BMW X5 Door Won't Open. Correction: Insert Rod 10" not 8" as stated.

How to open a locked door with the failure of both exterior and interior door handle release. This video is credited to an Irish lad on the BMW E-53 Forum Xoutpost.com. Member BrianX54.4is provides detailed explanations with pics:
xoutpost.com/b...
1) Bend one inch of the the tip of the rod 80 degrees with pliers or crescent wrench
2) At the ten inch mark from the bent tip, use electrical tape to mark 10 inches
3) Open window and insert rod next to interior trim 10" inches towards the door lock actuator
4) Slightly pull outside door release handle 1/2"
5) When rod contacts correct position, door release handle will move in with every push of the rod
6) Push the rod down until you hear the door lock actuator click . The door should now open.
7) Close window before disconnecting wire harness to remove door lock actuator
8) Remove the door lock actuator held by the three T-30 Torx screws
9) Inspect springs for play and lubricate all moving parts
10) You may need to replace door lock actuator if springs are broken or lubrication fails

[@romeoaveria5900]

I just did mine. I did remove the window weather strip. It allows me more space and I was able to the part that you push. I nudge it a little bit and open the door from the inside. Thank you for the video it gave me an idea on how to open my door.

[@dahud406]

Thanks for saving me frustration however the fix is sudden past this but i noticed that when installing the new latch be sure that the CABLE ISNT RESTING AGAINST the machanism because this is what jams the door lock and does not allow the door to open (SIC).

[@goodamnesia]

I recently discovered that inserting the rod down only 4" will also release the cable to open the door. Good Luck!

[@Alex-ti3uf]

This doesn’t work. The rod will not go down in between the glass and the window track.

[@goodamnesia]

Make sure the window is completely down. Insert the rod in the corner so it wont touch the glass. I just did this yesterday and was able to open the door. Try sliding the rod only 3-4" down instead of the 8-10" I mentioned in the video. I recently discovered that 3-4" to release the cable is all you need to unlock the door. Good Luck!