I'm having an issue "feeling" where the bobby pin is supposed to go to be twisted. Also, am i supposed to jam the pin in where I believe it's supposed to go based off of the position of your video?
Fucking shit, my car kept running, all i could do was to pull out the key..... now i have to stall it with clutch and disconnect the battery, have to park where i got a downhill.....
@Bmwdonny I removed the fuel pump fuse & let the engine starve for fuel til it ran out of gas. Your ignition sounds jammed. I removed the panel below the steering wheel & then looked for and removed the rust orange plastic cap w/ wiring on the end of the ignition. Watched this video "Locked \ jammed BMW ignition lock" to unjam ignition. My ignition spun after that. Then followed the second half of this video's instructions to make it stop spinning.
@corriemichele hmmm i dont want to do all that, i also had my key spin without anything happening, but that was only when the steeringwheel was locked, thank god for my companycar :)
I have a 95 325i convertible.. I was at the store and i turn the key two click but it felt a lil weird.. i go to turn the car on and it just kept spinning.. will the screw trick work for me? and any other info bout it will really help.. thanks
@millertimebmw I didn't understand why the screw is needed in the bottom of the tumbler. I have to unjam the lock from the back first, but if my key is spinning after I unjam it, do I need a new tumbler or can I just screw it in place so it doesn't spin? Is the screw used to be able to keep using a broken tumbler or do I need a new tumbler AND need to screw it in place? Thanks!!!!
I couldnt get the lock out, I have a 96 bmw 318ti The steering wheel was locked, couldn't start the car, so I did exactly like the video and drilled a hole in the bottom ignition housing. On the inside of the housing was a spring standing up, i took a screw driver and some needle nose plyers and pulled it out, it instantly release tension, my steering wheel unlocked, and my ignition fully turned and cranked normally. I cant lock my steering anymore, but who cares, beats spending one grand.
useful video thanks for posting ....my e36 is just starting to have this issue so thought I would look this up prior to having "issues" lol ......very clear and will be useful insight !!
@hotmilk4001 the screw prevents the entire barrel from spinning ....mine has the same "issues" and from what I see on the net we are far from alone!! .....so to answer you are correct in your assumption that the key is in the "off" position ...as for a "new tumbler and key" have heard it would need to be "paired" to your ecu ......personally I will just use the screw ! ..hope that helps :) ....best to all
Hey millertimebmw. So, I got my tumbler off and will be going to the dealership tomorrow to order the new one, but here's my worry... My steering wheel is now only locked from the left side, meaning I can spin the wheel just a bit, and the right side lock didn't engage. Do you think getting a new ignition tumbler fitted for my car unlock the steering wheel nicely like it should, or is there also a steering wheel lock mechanism problem too?
Hey millertimebmw, so tonight my 328is ignition is locked in the acc position so my lights and dash lights are all staying on and i can slide the key in and out of the ignition. if i work the key just right i can get it to move freely and spin. could the tumbler be bad like you explained in the video? or am i looking at bigger problems? any help is really appreciated!
@millertimebmw I realized my problem wasn't just the tumbler when I couldn't turn the key to any other position (except I could get it to spin 360 degrees). I had to remove the ignition switch to unjam the rod before I was able to remove the tumbler. Reassembled original tumbler and my key ignition was able to cycle thru the positions. Unfortunately, engine won't turn now. Perhaps the key antennae? I had originally pried off the outer ring exposing wound wires. Any other things to look for?
@ticani2 Question, are you able to change the position of your key? I couldn't change the key position and realized I had to remove the ignition to switch to unjam it (there another video for doing that). Might be your problem.
@marcoenlasvegas You will need to remove the electrical connector on the back and rotate the shaft. If you have Skype or would like to send questions I can walk you through it.
Ok this video and the other video by ||cracker|| have been a lot of help. Here's the issue Im running into. The metal tab that can be seen inside the small hole where the bobbypin rotates with the key. You can never get to the rightmost edge of the tab to insert the pin. Even when I put the bobbypin into the ignition and it goes in about 2/3 its length, the latch on the counterside of the igntion (the one we are tryign to disengage) still will not let the ignition be released.
I posted a question a couple days ago and actually ended up gettin my tumbler out...IMPORTANT NOTE with this video: This is for e36 vehicles produced after 10/95. My car is a '94 so that's why I was having trouble...I've posted a video response regarding the earlier production models...please see this and post comments if you have any questions.
