BMW E46 Door Lock Issues (GM5 module removal)

Door locks not working? Sometimes the doors don't unlock? Sometimes the door won't lock? Remote unlock not working? Locked inside your car? All these issues among other ones point to the BMW GM5 module that controls the central locking system among others. Check out www.bmwgm5.com/ for more info on the GM5 module and if you would like to get yours repaired. I am not sponsored or affiliated with them but I have used them before and have never had an issue. You can also search on the forums for people that have used Scott's service.
Link for the relays if you plan on doing it yourself:
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Disclaimer: Some links will contain affiliate links. Due to factors beyond the control of ShopLifeTV, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. ShopLifeTV assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. ShopLifeTV recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of ShopLifeTV, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not ShopLifeTV.

[@timbre7999]

THE BEST GM5 video ever. Very nice presentation as always. Love your white wagon by the way.

[@ShopLifeTV]

Thanks a lot man!

[@BobG-oc2np]

Wow. You are REALLY good at these videos. All of your short, extra comments about small details about the bracket locking, screw placement etc. that are sorely needed that most others don't take the time to include make all the difference in the world. This is likely the lost informative and useful How To on KZbin. Keep them coming.

[@razorrich]

More very useful E46 info guys! Door locks malfunction brings back not so fond memory of my E90. We were locked inside and everyone had to climb through the windows in order to exit. And this occurred at the BMW dealership, lol!

[@ShopLifeTV]

Haha the e90 eats actuators for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I've had to rescue some cases where the actuator broke in the locked position and taking that door panel off with the door closed was a pain lol

[@Monsieur405]

uh oh, so this same issue plagues e90's?

[@razorrich]

@@ShopLifeTV LOL! That’s really nuts and glad it was just me. On a different note, Shawn Robertson uploaded few vids today. His car is sicker by each passing year! Please give Snowflake some love.

[@razorrich]

@@Monsieur405 I believe the E9X are worse.

[@Ramiromtz95]

@@ShopLifeTV how did you remove the actuator with the door locked? I'm having the same issue right now?

[@ryanerickson1439]

Awesome job on the video, ty for making it. I've recently bought a used from a guy who totally screwed up the wiring from the front bumber all the way to the back 02 e53 x5 and its been a total nightmare. Your video was one of the few that ive seen that explains everything well rather than some that explains nothing or spends forever overexplaining simple crap and ur camera work is excellent as well. Ty again for your time to help

[@DebtFreeCars]

Great video! I’m doing this now. I changed my window regulator and suddenly no windows work. And thought a fuse blown but now i know why my locks, windows and wipers all stopped working

[@merchantseamancommunity8302]

Excellent video. You really take your time and clearly explain what needs to be done. I did everything to try to figure out why my doors wouldn’t open with the key or the unlock button inside the car. Thanks for your hard work and time making these videos.

[@james_german]

It makes me so happy to hear an American say solder instead of sodder

[@jerryfreilich1720]

One of the best automotive DYI videos I've ever seen!! Wow... excellent. Thanks so much!

[@justkai9060]

Lol I got 20 years out of mine but sounds like it’s done for after watching this

[@david7647]

Thankyou for such a brilliantly detailed and explained procedure 🙏😊 I just bought an e46 323ci 1999 with an unlocking issue Thankyou again 🙏

[@Tangledbawlz]

Please do a diy video for when you change the interior. Like how to find either a donor car like you did with your other one on your channel, or how to find one in good condition😁 thank you and I love your videos

[@ShopLifeTV]

I was planning on it! Already have most of the components, need to source a lot of the stuff for the rear hatch/trunk section of the wagon. Will try to make a few DIYs on the whole process. Thanks!

