Stuck door handle

[doc47]

New guy here. I didn't see a Repairs and Maintenance Forum, so I'm not sure this is the right one to post on.
Went out to the car -- '98 Z3 convertible -- and the driver's door handle lifts, hits a hard point, and won't open the door. The inside handle does, although it feels more difficult than usual. No problem with the passenger-side door.
Has anyone else had this problem? Any suggestions on a fix?
Thanks in advance.

 

[mwpe]

Mine has got a bit hard to open occasionally, just needs a bit of lubrication.

 

[jonco]

- as previously mentioned start with lubrication. There are mechanical linkages from both handles and push button to door lock solenoid - see
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=CH72-EUR---Z3-BMW-Z3 1.9&diagId=41_1066
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=CH72-EUR---Z3-BMW-Z3 1.9&diagId=41_1630
You'll need to take door card off to do it properly.

 

[doc47]

Mine has got a bit hard to open occasionally, just needs a bit of lubrication.

I suspected that, but expect that it has to go inside the door. Is there much of a trick to pulling the inner door panel? Procedure?

 

[jonco]

I suspected that, but expect that it has to go inside the door. Is there much of a trick to pulling the inner door panel? Procedure?

I thought there was a `how to' in articles but can't find it at the moment - this thread may help https://zroadster.org/threads/door-cards-tips-for-removal-refitting-lube-anyone.12856/#post-203817

If you google it there's probably a You tube video that covers it.

 

[mwpe]

https://www.pelicanparts.com/BMW/te...eplacement/71-BODY-Door_Panel_Replacement.htm

 

[doc47]

- as previously mentioned start with lubrication. There are mechanical linkages from both handles and push button to door lock solenoid - see
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=CH72-EUR---Z3-BMW-Z3 1.9&diagId=41_1066
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=CH72-EUR---Z3-BMW-Z3 1.9&diagId=41_1630
You'll need to take door card off to do it properly.

I agree. How do I take the door card off?

 

[jonco]

I agree. How do I take the door card off?

See previous links - particularly @mwpe 's from Pelican parts.