[gt3guru]

Went to exit my 1998 318ti and the door wouldn't open! Rolled the window down and the outside handle wouldn't work either. I have managed to get the door panel off (very difficult with the door closed!) but I can't feel my way around well enough to make any progress.

Has anyone had this problem before?

Does anyone have any ideas what can be done?

Door locks function properly but the handles don't appear to be releasing the latch. Feels like they aren't connected to anything. pulling the bar between the handle and latch has the same result.

 

[gt3guru]

forums.bimmerforums.com wins!

Try pushing in hard on the door from the outside and at the same time try and open it. These doors get a lot of use over the years and eventually get out of alignment. A good push (or a hard pull if you're inside) will often allow it to open. If it does then you just need to adjust the lock and latch. Possibly readjust the door hinges but leave that as a last resort. It is amazing how much trouble it can be to get them back to the correct settings once you loosen the hinges. I spent three hours on one door alone.

 

[witeshark]

Well, as long as it's sorted, that's good... Isn't it?