[@Tangledbawlz]

@@ShopLifeTV I just did a full interior replacement from a donor car a few weeks ago, and resold all the extra parts, and made money back. It looks so much better Black than Tan to me

[@esabaliauskas]

I have the same issue, the relay needs changing. Cant find a local guy yet who would be willing to resolder it without breaking it. Thanks for the video! :)

[@bdozer3398]

Did you ever find this guy info. I need mine fix

[@davidportillo3091]

Can you please send me the address for a place where they can fixed it.

[@lsworonoff]

Thanks for another one of your fantastic, professional DIY Videos. You never cease to amaze me. BTW: Scott out in California is an awesome guy and has fixed my Modules twice in the past many years. Keep up the excellent work. You are a great humanitarian! Warm Regards to all. Airline Captain and BMW Fanatic. Larry

[@yncpollo]

Hey can I ask you what’s the website?

[@Gonzo541]

Had this issue for a bit on a E46 sedan. All fuses replaced and finally removed Body control module for GM5 relays. A professional did the work and turn around was super quick. The car wont have that problem the rest of its life, really common i guess

[@TRM1294]

very much appreciate detailed vid showing exactly where and how to withdraw and reinstall the offending module. Thank you.

[@seanlenahan5999]

Looks like we the exact same wagon doing the exact same thing haha I'll send my gm5 unit to the guy you recommended. Thank you!

[@geckonia]

My 2000 sport wagon has this exact issue... so thank you!

[@ShopLifeTV]

Glad I was able to help!

[@CyclingTX]

Your videos are gold. Such clear explanations. Thank you.

[@eddieflores2852]

Thank you brother!!! Always nice to get free knowledge!!!

[@Nico_335i_DCT]

Very nice DIY brother and sister! Cheers, Nico.

[@kirklandfunz]

My gm5 is doing its job but my key fobs wont work after replacing batteries

[@MarcoASeveriano]

I’ve done this about 2 years ago as a 17 year old it was difficult to desolder, I messed up some pins but jump them from other pins and everything got fixed. I have no experience soldering but managed even though my hands get very shaky.

[@ShopLifeTV]

I have shaky hands as well lol but you are correct you can definitely jump many of the pins if you pull the contacts out of the board. A lot of the pins connect to each other as it is. One day if I get the time I will try and make a diagram to show these connections for future repairs.

[@lambproducts206]

I called this guy Scott and he was seriously unprofessional. Asked me 25 questions and told me I needed a specific BMW reader then said he couldn't help me. I wanted to get this thing rebuilt ANYWAY as to not worry about it in the future. What a JERK!

[@stylerunner2959]

Thank you for this! Very informative

[@ShopLifeTV]

Glad it was helpful!

[@wisdomfiawornu1816]

The door won’t open. The Booth won’t open either. Prying the door open and pressing the central lock with a metal doesn’t help either. How do I open the door? It’s an E46. Would be very great to get some suggestions as to how to handle this.

[@SRMHIPHOP]

Scott boutta be busyyyyy

[@ShopLifeTV]

Lol hopefully he doesn't run out of relays!

[@bdozer3398]

@@ShopLifeTV Do you have Scott's info? I need to fix mine. Thank you for your time

[@filipgeorgsson7409]

@@ShopLifeTV Hello, For me everything works just fine manually, both with the key and the button next to the hazard lights. I’ve tried to resync the key fob, but it still doesn’t work. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks in advance!

[@jerieltiu4055]

My e46 dooor lock works only from the inside. But key fob doesnt do anything. Already replace battery and tried reprogram. Is it the gm5 or the antenna? Is its antenna where can i find it?

[@DebtFreeCars]

Can you show us how to test if power is going to the gm5?

[@stripemaster9]

P/n of the relays? Before you rip the dash apart have those ready

[@jenny3000ful]

Hello my friend I bought an e46 and the door locks don't work with the key remote, tried to reprogram it but no luck. Everything works fine when I manually lock it but not with the remote please advise me on this thanks

[@andrews1654]

Did you ever figure this out? Same issue cheers

[@filipgeorgsson7409]

Where either of you able to fix this issue?