Found this video awesome,I'm glad someone took the time to put it up, but I have one question: millertimebmw, I've been trying to remove the tumbler and am having some trouble with getting the bobby pin to hook up with the pin that releases the latch holding the tumbler in place...Could you better explain how to insert the pin? I've messed with the key position and the insertion of the bobby pin but still can't get it. The video cuts out when you insert the pin so I couldn't fully follow along
I BOUGHT A TUMBLER FROM DEALER for my 1998 bmw 528I HERE IN ATLANTA. I SWITCHED IT OUT AND NOW THE KEY WANT TURN AT ALL. WHAT SHOULD I DO NOW. CAR IT STILL IN START MODE. I HAVE TO TAKE FUEL PUMP FUSE OUT TO STOP IT FROM RUNNING? ANY SUGGESTIONS?
You will need to take off the electrical connector on the back of the ignition and turn the post to lock it back into place. Or, set your new tumbler to the second position and then install it into the steering column!
hey, i need help here!!, i already tried to remove the lock and no success, this is the thing, the lock spins 360 w/o hitting any 1 or 2 position, right now the switch is always unlocked due to the fact that when the key is inside the lock seems like it does not hit anything on the 360 turn, right now im turning the car on with a screwdriver, does this method works the same when this is happening??, i have and 95 740il and its pretty much the same from this video, let me know.. thnks!
Briliant man. You have saved me a ton of time and money repairing my lock cylinder. Did the set screw method. Drilled, tapped 8-32 size set screw and it was done. Easy.
Helpful DIY! thanks! i got a e39 i live in europe do european locks differ from those in america? if not is it safe to just drill a hole without taking out the lock mechanism itself to make the job faster? my lock is spinning freely in counter clockwise direction about a year and now it started spinning past Acc so i sometimes need to try several times... thanks for the Answer!
Zach this is a great video, but I've just spent a couple of weeks off the road as I really can't get this to work. I've tried the famous bobby pin (which actually seems to push in past the right point), Allen keys and a piece of steel wire. I've tried every combination of twisting and pushing. All I've got is a sore thumb. It's annoying; even the manual makes it look like a trivial job.
I'm going to try the screw fix without removing the barrel idea now!
Hi- great video. I have a 7401, 1994. I can turn the key per normal but the shaft that unlocks the steering wheel and turns the ignition switch. Is that a lock cylinder issue or the lock cylinder housing? If it's the housing, how the heck do you get it off? Thanks
I can't for the life of me get the new tumbler back in. I put back in the old tumbler no problem. If the key is in the second position, the locking device gets flat so that it will go in but will not stay locked. I've just about worn my thumb out trying to get this to work! Please help!
Man...to take a\out the tumbler is a pain in the ass...:( My key is spinning and can't get it out, my thumb is hurting as well...To repaid the spinning key, to I need to remove the tumbler, or it's enough to drill? How deep the drill should be? Just like the screw you showed? My key was spinning while my engine was running....CAN'T GET THAT TUMBLER OUT......
didi you or anyone know you can sometimes fix this by scrappin of the red wax on left side undo ing both screws taking of switch red circular one and moving turning the pivot or rod that sticks out it seamed to reset it and then my key works fine now must of just moved or slipped to cause spinning lock, id try this first before shelling out on a new barrel.
im a locksmith in jamaica and i fixed this exact problem today. whats happening is the mechanical anti-theft is thinking your using a wrong key cause your key is worn. if you go to reputable locksmith and get a first key cut and transfer the chip to the newly cut key the ignition will work just fine.
I spent close to two hours trying to get that lock to pop out - no luck. I tried a bobbie pin and a stronger paper clip. It looks easy in the video, but its harder than it looks.
My 95 325 is stuck in a similar problem. Its now running with the key out. The key used to rotate freely like in this video before it got into this state.
Is there anything i can do to fix with out waiting for a week to get the part?
This is not manual - so how do we kill the engine when key is not turning?
My lock is spinning but it is stuck in the "ON" position (the car is has been running at idle for 2 hours as I write this, and will continue to run until I figure out a fix or it runs out of gas). You mention that it has to be in the "off" position to remove the barrel / cylinder, but I can't turn it off! How do I get it back to that position so I can follow the rest of the steps on your video? How do I turn the car off? Help!
I have a simular problem in that I can only turn the key one notch and then it won't turn anymore. I've got a new tumbler from BMW, but any suggestions on how to remove the old lock? I can't turn it enough to get the wire in...help! I have a 1998 3 series 316
I have a simular problem in that I can only turn the key one notch and then it won't turn anymore. I've got a new tumbler from BMW, but any suggestions on how to remove the old lock? I can't turn it enough to get the wire in...help!
Thanks a lot for this video! You saved me at least $800 according to a verbal quote I got from my mechanic over the phone.
