[ny330xi]

Replaced my driver side front lock actuator this weekend using the below DIY:

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=477507

Plugged in the new actuator, pushed the center lock button, and none of the doors locked/unlocked. Tried the key fob, same result. I could hear the new actuator trying to actuate (?).

I then unplugged the new part, and all the other doors worked again. With the original part plugged in, all the other door locks functioned.

I read several places that the actuators need to be replaced in pairs, including on BavAuto. Plenty of posts here however seem to indicate that people have replaced just one.

Any thoughts???

FYI -it's NOT necessary to remove the window glass. With the glass all the way up, remove the two 10mm bolts for the black window cable guide to give enough room to pull the actuator out.

[BMW_SYNERGY]

I replaced just the driver side actuator on my e90 no prob. I did buy the kit that comes with both since it was cheaper that way, but I just replaced the broken one and kept the other for the day it goes out as well.

I would recommend making sure you got the key lock rod inserted into the correct slot on the actuator. The rod is notched, not sure if you saw that part.

[ny330xi]

Originally Posted by BMW_SYNERGY

I replaced just the driver side actuator on my e90 no prob. I did buy the kit that comes with both since it was cheaper that way, but I just replaced the broken one and kept the other for the day it goes out as well.

I would recommend making sure you got the key lock rod inserted into the correct slot on the actuator. The rod is notched, not sure if you saw that part.

Interesting. I guess I'll assume the new part is bad.


Can you elaborate on the bolded part? Assuming you're talking about the exterior lock cylinder/rod? If so, the lock operates mechanically, so I have to think it went back in correctly.

[noah.s]

I hope you get some help. I’m going to be replacing my front drivers actuator when the parts come in.

[ny330xi]

Originally Posted by noah.s

I hope you get some help. I’m going to be replacing my front drivers actuator when the parts come in.

Going back at it this weekend. Will report back.

[BMWster]

I only replaced my driverside actuator and everything worked fine. Double check your fittings.

[E90B]

Originally Posted by BMW_SYNERGY

I replaced just the driver side actuator on my e90 no prob. I did buy the kit that comes with both since it was cheaper that way, but I just replaced the broken one and kept the other for the day it goes out as well.

I would recommend making sure you got the key lock rod inserted into the correct slot on the actuator. The rod is notched, not sure if you saw that part.

Where did you buy your kit?

[BMW_SYNERGY]

Originally Posted by E90B

Where did you buy your kit?

I purchased mine through my local dealership since they had it in stock. Cost me about $65 for the pair as opposed to double for one. Part number is 51 21 7 263 086.

[noah.s]

Just got finished replacing my driver side front actuator and all is well. I got my actuators from FCP Euro and everything works as it should.

[DUI Elite]

Is the front actuator the same as the rear actuator? Only finding left and right front kits in my searches

[ny330xi]

Never updated this, but after a couple/three tries, I did get it to work with just the driver replacement. I think my issue initially was that I never latched the door (because I hadn't put it all back together) and the center lock/unlock button doesn't operate when the driver door is open. Live and learn.