]

I went to open my wife door after the car was sitting in the cold for about 3 days, and now the door won't open. I know its not frozen, so I think something either broke or sliped inside the door. Anyone have any ideas on how to get the door open, and also how to remove the door panel? Its the drivers side.
Thanks!!

[clcintx]

Same Problem here ... drivers door outside handle wont open the door, only the inside handle ... for a 2001 X5

[Lord Vader]

I'm guessing theirs something inside came loose or broke. The door panel attaches with several plastic clips. Their should be screws at the inside handle which once removed the handle should slide/pop out and then the panel can be pulled off slowly and gently. Their are tools that can be bought at auto parts stores that can assist with this job. It's not hard just time consuming since you have to be firm but gentle. Breaking a clip isn't the end of the world, but breaking the door panel is.