I just finished replacing the latch/actuator mechanism for the rear passenger side door on my 2008 328xi. And thanks to your video I was able to perform this on my own in about an hour. The only major differences for the rear door actuator replacement is: There are 2 wire harnesses attached to the original actuator. The harnesses were only there to provide a clean look so I broke the plastic clips that fastened the wires and was able to remove the original part; The rear door actuator also does not have to connect to a key tumbler so that helped speed up the process. I got my part from a local BMW repair shop for $150. Thanks again for the helpful video
Thanks for the helpful and clear instructions. You saved me with the tip on needing to remove the lock tumbler from the door handle with an allen wrench. Another video missed this step so it took me a minute to figure out why I couldn't remove the actuator because it still had that part in it. Very helpful and clear walkthrough. Thanks!
NICOYA, thankyou so much. Had already replaced both rear actuators on my e90, then the drivers door failed. The drivers is confirmed more difficult owing to the window runner, and I ALMOST put off doing it and nearly payed a garage as I didn't want to remove the window myself. Then I found your video showing your trick to loosen and push the window runner to the side avoiding the need to remove borh the window and also the door handle mechanism (ballache). Completed myself in less than an hour and total cost was 17 pounds for a preowned actuator. Thanks again so much.
Thanks for the tip about moving the window regulator support bar to the side-I was stuck trying to get the old actuator out of the door and really didn't want to take the window out like some other guides were showing. This was a huge help and well done video!
Thanks for the video, just replaced mine using this as a guide! Took me and a friend a little over 2 hours. One tip I would add: the door lock button piece needs to go in deep using the little notch, otherwise it will fall out when you try to put the panel back on.
Just did this on a 2007 335xi, thanks to your video it was as easy as pie. Your technique of putting new one back in saved me although taking it out was a bit challenging. Few things you didn't go in detail was that mine had the annoying clampers, one near or behind the release cable on the actuator and the other clamper on the bottom of actuator(Germans put them there to hold the one electrical wire to prevent it possibly getting caught by the window upon rolling down window etc., I yanked both clamps out threw them away and left the dangling electrical wire wrapped around actuator upon new install away from window sliding paths). The one release cable attached to the metal lever of actuator was self explanatory of how to remove/install from the actuator. Another note is that the led exterior "under door handle light" can fall off easily if not careful but it clips back on easily too. The new actuator came with no threaded hole but easy enough to rethread it with old screws taken from old actuator like on a ground or work bench. Thanks for this video, you saved a lot of us and hopefully my little detail here will assist others. For those wondering, no you do not need to replace both left & right at once plus you don't need to disconnect car battery. I got my oem parts from amazon both left n right actuators for about $56.... beat that Stealerships! Good luck all!
For those of you having trouble opening the door because its locked and closed, you have to remove the door panel. You may need to remove the backseat, but I didn't have too. Look up videos on how to do that. Now the reason why the door lock actuator failed can be vary, but in my case what worked to get it unlocked was 1) unlock all doors using remote 2) pull and hold the door latch in the up position 3) while holding it up, LOCK the doors. You will feel a bit of resistance, but keep the latch held up. Then you should be able to open the door by pulling the handle (inside or outside). Anyway, this video helped so much! I did this job last week and followed this video, very detailed. Some things didn't make sense while watching the video, but made sense as soon as i started doing it.
Thanks Carlos, without this video BMW wanted $503.00 to do this work. Our drivers door would not unlock without using the interior door handle. However, it would lock just fine. My wife and I did this work with one hiccup. Part cost was $120+-. We installed the actuator without hooking up the outside handle mechanism. Users should make sure to check that both the interior and exterior handles work, as well as the electrical actions, before putting the panel back on. 30 more minutes to fix that. Thanks again!
I have been having the same problem and just been doing research. Does your bimmer have comfort access? I have seen, there is a lot of info saying you must replace both front lock actuators--did you experience this? Also, do you do all this work with the battery plugged in?
This video really helped me. T replaced the front off side door actuator on my 318i (2006) plate. It took me approximately 1.5hrs. Thank you very much Carlos.
Thank you for this video. It was extremely helpful and really the best guide to change the door lock actuator. Word of advise for those performing it: Ensure when installing the cable inside the door on re-assembly, that the top clip is in the correct place, in between the two small flanges/retainers.
Carlos Thanks for the video. I just got the parts to do this and your video has given me some much needed confidence going into this job. Always nice to be able to watch someone do it first and provide tips. Thanks again.
Great video! Thanks so much for posting this, made the job much easier. Just finished up on my '09 328i xDrive sedan, and now I'm back to keyless entry!
Thanks Carlos! Great video and very much appreciated..... keep them coming! Just did this on my 2007 328xi. The only difference is I had 2 annoying plastic clips attached to the actuator holding some small wires out of the way and they were a little tricky to pry out. Once out the actuator was free.
I had those same clips holding some wires in place, those one time plastic clips that you usually need to cut off. Once they were broken free, it came out pretty quickly.
Fred Knapp oh you aren’t kidding!!!! I have an 06 and pray that I don’t have to bother re affixing that mess! That was outrageous. I had to shine a 4000w equiv les lamp into the door to see what was going on.