I went to my BMW dealership, ordered a new Ignition Lock aka Tumbler, it took 2 weeks to arrive, since they come from Germany. Very easy to replace the Lock after watching this video a few times. I did have to remove the Ignition Switch and turn it clockwise to set it in there properly. After that, the lock popped out easily with the bobby pin.
Ive tried everything you said and no go...I can find a sweet spot a few times, I twist and nothing. I have a 9/95 yr bmw m3. Its near impossible to find this sweet spot...its killing my stupid thumb trying to press the hair pin in. Ive done everything from redoing my full top end, changing all my illumination to cool blue, suspension, you name it...and this is REALLY pissing me off!!!! This is not working one bit and I have about 8 hours invested in trying to get this stupid lock out
Hi' i cant get the special tool in.. my lock is in pos1 and it's impossible to get it in pos.2. i believe that's the reason why i can't get the tool in.. can somebody please help me ???? it's about a e36 318 tds from 97
I have a question i have a 1992 318is I can't always start the car, when I play with the key then it starts not always but it seems like the cylinder has a little play.. If i want to change the cylinder can I do it without having to take everything apart or can i get away with only using the bobby pin to release the cylinder? Does the 1992 have a coded key? Do i have to order a cylinder with a new key or can I use the old keys on the new cylinder....
so do i need to buy a new tumbler from bmw? or do a just put the screw in the bottom of the old tumbler to prevent the tumbler from spinning? which did you do in your video?
This is excellent! All your videos are worth taking to heart. I am female BMW 318i owner-repairer. Mechanic charged me $400 to unlock my steering wheel and then said "I hope you dont need a new tumbler!" I have the spinning lock now and bobby pins. Thanks and please keep up the good news. You helped me with my convertible top too.
hello I assume you had already fixed this before the viseo? I have a spinning lock which still works as long as the key is fully inserted and the lock is in the correct position by turning it until it clicks (eg the notch in the right place), can I simply put the outside screw in to lock the tumbler, rather than having the replace the barrel?
cool video man hope u can give me some feed back first i started the car and my steering wheel did not unlock then i turned off car then i could not the ignition anymore do u know if that is the tumbler that is broken
LOL Man this tumbler IS Dumb I got to Do one in MY 97 M3 happen this week After the Flange Let Go On the Header I was like Fuck as soon as i got home i go to Kill the Car the Key comes OUT ! Now I'm Rely Pissed OFF got to Fix two things Now well I welded the Flange Back Oh the Header and now got to Fix the KEy tumbler yeah what a week for me I just temp fixed the Header for Now till it gets Nicer out ill put some Brand New ones.but yeah THis IS One of the " Best Video's " I've Seen!!!
I did this repair without removing the barrel. just lined the barrel up to where it would be when putting the key in, reset the back of the ignition and gently drilled the hole and inserted the screw. worked a treat. got very bored of messing with paperclips!!!!!!
I just want you to know your video is awesome. After watching your video my friend and my myself (two girls) were able to replace the ignition cylinder on a 1996 BMW Z3 in under an hour. We were very proud of ourselves. It works like a charm now. We had no problems. Two questions. I need to replace the temperature gauge and the front driver seat. Do you have any videos on that?
Hi i did what u did and works i placed the new tumbler and everything back together and the car turns on but one problem when i remove the key the tumbler locks and does not allow the key to come back in place, so i have to take everything apart remove the ignition switch and pull with the pliers from the other side of the housing and the key will get in. Any idea what is the problem? do i need to replace the housing? if i have to replace it any directions or video to do it?
mannn i dont knoe who u are (Zach) but you are a homiee...this video is amazing keep up the good work!! Question in regards to the drill screw..is that to hold the tumbler (spinning) in postion to get hair pin in?
basically my tumbler is spinning..ordered new tumbler from bmw already its on the way...my problem is i can get broken tumbler out because its spinning! What do i do?
just a quick update-3 months on from following your advice with the screw and still working like the day it was made!! Thanks again for the time,money and hassle you saved me. Use the screw folks-it realy realy realy works!!!!
2. What should I do to reset the ignition, have to spin the the part of the shaft that goes to the red connector? and if should i spin it clockwise or counter?
3. Where to drill this hole? And if I will not do this will it work? or it has to be done before i can try to start the car?
My tumbler is not spining around just from position 0 where i can pull out the key to position start.
Hi I have a quite strange problem with my ignition tumbler, that is it swiches to position 1 but still the steering wheel is locked if i push the key to position 2 and further no reaction the shaft that goes to the red plastic connector is moving to position 2 when the key is in the start position and the only reaction is that it swiches on the display.
