Got it open with the cousin. Turns out the little plastic holder thing on the side of the engine bay wouldn't stay shut, so the first wire would slip out of place, failing to engage. We jury-rigged it with a couple of hose clamps for now.

Is there somewhere I can just order that part, or will I be forced to order the whole cable and redo the locks?

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Motivation can change what you do, but inspiration can change who you are.
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2003 BMW X5 3.0i, Black Sapphire, 287,423 km and kicking!
www.sam-medina.com
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