I've had my 1999 750iL sitting for a week or two awaiting parts for a repair (water pump, fan and fan clutch), which I'm about to receive. When I went to open the car today, however, it refused to unlock. I tried the remote and the key, but the lock wouldn't pen. The only thing that will open is the trunk. I think the alarm may have gone off, but there are no signs of anyone trying to get into the car (plus, the over was on). I'm stumped. Are the locks completely electric on this car, so that a dead battery would prevent entry? If that's the case, do I jump the car directly from the battery in the trunk? Is there anything special about jumping there?

This car has me really frustrated, and I appreciate anyone's help.

Key should work the driver's door even if the battery is dead, but a dead battery on an E38 causes all kinds of weird things to happen. (Like the alarm going off for no reason...)

You should be able to jump the car in the trunk if you can't get inside to open the hood.

I fiddled with it some more and it opened. The weird thing is that now the remote works, and the car started fine. Anyway, thanks for your help.

Watch for other weird electrical events... you may be due for a new battery.

I'd put new ones in the remote key FOB too, just to be sure.

Good luck! :)