I'm very glad that I watched this video, the first video I watched a gentleman pulled the whole window out. And I didn't want to do that. I'm glad I watched this video
Hi Isaiah; we only replaced the driver side actuator. I can't imagine that there is any connection to other actuators other than a fuse. We did the work with battery hooked up. We also left the window in place.
Hi Carlos, if you ever do an update, please cover the door lock itself. I spent 8 hours on the repair, 5 of which trying to get the door lock back into the door. I never succeeded and will have to take the car into the shop. It’s always worth a try to fix these ourselves. Thanks for the support regardless.
Jonathan Reed Sorry to hear you are having trouble with the door lock. I’ll will try to update the video when I can. I’m in the process of moving to Arizona. Leaving California which is has been going downhill. so it’s going to be awhile before I start posting new videos. That was one of my first automotive videos and did not turn out as good as some of the videos I make now. I have improved over time. Anyways, best of luck to you!
Nicoya thanks for considering this. My car is an 06 and I think that the door lock assembly (outside) and the wire clips on the actuator are different than the 08-12’s. Ok. Take care.
Nicoya hi Carlos, thanks again for this outstanding video. My mechanic fixed the door latch for free. But here’s what he said: no need to remove the outer door lock or handle. Do you agree?
The outside door lock "assembly" (where the keyhole is located) must come out since it actually goes through the door frame and into the actuator, but the door handle does not need to be removed. Nicoya has it right in this video.
Justin Kredible thanks I appreciate this. Carlos is always right and has the best videos seriously..he doesn’t skip things and always uses supreme lighting. I’m about to implement his radiator video as my 325xi has 140 on it now and it is starting to leak.
This video helped me a lot today! Everything went smoothly, although the 4mm allen that holds the door knob was a hassle to come out, didn't know that the screw would take so long lol. But I wonder why it happens? Normal wear and tear for the Ultimate Driving Maching
Great video. This is exactly what I was looking for but just have one question for you. When you loosened up the bolts to slide over the window regulator so you could take the actuator out, was the window in place or did you take the window out to move the regulator?
Ok so I just done this today, some tips for anyone interested. Buy a repair kit off eBay for inside the actuator for £5 as you get 2 spare plastic cogs and 2 other common failure bits. One of the cogs had broke on mine so I swapped it out, made sure all the bits were installed correctly then gave it all a good spray of white lithium grease (watch the motors!). If you want to check it’s all working as it should before you fit the actuator back in to the door simply connect the power and unlock & lock the door a few times you will see the white plastic part which holds the metal rod with black plastic at the top move up and down. If it doesn’t, take the actuator apart again and double check all parts are fitted correctly then try again. You could buy a second hand actuator for £30 (or brand new from BMW for £155 😯) but unless the motors have gone it’s not worth it.
Thanks for the video! I spend more time fixing my driveway decoration (2006 bmw 325i) than driving it! lol my steering column is locked and I just found out the driver's door lock doesn't work either. I replaced water pump/thermostat and a few gaskets and plastic stuff recently. I guess after all this I might be able to drive it?... do you think? Time will tell.
cool video. have a question. my actuator seems not functional. the door wont lockl unlock . i cant access it using the key either. is there a way to open the door l actuator. ive read people replace a fuse with higher amp . ive tried that and no luck. any ideas?
Carlos, great video. Question, can an actuator lock the door in place so that even manually it cannot be unlocked or locked? My driver's side rear door I can't lock it. I removed the panel and the lock won't move up or down. it seems like the actuator is frozen.
Hi, Carlos. Followed steps successfully until it came time to put the door lock assembly back in place. It won't seem to fit back in place. It is going into the spot for it on the new actuator but the door light sensor is blocking it's entry. Any suggestions? Appreciate your help!
Without seeing whats going on. I can't really help. Your just going to have to figure it out. Make sure you have that plastic piece on correctly. Good luck
Thanks for the video. I'm about to do this as well. What are the tools required to finish this up? This would be my first DIY car repair so I don't have a wide assortment of tools for this kind of work but am looking to build up.
Replaced mine and I still have the same issue . I did notice my old one did not have the plastic piece you take off and use it on the new one. What is that piece called?
Great video, thanks. One question- were the 3 mounting holes on the new actuator threaded? My new one is not and 2 different dealership parts guys say that is in fact correct. Really????
I thought the same thing as well. Mine did not come with threads either, but I believe that's the way they make it. Once you start tightening the torx bolts, it will cut threads onto it.
This is true. The replacement part has the holes, but you need to use the OEM bolts to cut new threads into the housing. Just start the bolts, and they will continue to move in.
Thanks for the video! Did you have to apply a new strip of butyl tape/ rope on the foam vapor barrier of the door? If not, any problems with leaks? I've heard on forums that another method is to heat the butyl tape with a heat gun/ hair drier or simply use black silicone II window sealant. -Rob
I was able to reuse what was on the door. Have no leaks. Its not very critical to have a complete seal. As far as I know, it's just for road noise and to keep moisture and dust off the panel.
Good video carlos cuadra,i just got the same problem but,my door does not open,make the same sound and keep lock,how can i get the srews on the side,i dont have way,please let me know buddy,thanks,gracias colega!
Thank you. Very helpful, showing the steps. The new actuator does not work though. Door remains unlocked and the there is a stuttering sound, similar to what was demonstrated at the beginning of this video, but slower. Any thoughts?
