I got it open!!! Thanks all. Not sure if the warmer temps may have helped. I reached up in and felt where the outer door handle actuated the latch release and ...helped it along and BAMM - she's open. I shot some graphite powder in the actual striker/latch where the door clamps shut hoping that may help.

Now onto the window regulator. Thanks again everyone for your inputs/help.

Jay

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‘03 X5 3.0
‘01 740iL
‘01 325Ci

‘00 750iL sold
‘95 740i sold
‘99 328i convert
‘95 325i convert
‘95 325iS