[Genesius]

My drivers side door handle has become really stiff. You have to really pull the inside handle and im a bit scared of snapping it. The outside handle is the same, it has to be pulled right up hard sometimes. Also the ouside handle occationally needs a nudge to go back in flush.

I did search on here for 'stiff door' but found only info on door locks. I need to know about the handles.

What is the most likely cause of this. I havnt got time to work on the car until weekends so if there is a part that i need i would like to get it now so i can fit it saturday otherwise it will have to wait until the following weekend.

Thanks

 

[billywhizz1984]

Generally all you need is loads of WD40. Take the panel off and spray along all the lock parts and work them back & forward.

 

[Genesius]

Ok I'll give it a go at the weekend. Thanks billy

 

[daved328i]

Id say before taking the door card of spray White grease in the door catch mechinism the bit that latchs onto the door when closed, do both sides of the hook and also round the back of that housing. WD40 would work but you will be doing it again next winter.

Open and close the door a few times to work the grease in, this might be easier with the window down.

It seems as the door catch becomes older and any grease or lubrication from factory wears off and the catch does not quite touch the micro switch on the door pillar allowing the door to open before the window moves when the door handle is pulled.

Hope this helps should be a 5 min job.

 

[phileas fogg]

My pals compact was the same, It wasn't down to the handle. I adjusted the door and the latch on the inside of the door on the car body and that sorted it. Lean on your door when opening it and if it opens easier/normal then yours will need adjusting too

 

[Genesius]

i will try at the weekend, thank you

 

[delboy37]

when i worked for specialist cars stevenage i used to be the car park boy i.e. any car park fix's were mine like wing mirror replacement re coding stereos and resetting service lights useing trip computer etc including greaseing door handles my e46 coupe drivers side ones the same feel like you have to pull it clean off to open the door, tis a simple fix although i would recommend using a spray grease like the white grease daved328i suggested as it will last longer wd40 is a good penetrating fluid but long term lube viscosity isnt as good, get a can with a straw alos making it easier, there is a grommit through catch side of door approx the size of a *** end to cover an allen or torx bolt this removes the handle a bit from the door to assist in greasing!

 

[delboy37]

YouTube - Quick video on how to adjust bmw e46 door handles

 

[delboy37]

dont try this way!!!

YouTube - DIY BMW door opening

 

[Genesius]

Ok so I sorted this. I got some silicone lubricant and I sprayed it on the bit on the door pillar and also in the lock and latch. Then I pulled the handle up and sprayed it under the handle. Wiggled it about a bit and now I can open the door with my little finger.

Thank you for all your help.

 

[billywhizz1984]

Glad you got sorted. Your approach with silicone spray is a better option than WD40.