[@jenny3000ful]

no @@filipgeorgsson7409

[@thesneek5297]

@@andrews1654i have The same issue i bought A new central locking sistem (20eu) and installed it

[@IDontKnowLuis]

@@thesneek5297my problem is that it will lock but won’t unlock unless I pull the door handle from inside and my key doesn’t work at all

[@bobafittness1346]

I needed this, thanks Jason!

[@randyfleet9968]

I don't know who you're trying to kid. It NEVER goes that easy! Nice video anyway. And I hope you didn't jinx my E46, it's 15 yrs old! If I live as old as my dad it has to last 25 more years!

[@ShopLifeTV]

Hahaha the power of editing!! This one was pretty straightforward though. Good luck with your E46!

[@w.j.bendellr.c.flying.1037]

Great Work ⭐️Great Video, ……. Keep them coming. Thanks

[@neildavda9577]

Thank for posting this good quality video!

[@matchstickdesignco]

GM5 module also controls the windshield wipers, so while it's out for repair, you can't drive in the rain.

[@mry82]

Just what I needed. Thanks!

[@GarrettGiuffre-w3p]

I never had a issue with anything related to the central locking up in till I lost and had to replace my key. The new key would not program the doors, I attempted another key fob nothing. Anyway to check if it's receiving the key frequency?

[@flexer122]

brooooo you have no idea how much yo have helped me with my car i even did my own swap, but im having an issue im only getting 12 volts to my battery and my alternator (RECENTLY Changed myself from known bad alt) can keep the car alive with the postive terminal removal test to see if the car stays on, i assume this could be 1 of the reasons (Gm5 module) why my car isnt sending the full 13-14volts to my battery any other suggestions on what it could be also, i pulled every single fuse out of my car to see if any were popped none of them were but what was weird is that i pulled one 5 fuse put it back in and my passenger window barely went down did it aain and same thing happened but none of the others did any suggestions would help greatly man! hope you can get back to me soon i know how busy u are, keep up the videos man yo are the only reason i still have my bmw and dont want to get rid of it

[@houseofno]

It takes BMW to screw up door locks and power windows with just one electronic board. VW: hold my beer. You havent heard about our $800 windshield wiper modules going bad.

[@ShopLifeTV]

BMW is very consistent making minor faulty things in every chassis that keeps the ownership exciting lol VAG cars have their own host of issues hahaha

[@cedrickeshishian8402]

what if all my doors lock but my drivers door doesnt lock? I am still able to open the driver door after locking the car

[@genocide_g35]

Word of advice just go to the junk yard and take it out literally took me 10 minutes in and out this works 100% tho

[@kobedaniels4692]

Hey brother I’ve had an issue with my doors of my 318i e46 sedan and only my door opens and closes but the rest don’t open at all they just stay closed, and I’ve bought a new gm5 modul and it didn’t work so I’m just coming here to ask what are the other reasons why my doors won’t open IVE taken it to mechanics and they reckon it’s too hard for them so now I’m back to square 1

[@noahdaniels6340]

So you said if every other door unlocks but the one then it’s the actuator, how do I tell on an m3 lol. Everything else unlocks (trunk, gas panel, passenger door) the door will lock once unlocked with the fob but will not unlock with the fob. Door opens just fine if you open it from the inside. Gonna sound weird, but at first it started that the door would not lock with the fob and then it decided to change its mind I guess

[@dav1dizzle]

Can you just buy a working module and direct swap it?

[@skate5930]

THANK YOU

[@dazzling68]

Thank you - great video

[@jonowen6612]

Great video. Thanks!

[@officialyungtwizted3858]

Soo.. today I got mad at my 2001 330ci e46 manual... and kicked the door shut pretty hard and nooowww. When I put the key it and turn to the left to unlocked the car it don't work. But, when I use the key to lock and unlock I can hear the lock trying to unlock and lock but it won't budge so I hold the down button and all the windows open up and I pull the handle. How do.i fix my mistake? I got mad cus of a coolant leak again from the radiator drain plug.