Check your voltages. Also, where did you buy your new actuator? Sometimes new does not mean its a good unit. Check for anything that would cause it to bind.
@@InitechAuto Thank you. Got it from an Amazon seller. It got good reviews, is returnable with a 12 month warranty, so felt it was worth a try. You mentioned binding. I did think that when turning the lock w the key it seemed stiff. I transferred the white receive of the lock shaft as you suggested. Thanks again.
@@InitechAuto Thank you. Got it from an Amazon seller. It got good reviews, is returnable with a 12 month warranty, so felt it was worth a try. You mentioned binding. I did think that when turning the lock w the key it seemed stiff. I transferred the white receive of the lock shaft as you suggested. Thanks again.
@@InitechAuto Thank you for the reply Nicoya. The problem was a bad replacement lock actuator. The vendor sent me a another one and it works great. The process was way easier the second time. Your video was very helpful.
Hi Carlos, you have the best video posted for door lock actuator replacement on an e90. I didn’t see you re-install the door latch (outside side of the door, the latch you use to open the door). Can you possibly recall when this, in the sequence, was re-installed? Thanks Jon ) ps, I’m doing this repair this week and simultaneously swapping out the awful stock speakers with Focals).
This was one of my older video's. It does not show me reinstalling the driver's door lock. Missed that. You don't have to remove the outside door handle to replace the latch. Just the lock. Just pay attention to how you remove it and reverse the procedure.
Hello NIcoya! Thanks for sharing this video on fixing the door problem. I have something alike but with the rear door. Is kind of making a noise when I go driving and I kind of think that I have a problem with that part that You just changed; I don't know. Again, when I go and speed the car the back door behind the driver makes that weird noise. So I have to change that same part that You just did? Your opinion will be appreciated. Thank You my friend Nicoya!!! Have a good time and take care !!!
Really? Yes! it is that the car locks the doors every time I go drive but is not locking the one behind Me. It stays open. You are right!!! I will tell the mechanic over here. Now I have a better idea. Great! Thanks again!!!
Great video. You did it very good. But you should be more gentle with the interior door trim panel.....you first removed it with one hand, dropping the right side and scratching it to the door trim panel step and then brutally dropped the interior trim panel faced down on door trim panel step. No wonder it scratched. You even wonder about it at the end of the video.
The damage to the trim was not caused be me. The trim is not as delicate as you think. But I suppose in a perfect world you could lay things out on a blanket.
NYC video, I ave d same problem on my bmw 320 driver door. I cannot unlock it. My lock makes d same annoying noise, popping up nd down wid high speed. Plz suggest me hw to fix it
Quicl question, we replaced all the fuses for the doors and replaced drivers side door lock actuator. When installed. The doors lock, then unlock but won't lock again. What would be the next issue we would investigate ?
Update, the person who sold me the block was for the rear drivers side.... with some modding and changing parts from old to new... got it working :P thanks so much! your video helped.
how did you figure that the door lock actuator was bad.?? my car has all lock's work but the driver door only lock's but wont unlock.? is this what was the problem here.??
Hi I have BMW320i 2005 The Driver door its easy to lock bye remote key but, I can not unlock by remote Key,If you try to unlock manually it will Open. Could you tel me what the problem?? Sam From Oman Regards
Duramax, Its a very common problem with these cars. You most likely have the same problem. It's harder for the actuator to unlock than lock. The drivers door is the most used of them all.
www.amazon.com/APDTY-Anti-Theft-Description-51-21-7-202-143-51217202143/dp/B01N0AQXAB/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=lock+actuator&qid=1560647780&s=automotive&sr=1-1&vehicle=2008-31-178-20--1-6-7-9037-2267-1-1---1&vehicleName=2008+BMW+328i The dealer should have them as well. www.autohausaz.com/
+Kevin Martinez That's the same thing. He forgot to mention a third screw under the interior door handle that you have to unscrew before removing the panel. Personally, I removed the lock by the upper hole, it was easier.
Not sure on the 128 model. But check these links out. BMW X5 Child Safety Latch on rear doors - Introduction Test(HD) HOW TO Child Proof Car Door 97-03 BMW 5-SERIES E39 528I 540I M5
Carlos Cuadra Thanks Carlos, I was talking about the wire that you show is your video 4:7 , its kinda attached with actuator, and I was wondering how to unhook it from actuator.
Carlos Cuadra I did took out the door handle rod but still there was this cable that connects to actuator and I couldn't figure it out how to remove it..
Would this be my problem too - ie, the door(s) won't unlock with the fob - and even the button on the dash won't unlock shit. But the key fob does lock the doors. Is that weird?
Travis King No, I do not..I might have mentioned some in the video but I don't remember. These were some of my first video's.. So they are not as good as I would like them to be. Work in progress. :-)
so here's a question: how did you open your door? - So my car has the exact same problem. I have all the replacement parts and tools to do the job. My issue is that I can not open my door from the inside or out side of the car. I have tried using my key and other methods of opening the door but it wont budge. I don't think I will be able to take off my door panel with the door closed. any suggestions?
It's unfortunate that you can't open your door. But you should be able to get the panel off anyways, but it will be a little more difficult. Once you have the panel off. You should be able to figure out a way to open the door. Good Luck!
