Here is one of the service bulletins sent out by BMW. They are are aware of the problem but, still, no recall to fix this design fault.

This Service Information bulletin replaces S.I. 51 51 02 dated March 2002.

SUBJECT
Outer Door Handles Freeze

MODEL
X5 produced prior to 7/02

SITUATION
Some owners of X5s built prior to 7/02 may complain of one or more outer door releases failing to operate in freezing weather. This usually occurs after a period of heavy rain which is followed by a sudden, hard freeze.

CAUSE
The Bowden cables connecting the outer door handles to the latch assemblies may get water inside the outer sheath of the cable. If the temperature drops below freezing before the water dries out, the water may freeze, preventing the movement of the inner cable.

CORRECTION
As of 7/02 production, the sealing of the outer cable from water penetration was improved by modifying the rubber nipple on the handle end of the cable.

[S5104U07.JPG]
The early nipple (1) has a flat top.
The improved nipple (2) is extended and has more of a barrel shape.

In case of a customer complaint, replace the outer door handles with the improved parts.