Door handle stuck in outward position?

ELROS

MEMBER
2009 BMW 118I
30,000 MILES

Pulled a bit too hard on my door handle it seems. I have had it happen before but usually a soft tap would fix it. Now it really doesn't want to move.

By the way, it's a BMW116i, I chose 118i because there was no other option.

5 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,643 POSTS

So, either the handle is broken internally, or the handle carrier needs to be replaced, once you take it part you will be able to see here are the instructions. Check out the images (below). Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem so we can see what's going on.

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Saturday, July 29th, 2023 AT 2:44 PM

ELROS

MEMBER
3 POSTS

The door handle itself seemed fine, except for some scratches.

I couldn't notice anything wrong with the handle carrier either besides the spring not being as strong anymore and no grease left. Decided to replace it just in case. Now it seems to be working again when used normally. I once pulled a bit rough on it, like when you in a real hurry or something and it didn't go back as smooth. I didn't dare to try it again because I really need my car a lot untl I have vacation next week.

Will use it for now and see if it holds up. Will take a bit of a closer look when I have time in my vacation. Doesn't matter if it gets stuck then, haha.

Also, for your amazing and fast reply can I PayPal you a small tip of like 10 euros? I really appreciate your help!

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Thursday, August 3rd, 2023 AT 1:54 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,643 POSTS

It could be the latch that is not helping the handle return. Tips are always appreciated.

https://gofund.me/c7d318ad

Use 2CarPros anytime, we are here to help. Please tell a friend.

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Friday, August 4th, 2023 AT 10:55 AM

ELROS

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I finally found the exact issue. When you fully pull the door handle it slides out of the carrier, blocking the carrier from going back into standard position. The door handle can't move either because the carrier blocks it. You have to push/pull the carrier around a bit for it to shoot back into its original place, but the carrier doesn't take the handle with him.

I tried it with the handle from the rear door on the new carrier and it still has this issue. Even though none of the other doors have this issue. I'm so confused why 2 seemingly perfect parts can have an issue like this.

I added a video of me explaining the issue to my friend, so don't mind the Dutch speaking, haha.

I would be very surprised if you could give me a solution, but who knows. Probably forced to go to a garage anyway.

Video (Click to make bigger)