BillT,

I have learned this lesson after repairing many BMWs and Volvos door locks...

Once the repair is done and the panel is back on, do NOT close the door.
Instead, use a screwdriver and flip the lever inside the latch (on the door) to simulate door closure.
Now simulate trying to open the door (the door is opened anyway) using either internal vs external handle, the lever inside the latch should drop downward.
This trick allows you to open the panel again should your repair does not work.

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1998 E39 528i 5sp MT
2006 E53 X5 3.0 6sp MT