Slight Open the backdoor n between the front n rear door, on the side if the front door, ull see a black rubber button, press that down and use the interior handle to open the door, do it at the same time
If you separate your key fob into the two parts, one part is an actual key. Use this to insert it into the door and turn it left and right. My remotes wouldn't work, nor the interior/exterior handles, but this method allowed me to open the door successfully, as this key connects directly to the lock assembly which goes into the actuator and physcially moves the lock open/closed.
I'm not sure how I did it. But when I slipped the key lock into the door, it seemed stiff. So pushed it into place and tightened the screw. Then ten outside door handle wouldn't open and the key wouldn't turn. I pulled the lock back out and it was destroyed. It broke because it wasn't lined up right. Please tell people how to line up the lock correctly to install it. It's now going to cost me $500 for the lock.
Can anyone help me out? I see the part where he popped out the wire that's connected to the actuator, inside the door paper, but there are 2 other black plastic pieces that's connected to and I have no idea how to remove it, don't want to break it. Anyone have any idea?
Yeah I'm working on a 335i e90 but front passenger side. I was able to pop off the wire with the white plastic and metal springs but Idk how to disconnect the black T shape plastics thats also connected to the actuator. They r the ones that's the velcro lookin things are tied around to
You probably figured this out already, but the other 2 black t-shaped pieces hold the wiring for the exterior LED illumination under the door lock. I was able to snap one off without breaking it. Not so much with the 2nd one. I just made sure the wiring was out of the way of moving things when I put it back together.
I just finished replacing the latch/actuator mechanism for the rear passenger side door on my 2008 328xi. And thanks to your video I was able to perform this on my own in about an hour. The only major differences for the rear door actuator replacement is: There are 2 wire harnesses attached to the original actuator. The harnesses were only there to provide a clean look so I broke the plastic clips that fastened the wires and was able to remove the original part; The rear door actuator also does not have to connect to a key tumbler so that helped speed up the process. I got my part from a local BMW repair shop for $150. Thanks again for the helpful video
Thanks for the helpful and clear instructions. You saved me with the tip on needing to remove the lock tumbler from the door handle with an allen wrench. Another video missed this step so it took me a minute to figure out why I couldn't remove the actuator because it still had that part in it. Very helpful and clear walkthrough. Thanks!
NICOYA, thankyou so much. Had already replaced both rear actuators on my e90, then the drivers door failed.
The drivers is confirmed more difficult owing to the window runner, and I ALMOST put off doing it and nearly payed a garage as I didn't want to remove the window myself.
Then I found your video showing your trick to loosen and push the window runner to the side avoiding the need to remove borh the window and also the door handle mechanism (ballache).
Completed myself in less than an hour and total cost was 17 pounds for a preowned actuator.
Thanks again so much.
Glad you found it helpful.
@@InitechAuto I did and I hope others find this video too.
Thanks again. :)
Thanks for the tip about moving the window regulator support bar to the side-I was stuck trying to get the old actuator out of the door and really didn't want to take the window out like some other guides were showing. This was a huge help and well done video!
Glad you found it helpful.
Thanks for the video, just replaced mine using this as a guide! Took me and a friend a little over 2 hours. One tip I would add: the door lock button piece needs to go in deep using the little notch, otherwise it will fall out when you try to put the panel back on.
Glad it worked out for you. Nothing like fixing something yourself!
Just did this on a 2007 335xi, thanks to your video it was as easy as pie. Your technique of putting new one back in saved me although taking it out was a bit challenging. Few things you didn't go in detail was that mine had the annoying clampers, one near or behind the release cable on the actuator and the other clamper on the bottom of actuator(Germans put them there to hold the one electrical wire to prevent it possibly getting caught by the window upon rolling down window etc., I yanked both clamps out threw them away and left the dangling electrical wire wrapped around actuator upon new install away from window sliding paths). The one release cable attached to the metal lever of actuator was self explanatory of how to remove/install from the actuator. Another note is that the led exterior "under door handle light" can fall off easily if not careful but it clips back on easily too. The new actuator came with no threaded hole but easy enough to rethread it with old screws taken from old actuator like on a ground or work bench. Thanks for this video, you saved a lot of us and hopefully my little detail here will assist others. For those wondering, no you do not need to replace both left & right at once plus you don't need to disconnect car battery. I got my oem parts from amazon both left n right actuators for about $56.... beat that Stealerships! Good luck all!
i don't even own a bmw but this is one of the best instructional videos I've seen.
Now if only i can afford the bimmer.......
For those of you having trouble opening the door because its locked and closed, you have to remove the door panel. You may need to remove the backseat, but I didn't have too. Look up videos on how to do that. Now the reason why the door lock actuator failed can be vary, but in my case what worked to get it unlocked was 1) unlock all doors using remote 2) pull and hold the door latch in the up position 3) while holding it up, LOCK the doors. You will feel a bit of resistance, but keep the latch held up. Then you should be able to open the door by pulling the handle (inside or outside).
Anyway, this video helped so much! I did this job last week and followed this video, very detailed. Some things didn't make sense while watching the video, but made sense as soon as i started doing it.
Carlos - thanks for the video! I used it today to replace the passenger door lock actuator/latch on a 335i. It took me about 1.5 hours.
