How to Change a BMW Door Handle

1. Remove the plastic cap that conceals the screw that holds the housing to the door panel. Use a flat head screwdriver to pry the cap off.
2. Remove the screw that holds the door handle housing to the door panel with a screwdriver. The housing should now come loose.
3. Pull the housing gently away from the door panel. The door handle will still be connected to the release cable, so only pull it as far as the cable will allow you to.
4. Disconnect the door release cable with a pair of long needle nose pliers. The cable is fastened with a hook that needs to be wiggled and pulled off of the large metal hook on the door handle. You should now be able to remove the door handle and housing from the door panel and set it aside.
5. Install the new assembly by hooking the door release cable over the hook on the new door handle assembly. It will help to turn the housing 180-degrees (upside down) and hook the cable on. Once the cable is hooked on, turn the assembly back around, being careful not to scratch the leather.
6. Place the housing partially back in the door panel. Place the cable in the guide groove of the housing. This cable must be installed in the groove in order for the door to open. Push the door handle into place in the door panel.
7. Reinstall the screw that holds the door handle housing to the door panel. Reinstall the plastic cover that conceals the screw. Test the door handle to ensure that it is working correctly.