When evaluating aftermarket components for premium vehicles such as those in the B-M-W range, the Door Lock Actuator Front Right (RHD) 51217059968 emerges as a critical replacement part for owners seeking to maintain factory-level security and convenience. Designed specifically for right-hand-drive models across multiple B-M-W series – including the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, X1, X3, X5, X6, and Z4 – this actuator addresses a common wear-and-tear issue in modern vehicle door mechanisms. Its compatibility with chassis codes such as E81, E90, F32, E70, and E89 underscores its broad application, particularly for enthusiasts or daily drivers prioritising OEM-equivalent performance.
Key Technical Parameters and Compatibility
The actuator’s part number, 51217059968, ensures precise alignment with B-M-W’s engineering specifications. Constructed from high-grade polymers and corrosion-resistant metals, the unit replicates the original equipment’s tolerance for temperature fluctuations (-30°C to 85°C) and humidity exposure. Its RHD-specific design accounts for the unique wiring harness routing and door card clearance found in right-hand-drive vehicles, a detail often overlooked by generic replacements. Compatibility spans petrol and diesel variants, with users confirming fitment across E84 X1 models equipped with iDrive security systems and simpler E85 Z4 roadsters alike.
Installation and User Experience
Feedback from B-M-W owners highlights the actuator’s plug-and-play installation process, with particular praise for the colour-coded connectors that prevent wiring errors. One Z4 E89 owner noted, “The actuator slotted into the existing door module without needing to recalibrate the central locking system – it recognised the new component immediately.” However, some DIY installers recommend removing the door panel with trim tools to avoid damaging the acoustic membrane, a step that requires patience but no specialist tools. The inclusion of pre-threaded mounting points aligns perfectly with factory bolt positions, eliminating the need for modifications even in older E60 5 Series saloons.
Performance and Durability Considerations
In real-world testing across diverse climates, from the damp UK winters to Mediterranean summers, the actuator’s sealed motor housing has proven resistant to moisture ingress – a common failure point in original units. X5 E70 owners towing caravans reported consistent operation despite prolonged door vibrations, with one user stating, “After 18 months of heavy use, the lock engages with the same positive ‘clunk’ as when first installed.” The mechanism’s 12V DC motor operates within a 3-5 amp range, drawing minimal power from the vehicle’s electrical system while providing swift 0.8-second lock/unlock cycles.
Comparative Advantages Over Generic Alternatives
Where third-party actuators often compromise on gear tooth precision or spring tension, the 51217059968 replicates the OEM helical gear design that reduces wear on the central locking cam. Users of F32 4 Series Gran Coupés particularly appreciate this nuance, as their frameless doors demand exact alignment to prevent wind noise. The actuator’s nylon-reinforced drive cable also resists stretching, a detail highlighted by an E83 X3 owner: “Previous pattern parts failed within a year, but this one’s cable hasn’t slackened even after 25,000 miles on rutted country lanes.”
Integration with Vehicle Security Systems
Compatibility with B-M-W’s anti-theft protocols remains a standout feature. When installed in E90 3 Series models with Comfort Access, the actuator maintains seamless communication with the proximity sensors. One F23 2 Series owner observed, “The automatic relock function works flawlessly – if I walk away without manually securing the car, it engages the deadlocks exactly as the factory unit did.” This level of integration ensures compliance with Thatcham Security ratings, crucial for insurance validation in the UK market.
Long-Term Reliability and Serviceability
The actuator’s design permits individual component replacement rather than full-unit disposal, aligning with sustainable maintenance practices. Service technicians highlight the replaceable carbon brushes in the motor – a feature absent in many aftermarket units – which extend the actuator’s lifespan beyond typical 5-7 year service intervals. E82 1 Series owners in urban environments report consistent performance despite frequent use, with one noting, “In central London, I’m locking/unlocking the car 20+ times daily – no hesitation or sluggish response after eight months.”
Conclusion
For B-M-W owners requiring a right-hand-drive-specific solution that mirrors factory performance, the 51217059968 door lock actuator presents a technically robust option. Its adherence to OEM specifications, combined with improved material quality in stress-prone areas, makes it particularly suitable for high-mileage vehicles or those subject to harsh weather conditions. While installation demands basic mechanical competency, the absence of coding requirements or specialist tooling positions this actuator as a viable project for engaged owners. From the classic E85 Z4 to the latest G-series models with legacy door mechanisms, this component delivers security and convenience without compromising B-M-W’s engineering ethos.
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