Thanks Carlos, without this video BMW wanted $503.00 to do this work. Our drivers door would not unlock without using the interior door handle. However, it would lock just fine. My wife and I did this work with one hiccup. Part cost was $120+-. We installed the actuator without hooking up the outside handle mechanism. Users should make sure to check that both the interior and exterior handles work, as well as the electrical actions, before putting the panel back on. 30 more minutes to fix that.
Thanks again!
I have been having the same problem and just been doing research. Does your bimmer have comfort access? I have seen, there is a lot of info saying you must replace both front lock actuators--did you experience this? Also, do you do all this work with the battery plugged in?
This video really helped me. T replaced the front off side door actuator on my 318i (2006) plate. It took me approximately 1.5hrs. Thank you very much Carlos.
THis video has been an amazing help ! I followed your guide step by step and saved 350$ CDN dollars! Thanks bunch!
Old video but shout out to you my man used you video as guidance job done perfectly 😊
Thank you very much for the detailed DIY Carlos! I got the part from a trusted local shop and it took me couple of hours. I am very glad it worked :)
Thank you for this video. It was extremely helpful and really the best guide to change the door lock actuator.
Word of advise for those performing it:
Ensure when installing the cable inside the door on re-assembly, that the top clip is in the correct place, in between the two small flanges/retainers.
Carlos Thanks for the video. I just got the parts to do this and your video has given me some much needed confidence going into this job. Always nice to be able to watch someone do it first and provide tips. Thanks again.
Thanks for this! Just finished doing a '06 330xi. Your instructions made it easy.
Great video! Thanks so much for posting this, made the job much easier. Just finished up on my '09 328i xDrive sedan, and now I'm back to keyless entry!
Thanks Carlos! Great video and very much appreciated..... keep them coming! Just did this on my 2007 328xi. The only difference is I had 2 annoying plastic clips attached to the actuator holding some small wires out of the way and they were a little tricky to pry out. Once out the actuator was free.
How do u disconnect the wires behind the actuator to remove it? The that's connected to the actual door handle wires
Aries Valmonte Did you figure it out how to remove the wire behind the actuator, I'm kinda stuck in there....
I had those same clips holding some wires in place, those one time plastic clips that you usually need to cut off. Once they were broken free, it came out pretty quickly.
Fred Knapp oh you aren’t kidding!!!! I have an 06 and pray that I don’t have to bother re affixing that mess! That was outrageous. I had to shine a 4000w equiv les lamp into the door to see what was going on.
I'm very glad that I watched this video, the first video I watched a gentleman pulled the whole window out. And I didn't want to do that. I'm glad I watched this video
Hi Isaiah; we only replaced the driver side actuator. I can't imagine that there is any connection to other actuators other than a fuse. We did the work with battery hooked up. We also left the window in place.
Hi..I just fixed my car 325i..with your video instructions... thanks mate..
Great video! Just finished up my daughter’s car... was of great help. Thanks for sharing !
I swear! every time I fix something. Something else breaks on this damn car.
Sell this piece of ****, it's the same with mine. My first car, a 25 year old Honda was better than my 2008 3 Series.
Hi Carlos, if you ever do an update, please cover the door lock itself. I spent 8 hours on the repair, 5 of which trying to get the door lock back into the door. I never succeeded and will have to take the car into the shop. It’s always worth a try to fix these ourselves. Thanks for the support regardless.
Jonathan Reed
Sorry to hear you are having trouble with the door lock. I’ll will try to update the video when I can. I’m in the process of moving to Arizona. Leaving California which is has been going downhill. so it’s going to be awhile before I start posting new videos. That was one of my first automotive videos and did not turn out as good as some of the videos I make now. I have improved over time. Anyways, best of luck to you!
Nicoya thanks for considering this. My car is an 06 and I think that the door lock assembly (outside) and the wire clips on the actuator are different than the 08-12’s. Ok. Take care.
Nicoya hi Carlos, thanks again for this outstanding video. My mechanic fixed the door latch for free. But here’s what he said: no need to remove the outer door lock or handle. Do you agree?
The outside door lock "assembly" (where the keyhole is located) must come out since it actually goes through the door frame and into the actuator, but the door handle does not need to be removed. Nicoya has it right in this video.
Justin Kredible thanks I appreciate this. Carlos is always right and has the best videos seriously..he doesn’t skip things and always uses supreme lighting. I’m about to implement his radiator video as my 325xi has 140 on it now and it is starting to leak.
This video helped me a lot today! Everything went smoothly, although the 4mm allen that holds the door knob was a hassle to come out, didn't know that the screw would take so long lol. But I wonder why it happens? Normal wear and tear for the Ultimate Driving Maching
Great video. This is exactly what I was looking for but just have one question for you. When you loosened up the bolts to slide over the window regulator so you could take the actuator out, was the window in place or did you take the window out to move the regulator?
Ok so I just done this today, some tips for anyone interested.
Buy a repair kit off eBay for inside the actuator for £5 as you get 2 spare plastic cogs and 2 other common failure bits. One of the cogs had broke on mine so I swapped it out, made sure all the bits were installed correctly then gave it all a good spray of white lithium grease (watch the motors!).