My first question is how to unlock the steering wheel so i can do anything further??.
OK it sounds like your shaft is not set to the turn of the key.
Try to take off the red electrical connector on the back side and rotate the shaft clockwise. This will reset the key and shaft to the same "off" position. let me know if this solves your problem. then we can discuss the screw location.
Ok that is done and should probably work, but I didn't checked this out because I pulled out my steering wheel with the airbag and disconnected my battery to avoid airbag problems. Still don't know how to unlock the steering wheel, Is there any way to bypass it? or to disarm it?. If there is now other way tell me how to destroy it, Really I'm desperate.
Do you have access to a camera? You could send photo of exactly what your steering column looks like. If not can you tell me if there is a shaft sticking out on the left hand side of the steering column?
ive been trying to do this for a week. i cant get the the tumbler out to save my life. i cant find the correct position where the 'spring action' is. before i can pull it out. how do i find it?
-btw, do you happen to know if e36 coupe hood hinges will fit an e36 sedan? lol
Great video, however, my key will not turn at all inside the ignition barrel, it us stuck in the ignition position. I have bought a new barrel but can't get the old one out because the hole will not line up on 90 degrees! Please help, what an I do?
On the back side of the barrel you will see a red connector with wires attached to it. Remove the two "grub" screws on the bottom, holding it to the housing.
You will then see a shaft. Turn the shaft clockwise and the ignition will lock. Then try to remove the barrel from the housing.
thank you for the vid. it was very informative. sadly i didnt come across it sooner. i had already removed the whole housing from the steering column in an attempt to see how to remove the barrel since initial attempts at using a similar method to yours failed. i have ended up paying for a whole new housing and barrel since a crack developed on the housing. thanks again!
Hey, miller time. Ok, so I got my new tumbler from BMW the other day. And this thing wont fricken fit. I have tried every angle. Watched the DIY video. Lined everything up and it still wont go in. Im preety much stuck and no m3
Thank you so much Zak, you have saved me so much work. What i thought would take hours took 15mins following your advise. May want to show taking the orange bit off to reset the barrel or tumbler as you say over their. But again many many thanks-and yes people the screw does fix your barrel. Also worth saying if you use the screw to fix it it dosent have to be removed so long as youve reset ignition. Zak, i could kiss you!!! haha
once the frustration of removing the tumbler is completed, is a new tumbler required or can the old one be re-used by drilling a screw where he showed???
i have a 97 328i the key just spins. car itself in the ON position, i connect the battery and pop the clutch to start it - ican drive it. you can have the key in or out and turn the key to what ever positoni you want to and the car will keep running and is drivable. PROBLEM is i can't shut it off. Ican't get the cylinder out. I turn the key to proper position but no luck Do i drill and put that little screw in or keep trying to get it out? thanks in advance for any help.
man, how do u get the new ignition cylinder back in? i was able to get the old one off and slide it back in numerous times(months ago) but now i can't get the new one or the old one back in. when i took the old one out, the car was making that doors open pinging noise, when i put the new one in, it didn't go in all the way, but when i turned the key it stopped the pinging noise. what's going on?
What this means is that the internals of the lock assembly (the part the cylinder goes onto isn't full in the locker position.
You will need to take off the red connector off the back of the assembly (the one with all of the wires attached to it) and reset the shaft coming out of the steering wheel.
Its driving me crazy to hear you say "tumbler" over and over again. Its not a tumbler, its the ignition cylinder or simply ignition switch. A tumbler is the wafer looking parts on the inside of the cylinder itself. its what lines up to allow the cylinder to turn.
M 98 323i will start, but my steering wheel stays locked. I have wiggled my steering wheel, but no use. Does the ignition tumbler have anything to do with the steering wheel lock? I don't want to buy a new tumbler and not have my steering wheel lock not fixed. Thank you!
p.s. my key does spin occasionally, but I want to know if the steering wheel lock and ignition tumbler are related.
This is an interesting one, the car starts because the key, turns the internals of the lock which spins a shaft that turns the ignition switch on to start the car. So your steering wheel should unlock before the car starts.
Technically, the steering wheel should be unlocked with the first click of the ignition.
I am having the same problem as LinfrodN, I only can get to one click just unlocking the steering wheel. In another commet later on someone said theres a tab to reset the tumbler so I could get to the second click has anyone verified this works?
Does the steering wheel have to be unlocked for this to work? Its a 1992 318i and the key only makes one click them spins freely to the start position not all the way around. Tried this for a couple hours no luck. Any advice?
