Checking overtravel at outside handle:

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 16 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW 330Ci, 2005 BMW 330xi, 2005 BMW 330i, 2005 BMW 330Ci, and 2004 BMW 330xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Close rotary striker lock with a screwdriver,
open rotary striker lock with outside door handle (1),
outside door handle (1) must be able to open further by measurement (A),
if measurement (A) is obtained, then OK.
if measurement (A) is not obtained, readjust rotary striker lock and carry out overtravel check,
if measurement (A) is still not obtained, you must replace door lock.

A min. 2 mm

Fig 1: Checking Overtravel At Outside Handle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

CAUTION: Door lock does not have to be greased until after 100, 000 km.
Door lock and door striker (lock wedge) must not be greased.

Replacement only:

Lift out lock (1) and detach Bowden cable (2) from fixture (3).

Remove Bowden cable nipple (4) from lever (5).

NOTE: The Bowden cable mount for the inside door handle is the same for all construction versions. The construction version up to 09/2000 is shown in the illustration.

Fig 2: Removing Bowden Cable Nipple

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement only:

Turn linkage for locking knob (1) and detach from lever (2).

Fig 3: Turning Linkage For Locking Knob

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.