If you want to check it’s all working as it should before you fit the actuator back in to the door simply connect the power and unlock & lock the door a few times you will see the white plastic part which holds the metal rod with black plastic at the top move up and down. If it doesn’t, take the actuator apart again and double check all parts are fitted correctly then try again. You could buy a second hand actuator for £30 (or brand new from BMW for £155 😯) but unless the motors have gone it’s not worth it.
Thanks for the video! I spend more time fixing my driveway decoration (2006 bmw 325i) than driving it! lol my steering column is locked and I just found out the driver's door lock doesn't work either. I replaced water pump/thermostat and a few gaskets and plastic stuff recently.
I guess after all this I might be able to drive it?... do you think? Time will tell.
Good luck with your project.
Thanks for making a how-to video on this. I used it this morning with success!
These instructions worked great for me. Thanks!
cool video. have a question. my actuator seems not functional. the door wont lockl unlock . i cant access it using the key either. is there a way to open the door l actuator. ive read people replace a fuse with higher amp . ive tried that and no luck. any ideas?
Can you believe it!! The little plastic white bit they don't give you is the only piece I need 😳
This is exactly what I was looking for. I have the same problem too and I am pretty sure I can fix it. Tnx and GOD BLESS you.
thanks! great video, i wont be paying the BMW thieves..
I just replaced it myself. Works like a charm. Thanks for the video, Carlos!!
Carlos, great video. Question, can an actuator lock the door in place so that even manually it cannot be unlocked or locked? My driver's side rear door I can't lock it. I removed the panel and the lock won't move up or down. it seems like the actuator is frozen.
Hi, Carlos. Followed steps successfully until it came time to put the door lock assembly back in place. It won't seem to fit back in place. It is going into the spot for it on the new actuator but the door light sensor is blocking it's entry. Any suggestions? Appreciate your help!
Without seeing whats going on. I can't really help. Your just going to have to figure it out. Make sure you have that plastic piece on correctly. Good luck
Thanks for the video. I'm about to do this as well. What are the tools required to finish this up? This would be my first DIY car repair so I don't have a wide assortment of tools for this kind of work but am looking to build up.
I really don't remember. You may have to look at the video and see if I mention any.
Replaced mine and I still have the same issue . I did notice my old one did not have the plastic piece you take off and use it on the new one. What is that piece called?
Same here
Great video, thanks. One question- were the 3 mounting holes on the new actuator threaded? My new one is not and 2 different dealership parts guys say that is in fact correct. Really????
+s langston I don't remember. However, I have seen that before. Look at the bolts. If they are notched, they will cut new threads into the part.
+Carlos Cuadra
That is what I told the parts guys. They should have a tapered end and a slight notch at the beginning, but mine are not.
I thought the same thing as well. Mine did not come with threads either, but I believe that's the way they make it. Once you start tightening the torx bolts, it will cut threads onto it.
jengativ yes that’s what I heard, too.
This is true. The replacement part has the holes, but you need to use the OEM bolts to cut new threads into the housing. Just start the bolts, and they will continue to move in.
Make sure that it is getting power to it. Also check your child security switch if it has it. Good luck!
Worked perfectly. Thanks for putting this up.
I am a college student…I need a car…can I have yours?LOL
I really enjoyed watching this, I'll know how to fix this when I get mine one day!
Wow. Great tutorial. I got my confidence to try this now. Any different steps if car has comfort access?
I do not know.
Thanks for the video! Did you have to apply a new strip of butyl tape/ rope on the foam vapor barrier of the door? If not, any problems with leaks? I've heard on forums that another method is to heat the butyl tape with a heat gun/ hair drier or simply use black silicone II window sealant. -Rob
I was able to reuse what was on the door. Have no leaks. Its not very critical to have a complete seal. As far as I know, it's just for road noise and to keep moisture and dust off the panel.
Good video carlos cuadra,i just got the same problem but,my door does not open,make the same sound and keep lock,how can i get the srews on the side,i dont have way,please let me know buddy,thanks,gracias colega!
You have to have tools
Thank you. Very helpful, showing the steps. The new actuator does not work though. Door remains unlocked and the there is a stuttering sound, similar to what was demonstrated at the beginning of this video, but slower. Any thoughts?
Check your voltages. Also, where did you buy your new actuator? Sometimes new does not mean its a good unit. Check for anything that would cause it to bind.
@@InitechAuto Thank you. Got it from an Amazon seller. It got good reviews, is returnable with a 12 month warranty, so felt it was worth a try. You mentioned binding. I did think that when turning the lock w the key it seemed stiff. I transferred the white receive of the lock shaft as you suggested. Thanks again.
@@InitechAuto Thank you. Got it from an Amazon seller. It got good reviews, is returnable with a 12 month warranty, so felt it was worth a try. You mentioned binding. I did think that when turning the lock w the key it seemed stiff. I transferred the white receive of the lock shaft as you suggested. Thanks again.
My door doesn’t open with neither the door handle or key fob do you think it could be the battery voltage?
@@InitechAuto Thank you for the reply Nicoya. The problem was a bad replacement lock actuator. The vendor sent me a another one and it works great. The process was way easier the second time. Your video was very helpful.
Hi Carlos, you have the best video posted for door lock actuator replacement on an e90. I didn’t see you re-install the door latch (outside side of the door, the latch you use to open the door). Can you possibly recall when this, in the sequence, was re-installed? Thanks Jon ) ps, I’m doing this repair this week and simultaneously swapping out the awful stock speakers with Focals).