[@QRS365]

how do i get the service engine soon light off on a 2004 bmw x3?

[@PhuPhillipTrinh]

if i can't get into the car and the key cylinder lock is busted along with the gm5 module being toast, is the last resort is to break the window? we tried boosting the car with a battery but the trunk access was not available and both the key and the buttons don't work.

[@Asz_]

i had this problem too. idk if u got it resolved but we fixed it by drilling out the old cylinder and then forcing the lock to open within the door and then install a new lock cylinder and now it works fine

[@PhuPhillipTrinh]

@@Asz_ interesting! we were going to call a locksmith specialist to open the door for us then we can at least repair the lock cylinder but I guess drilling would make sense! we haven't done it yet but are waitng for a sunny day to do the repair :)

[@SlugWorksAuto]

hi bro great video, i’m having the same issue on my 2000 bmw 323i all doors all completely locked won’t work with the key or anything i took off the door panel and tried pulling up the lock but it won’t say up only 2 window works witch it’s the front two and all interior lights work i was wondering if it’s still the module your talking about in the video that’s the problem correct?

[@aknduman6819]

Is this problem valid for all e46 series? Or Is this a problem that is not often encountered in these vehicles?

[@martinez221704]

I tried replacing the modules messed up some of the points, just got one from the junkyard.

[@whisp3rone828]

Ok buddy I know I'm going off page here but how do one take off a 2002 E46 (325xi) front driver side differential when there is absolutely NO video(s) to guide. Since you always have such great content how about some help to the people on this one. Thanks in advance.

[@hmmidk5129]

Dude ur vids are so helpful! Quick question bout ur e46 ls3 build, what radiator did ya’ll go with?

[@jurijowsienko]

Hi, i've got 03/2000 323 E46 coupe - the problem is that my actuator actually works (it locks and unlocks - you can see pin going up and down and hear it clicking) but the doors still won't open (the outside and inside handle doesn't work). After approx 2h locking/unlocking with the pilot it managed to finally release so i replaced my door actuator but the problem is the same - just after locking my car doors are stuck, you can hear clearly that the door actuator works it unlocks but handles don't work. Can it be GM5 module failure?

[@mikolizazi]

So my driver side window stopped working while the rest of them work just fine. And central locking is also fine. Could this be a relay on the gm5 module or just the motor? Carly says: 1. GM: Relay for power window, driver door. 2. GM: Power windows: Motor or relay, driver door.

[@bimmerDallasBikersUnitedDBUCan]

I bought a 01 wagon was sitting for 8 months, dead battery, only driver doors unlocks and only passenger window rolls down any help with this

[@Yaroslav_Tselovanskyi]

Is there a more reliable relay we can put instead of the old design?

[@viscarra40]

My 2001 bmw 325i sedan keeps unlocking by its self and all the windows go down while being locked and also my key fob won't program. Any help on this issue?

[@randalscandal1588]

Awesome video. Very detailed, great camera work. Will the trunk unlock with the key without the module?

[@customconnections2425]

Yes it will😎👍🏾

[@rodfrancis5853]

Great video. Would this be the same for my 2002 e53 X5. Currently has locked doors which refuse to unlock but car starts and runs fine but have to climb in through windows!?

[@tonybowker5293]

Could you point me in the right direction .I have a bmw e53 with the m57 engine .When I accelerate ,the engine has a rattling sound .

[@fury9290]

If I Press the lock button and close and after open again... This GM5 has the issue?

[@xiaoma466]

I love your video! For my car e46 m3 convertible, my trunk can be opened from the trunk latch, but not from the key. I suspect the problem is at the gm5 module. Do you have any suggestions?

