Removal and installation the outer door handle (BMW 3 Series E46)

Removal

1. Remove the lock cylinder, refer to the relevant section.



2. Pull door handle "1" outward and move it back about 2 mm. Press the handle inward about 4 mm and pull it back.

This way the lock mechanism is fixed. If the door handle only pulls back and is released when removed, the lock mechanism must be fixed manually, refer to the "Installation" subsection.

Installation

3. Check guide "2" and support "1", replace the handle if necessary.

4. If the door handle is being replaced, remove the handle seal and replace it.

Checking/adjusting the position of the lock mechanism

To install the outside door handle, the lock mechanism must be locked. This means that the lever "4" is in the position as shown in the illustration.

If the lever "4" as shown in the illustration is inside, the outer door handle cannot be installed. In this case, the lock mechanism must be installed in the installation position, i.e. fixed.

5. Fix the lock mechanism: Insert screwdriver "5" through hole "6" and press lever "4" outward, pull back a little and fix.

6. Insert the handle with the guide into the hole.

7. Insert the handle with the receiving part behind the lever "4" and press on the door.

8. Move the handle approximately 4 mm forward, towards the loop, and fix it.