This was one of my older video's. It does not show me reinstalling the driver's door lock. Missed that. You don't have to remove the outside door handle to replace the latch. Just the lock. Just pay attention to how you remove it and reverse the procedure.
Hello NIcoya! Thanks for sharing this video on fixing the door problem. I have something alike but with the rear door. Is kind of making a noise when I go driving and I kind of think that I have a problem with that part that You just changed; I don't know. Again, when I go and speed the car the back door behind the driver makes that weird noise. So I have to change that same part that You just did? Your opinion will be appreciated. Thank You my friend Nicoya!!! Have a good time and take care !!!
Do the doors lock and unlock with the fob? Your problem may be something different from what you are describing
Really? Yes! it is that the car locks the doors every time I go drive but is not locking the one behind Me. It stays open. You are right!!! I will tell the mechanic over here. Now I have a better idea. Great! Thanks again!!!
Thank you very much
Great video. You did it very good. But you should be more gentle with the interior door trim panel.....you first removed it with one hand, dropping the right side and scratching it to the door trim panel step and then brutally dropped the interior trim panel faced down on door trim panel step. No wonder it scratched. You even wonder about it at the end of the video.
The damage to the trim was not caused be me. The trim is not as delicate as you think. But I suppose in a perfect world you could lay things out on a blanket.
NYC video, I ave d same problem on my bmw 320 driver door. I cannot unlock it. My lock makes d same annoying noise, popping up nd down wid high speed. Plz suggest me hw to fix it
Great Video . thanks. i have to do mine now. 2008 335i same problem
Can you do a video on how to replace the rear door lock actuators or is it basically the same s the front?
+latnimge I would think it's just about the same thing.
Great vid i have the exact same problem but my door wont open at all.. how would i remove the panel when my door wont open?
You should still be able to loosen the panel enough to get your hands in there and open the door. If not, I'm not sure what to do.
Big help , thanks much
Quicl question, we replaced all the fuses for the doors and replaced drivers side door lock actuator. When installed. The doors lock, then unlock but won't lock again. What would be the next issue we would investigate ?
Check for voltage at the door lock. If the fuse is blown again. Then you have a wiring problem.
Thank you so, sooo much! waiting for my lock piece to come... know what to do now.
Update, the person who sold me the block was for the rear drivers side.... with some modding and changing parts from old to new... got it working :P thanks so much! your video helped.
Glad everything worked out.
thanks you helped me out on my 08 335i.
Glad it was helpful to you..
did you use the BMW lock tensioner?
how did you figure that the door lock actuator was bad.?? my car has all lock's work but the driver door only lock's but wont unlock.? is this what was the problem here.??
I really wished you would have given more concise details. You left a few important tips out. Made my life hell.
Sorry it did not go well.. These were some of my first videos.
Thx much for the video. Saved me $$$$.
Thanks!! Just about to replace mine.
Hi
I have BMW320i 2005
The Driver door its easy to lock bye remote key but, I can not unlock by remote Key,If you try to unlock manually it will Open. Could you tel me what the problem??
Sam From Oman
Regards
Do you remember the part number or OEM number? or the website where you bought the parts to replace it?
Marky Mark
I went to the dealer and overpaid. Try autohausaz.com
I see. Thank you.
thanks for the video.. Helps alot man.
nice vdo thanks will try to get the part and replaced it my driver side and rear passenger won't unlock.
For a front passenger door how would you remove the lock assembly if it doesn't have one? I'm still on that step to loosen the actuator.
+rclikesrice, I haven't attempted yet but will also need to know how to before i go ahead! I hope someone will give us an answer to your question.
Duramax, Its a very common problem with these cars. You most likely have the same problem. It's harder for the actuator to unlock than lock. The drivers door is the most used of them all.
Where did you guys got spare actuator? I can't find any around here
www.amazon.com/APDTY-Anti-Theft-Description-51-21-7-202-143-51217202143/dp/B01N0AQXAB/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=lock+actuator&qid=1560647780&s=automotive&sr=1-1&vehicle=2008-31-178-20--1-6-7-9037-2267-1-1---1&vehicleName=2008+BMW+328i
The dealer should have them as well.
www.autohausaz.com/
Excellent how to thank you sir
Brilliant video thanks for taking time to upload this.
Thank you friend it fixed
Hello i need a tutorial if its possible for the right side door , the paasenger door to remove the panel.
+Kevin Martinez
That's the same thing.
He forgot to mention a third screw under the interior door handle that you have to unscrew before removing the panel.
Personally, I removed the lock by the upper hole, it was easier.
I have a 128i. How do I know if the child safety lock is on or off?
Not sure on the 128 model. But check these links out.
BMW X5 Child Safety Latch on rear doors - Introduction Test(HD)
HOW TO Child Proof Car Door 97-03 BMW 5-SERIES E39 528I 540I M5
You're the man!!!
How much was the part?
How'd you get the big foam piece under the actuator out the way?
Jay Perkins You mean the panel insulator? It just peels off. I has a tar like clue all the way around it. Not really sure what your question is.
Carlos Cuadra at 4:56 the second screw you take off goes to a big foam piece.. How did you get that out?