[@Monsieur405]

I took mine to a local board repair joint, along with two replacement relays. They fixed it and no more issues. cost me like $10.

[@SRMHIPHOP]

Yeah we have an electronics repair place nearby...I wonder if they're capable. Though Scott has been so helpful with this fix for the community.

[@salkodinamitas7681]

The gm5 module is activating the door for the gas fill because mine is not working it only unlocks but wont every time close somtimes it does most of the time dont what to do ?

[@paulgoh2352]

Thank you Jason/ShopLifeTV, this "sometimes" for all doors of E46 is exactly my problem now. Usually worked in the morning, and then issue started in the warm day after 1 hr drive. your video and guidances are super good. as trying to order the relay, however, the one on amazon is unavailable now, would you suggest the replacement model# of this relay? Thanks again.

[@paulgoh2352]

>> UPDATE

[@gustavovasquez557]

THIS WAS A GOOD VIDEO BUT I NEED THE ADRESS TO REPAIR MU GM3 FROM MY BMW 740 il 2000 BECAUSE I HAVE A WIPER ISSUES THANK

[@darkzeronightmare623]

I'm thinking to send my e46 coupe gm5 module out because windows start to go down while I hold up... or just don't respond

[@mohamadaboaffan]

The problem I have that control device sometimes works after Whoa car and re-open before the operation, also when re-programming key works the lock, but if driving a car and after that I stopped and I wanted to try to lock the car, it will not work again, and I notice sometimes when the works warning lights It works parked suddenly, can you help me

[@E36andE46vlog]

My trunk works with my keys, the doors NOT. Without the key doors normaly open en close, no lock. GM5 or reciever??

[@johnnycash1365]

I need to change my drivers door because of a major dent. Do i need to swap anything from my door over to the new one regarding the electrics or can i simply change like for like?

[@tareqzakarneh221]

I have 2007 x3 , it says k bus line , I cant see the GM5 on my scan tool or SRS, CAS , Light modules . Whats the resistance must be on these relays ?

[@jaime9228]

Hey bro i have a 535xi but my transmission is acting up the battery went dead and then when I changed the battery the screanvand all the center council and the shifter turned off but the car was still on any tips

[@manliocicchelli8763]

if i install a used and working module then it needs to be reprogrammed?

[@DegenerateValor]

Hey does the gm5 mod. Also not make the windshield wipers and rear hatch not work (wagon)?

[@cnm563]

Hello! I have a 2003 e46, my locks have never worked. I can unlock driver door with the key and all doors unlock by pulling handles but there’s nothing when I use the center console button or the key fob. Is that a actuator or the GM5 module?

[@memeseller1706]

So I have a 2002 x5 that has that same problem and I replaced the window module And still nothing you think it’s the same deal with it as the e46?

[@PekizFROMHELLMKD]

Hello guys.. My GM5 module burned down..so i got another one from the junkyard and plugged it and it doesnt work.. I have the D-CAN cable and the PA-Soft one and i need some instructions on how to code it to my car :)

[@kevinoscar7077]

Can you please help… I recently fixed my locks cus when I got the car the key doesn’t work.. so after doing that the key locks the door.. Bt whenever I lock the door all the windows go down.. is there anyway I can reset the locks or fix it myself or I have to go to a mechanic?

[@MrCuckoobox]

Thanks for sharing........Is the location and procedure for the removal the same for the e39? Or Is the GM5 Module located in a different location? Hopefully, I will not need to replace it any time soon.. My e39 is a "Garage Queen"........ I do not drive her enough.....I may need to add that to the pick and pull list for spare parts. I did that with my e30. It is difficult to find parts now for them because you do see them at the pick and pulls. I remember a few years back there was at least one a month, then is was every other month, then every third or fourth month. Now it is one a year or maybe longer and the cars are trashed, no parts really worth pulling.

[@rytoniowendolini2793]

Will this also be the window motor direction relay as well?

