key won't turn!

Post your E12 technical questions and comments here. Please, no off-topic posts.

Moderators: Mike W., Pierre

Post Reply
User avatar
socalfiver
Posts: 229
Joined: Wed Jul 21, 2010 12:31 pm
Location: Los Angeles, CA

key won't turn!

Post by socalfiver »

My 528i is my daily driver for the past 5 years, no issues to speak of.

Today, it got stranded at a shopping center. The key won't turn the ignition lock. I've tried pulling on the wheel in both directions, jiggling it... nothing is helping.

Any idea how to get the ignition lock out of the column? I've got the bottom off and removed the lock "retainer" (13mm bolt directly beneath lock cylinder)
"Get it while you can." -Janis Joplin

1980 528i Automatic, "Frau Blucher"
1982 BMW R100RS
1982 633csi 5 speed
User avatar
socalfiver
Posts: 229
Joined: Wed Jul 21, 2010 12:31 pm
Location: Los Angeles, CA

Post by socalfiver »

I got it out, removed tumbler, reinstalled and was able to drive the car home. New tumbler is $35.

Straightforward. No tricks. Use common sense.
"Get it while you can." -Janis Joplin

1980 528i Automatic, "Frau Blucher"
1982 BMW R100RS
1982 633csi 5 speed
Post Reply