Carlos Cuadra nevermind lol I jus saw its the one to the right.. I'll reply again if I have an issue..
How do u disconnect the wires behind the actuator to remove it?
On the model I was working on. It had no wires on the back side of the actuator..
Carlos Cuadra Thanks Carlos, I was talking about the wire that you show is your video 4:7 , its kinda attached with actuator, and I was wondering how to unhook it from actuator.
Oh! The door handle rod. You just pull it toward you. Just stick your hand in there and wiggle it around..It should come off.
Carlos Cuadra I did took out the door handle rod but still there was this cable that connects to actuator and I couldn't figure it out how to remove it..
Can you send me a picture of what your are talking about?
The window remains in place.
Would this be my problem too - ie, the door(s) won't unlock with the fob - and even the button on the dash won't unlock shit. But the key fob does lock the doors. Is that weird?
Most likely. But make sure you check your fuses first. Seem to be a common problem with these cars.
Do you have a list of the tools used?
Travis King No, I do not..I might have mentioned some in the video but I don't remember. These were some of my first video's.. So they are not as good as I would like them to be. Work in progress. :-)
so here's a question: how did you open your door? - So my car has the exact same problem. I have all the replacement parts and tools to do the job. My issue is that I can not open my door from the inside or out side of the car. I have tried using my key and other methods of opening the door but it wont budge. I don't think I will be able to take off my door panel with the door closed. any suggestions?
It's unfortunate that you can't open your door. But you should be able to get the panel off anyways, but it will be a little more difficult. Once you have the panel off. You should be able to figure out a way to open the door. Good Luck!
Slight Open the backdoor n between the front n rear door, on the side if the front door, ull see a black rubber button, press that down and use the interior handle to open the door, do it at the same time
Aries Valmonte yeah i got it done then just traded it in for a BMW 2011 M3
Rodolfo Vengoechea lol well I'm gonna have to find an alternative bcuz that's an expensive solution
If you separate your key fob into the two parts, one part is an actual key. Use this to insert it into the door and turn it left and right. My remotes wouldn't work, nor the interior/exterior handles, but this method allowed me to open the door successfully, as this key connects directly to the lock assembly which goes into the actuator and physcially moves the lock open/closed.
Do I need to have the window rolled down?
Sergio Goveo Rolled up.
nice music bro!
I'm not sure how I did it. But when I slipped the key lock into the door, it seemed stiff. So pushed it into place and tightened the screw. Then ten outside door handle wouldn't open and the key wouldn't turn. I pulled the lock back out and it was destroyed. It broke because it wasn't lined up right. Please tell people how to line up the lock correctly to install it. It's now going to cost me $500 for the lock.
How long did it take to do that?
A couple hours.
Was that your first time? If you were to do it again today, how long would it take you to do
one side?
Hung Nguyen That was my first time. It would still take me about 2 hours per side. I'm not in any hurry.
Bless u
Thanks!
How much $ is that part?
103.00 from Amazon
I changed the door actuator because it went bad now I replaced it with a new one but my door doesn’t open anymore please help
Check your work. Do you have power getting to the actuator? Check fuses. You may even have a defective actuator.
Nicoya I fixed the problem just now lol, it was because I didn’t install the cable for the door handle correctly
@@michaelpast19 Glad you figured it out.
Nicoya me too I can finally rest and have piece of mind
EXCELLENT COME OVER TO MY PLACE IN LA , TO HELP ME I'LL PAY YOU TOO...NICE...DENIEL.
Crap what do you do if it won't unlock. Meaning I have to do dukes of Hazzard to get out. Then I can I fix it.
You should still be able to remove the door panel and get it open. At least be able to get your arm in there.
What goes wrong with actuator, can I repair stock. What breaks in there.?
@@martinp.cadillackid3408
Not sure what breaks...I just replace the part.
Video is pointed on to the ground a lot of the video during replacement.
Old video. Not one of my best.
Can’t believe they wanted 746$ to do this 😤
You skipped some footage
Like what? Some of these videos are old. Not my best recording jobs.
Can anyone help me out? I see the part where he popped out the wire that's connected to the actuator, inside the door paper, but there are 2 other black plastic pieces that's connected to and I have no idea how to remove it, don't want to break it. Anyone have any idea?
You should just be able to pop it off with your fingers. Are you working on the same vehicle as mine?
Yeah I'm working on a 335i e90 but front passenger side. I was able to pop off the wire with the white plastic and metal springs but Idk how to disconnect the black T shape plastics thats also connected to the actuator. They r the ones that's the velcro lookin things are tied around to
You probably figured this out already, but the other 2 black t-shaped pieces hold the wiring for the exterior LED illumination under the door lock. I was able to snap one off without breaking it. Not so much with the 2nd one. I just made sure the wiring was out of the way of moving things when I put it back together.
boost4fun I figured it out, the velcro looking wires wrapped around the T shape plastic can be unwrapped
Lol yeah I finally decided to pull on it after 3 days and that's when I realized it can be unwrapped
Dude it’s not a coupe
Who said anything about a coupe? And what difference does it make? The repair is the same.
@@InitechAuto in the beginning of the video it’s 2008 bmw 328 coupe ?
@@josemontoya4369 I meant sedan. No differance with the repair.
@@josemontoya4369Who complains about something like this? You should be happy that he made the video.