[@Ahmed.Soubhe]

Can somebody help me My e46 got a engine Swap And My buttons and actual key are not locking/unlocking the car and the hazard light blink 3 times

[@lesafighter]

hey man one question , when changing the gm5 module is it plug and play or it has to be coded to the car , i swaped my broken gm5 for one that is functional but my central locking is not working now ,it was working with the old module ,i changed mine cos driver door window was not working

[@AdrianBelsa]

Hey guys Iam having an issue with my 2001 330ci where the key buttons won't lock or unlock the car they key in the door lock barrel works fine with 2 clicks it unlocks both the drivers and passenger door I don't think it's the actuators and I have tried to program the key from KZbin vids with holding the button while pressing a button 3 times it locks the doors but won't unlock any help is much appreciated thank you

[@THEWORKSSHOP]

Great info! I think my GM5 module is going. Any idea if it controls the gas door lock?

[@RobertWeir]

I think it does .. and there’s a manual pull inside the trunk for the gas door lock .. :/

[@youngnreckless86]

So how would I get into my car if I’m locked out and keys do nothing I can get into the truck but my model of car doesn’t have the push button inside the trunk I’m literally lock out haha gonna throw a brick threw this back window and call it a day unless you have a good idea lol

[@maxwelladams5114]

Any diagnosis help? My doors lock and unlock. Problem being that even when locked, you can open the driver door. All the other doors seem to be fine.

[@Marttyy]

did you fixed it?

[@mirzha001]

The guy you mentioned is a pain in my ass my module in my e39 died completly and he said it wasnt the module my ass

[@standeman32]

I actually work at a repair shop and we have a solder station, so this is perfect! Which capacitors/resistors actually go bad on the board usually? Desoldering and soldering is no issue for me, would really appreciate any insight into that if you’ve got it.

[@elek101]

The two lock relays go bad

[@a808masa1]

I have a 330CI. My pass window does not stop on the down run. Does the GM 5 module have anything with this?

[@ShopLifeTV]

It is definitely possible, might want to start with the window switch first and then the regulator/motor.

[@a808masa1]

Thanks

[@michaelradtke3935]

Great video as always! Just curious if this will solve my problem. My door locks work totally fine with the key, and the button on the center console. My issue is with my doors unlocking by themselves, and the windows go down too. I read a pretty lengthy thread on e46 fanatics where more than a few guys said it was the driver door lock actuator...I pulled one of the fuses that only controls the door locks, so I still have lights, wipers and windows that work. But I would like to get it fixed, I’m pretty sure it’s the actuator...based on my experience and what I’ve read. Just curious about your opinion with it. Thanks in advance 😊

[@7hanasi]

maybe consider the ignition switch too, i heard that can cause a lot of electrical faults

[@Safsbmwlife]

That's be the key barrel in driver door. I had same problem fixed it for 5 quid

[@jamiewillis3358]

How do I get in touch with Scott I need to send my GM5 in to him

[@bdozer3398]

Did you ever get Scott info. I need to fix mine as well

[@fcknhellmate]

You are actually wrong about desoldering. I mean your approach was just wrong not equipment. My idea would be to firstly heat up pins and remove bulk of tin with vacuum suction tool. Then further cleanup with flux and desoldering wire. Lastly heat up whole regions with hot air (maybe even preheat in oven) if neccessary to pull the relays.

[@neilhampson2843]

Learn by your mistakes Don't buy BMWs

[@barrywakefield4942]

These “how to do” videos for the E46 are the best. Your detailed filming and talking through the work are excellent. Keep up the great work👍🏼 Many thanks

[@matmainel1676]

Hi, If I buy new One gm5, I Need to mate my old Key whit new gm5?

[@micheleleghissa4928]

You are solving all of my E46 problems. Really thanks

[@y2ksierra]

I just went through this on my touring. I bought a used unit for $30 and coded it with NCS expert and everything seems to work fine, including the key remote.