2000 BMW X5 DRIVERS DOOR PROBLEM-NOT LOCKED, WONT OPEN!

TAYLORKIMBERLYA

MEMBER
2000 BMW X5
V8
FWD
AUTOMATIC
96,000 MILES

HELLO - I need to gain access to the door panel; my door is stuck shut and will not open! It's unlocked though. I currently have to crawl through the passenger side and hop over into the drivers seat. Is there a way to remove the door and if so. What about the side airbags? Please help! (I believe the cords/cables that connect the handle to the mechanism are stretched too far or broken so how do I get the door panel off to inspect?)

1 Reply

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

The problem is the door latch mechanism is bad and needs replacement. The method I use to get the door panel off is to get the screws loose, one is behind the plastic plug that has "SRS" on it, one is behind the wood trim. The panel is held on with plastic clips that have to be forced off. Even after the panel comes off, there is still the stuck door, and it will require the removal of the vapor barrier, try to save it if you can, if not replace it with new and use new mastic or the rain water can wet the carpets. I have done this job and the possibility exists the door panel will be damaged during this activity, be aware.