Ok, so you have ESWII which is a transponder chip in the key. If your tumbler isn't moving at all (is it stuck or does it spin?). You can use another tumbler but you will need two keys to unlock the doors etc. and 1 to start the car.
mate, you are spot on, however, see if you can work this out, my e36 coupe on 95 year, has the same key as you, but it dont turn in my tumbler at all, it is only acting as the imobliser unit, now if i change my tumbler out of a 92 saloon car, and stranp my key around the arieal, will i get away with it and start my car, with the new keys????
I had to remove the 2 grub screws at the back of the ignition barrel assy, pull the red plastic part off, "reset" the ignition by twisting the protruding part with pliers, then reassemble.
Then it worked. No drilling, no fiddling with pins, no new parts.
Hi my 95 BM has a spinning problem and is set at the ingnition on position its really hard to get the antenna ring off will I just go ahead and drill and tap it with the screw are does it have to be in another position????? Thanks
my lock is not spinning because is stuck in position no 2...how i get out the contact?sorry for my english but i'm from romanian and i don't speeck verry well english...
I have a 2004 325I and my Valet key is broken in side the tumbler. I can start the car by inserting in the end of the key and turning the whole cylinder. HELP How can I get this broken key out. Thanx
I currently have this problem - went into the store, came out, put the key in and after the first click, the key just spun loose. Cant even get the steering wheel to unlock! Mine is a 1992 - 325I - can I replace the tumbler and key with a used one from a junk yard - if I am able to find one around here??? This is my only form of transportation - and as of right now, its stuck in the parking lot!!!
except for having to carry around 2 keys (1 for the door and 1 for the ignition), it is a viable and inexpensive option. I'd suggest you try this fix if you have the time to try it out.
Good Vid but.. you flew through the most important step of where exactly you're drilling the hole for the screw etc! Would have been nice to see it with the tumbler out still..
great video which helped me solve this quickly... i'd like to add that if your lock is not spinning freely and has become stuck in any position, it needs to be reset by removing the ignition switch at the back of the tumbler itself and using plyers to turn the shaft until it pops back in...
I currently have this problem - went into the store, came out, put the key in and after the first click, the key just spun loose. Cant even get the steering wheel to unlock! Mine is a 1992 - 325I - can I replace the tumbler and key with a used one from a junk yard - if I am able to find one around here??? This is my only form of transportation - and as of right now, its stuck in the parking lot!!!
Great post. I am having this problem and I heard that the problem might be the steering lock instead of the tab. Are you sure it's the tab. Also, you are not showing why you are putting the screw in. Do we need to put the screw in with the new ignition tumbler? I assume you are using the screw with the old ignition tumbler with the little tab broken off. Does that mean that if we remove the damaged tumbler that has the little tab broken off, then re-position it and screw it in, it will work?
I currently have this problem - went into the store, came out, put the key in and after the first click, the key just spun loose. Cant even get the steering wheel to unlock! Mine is a 1992 - 325I - can I replace the tumbler and key with a used one from a junk yard - if I am able to find one around here??? This is my only form of transportation - and as of right now, its stuck in the parking lot!!!
Also.. What is the significance of the screw? Is it something you have to do when replacing the lock?
tbrusky61 1 week ago
I'm having an issue "feeling" where the bobby pin is supposed to go to be twisted. Also, am i supposed to jam the pin in where I believe it's supposed to go based off of the position of your video?
tbrusky61 1 week ago
Fucking shit, my car kept running, all i could do was to pull out the key..... now i have to stall it with clutch and disconnect the battery, have to park where i got a downhill.....
Bmwdonny 1 week ago
@Bmwdonny I removed the fuel pump fuse & let the engine starve for fuel til it ran out of gas. Your ignition sounds jammed. I removed the panel below the steering wheel & then looked for and removed the rust orange plastic cap w/ wiring on the end of the ignition. Watched this video "Locked \ jammed BMW ignition lock" to unjam ignition. My ignition spun after that. Then followed the second half of this video's instructions to make it stop spinning.
Thats what worked for me.
corriemichele 1 week ago
@corriemichele hmmm i dont want to do all that, i also had my key spin without anything happening, but that was only when the steeringwheel was locked, thank god for my companycar :)
Bmwdonny 1 week ago
can someone please help me
Souwannaknow 1 week ago
I have a 95 325i convertible.. I was at the store and i turn the key two click but it felt a lil weird.. i go to turn the car on and it just kept spinning.. will the screw trick work for me? and any other info bout it will really help.. thanks
Souwannaknow 2 weeks ago
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@millertimebmw I didn't understand why the screw is needed in the bottom of the tumbler. I have to unjam the lock from the back first, but if my key is spinning after I unjam it, do I need a new tumbler or can I just screw it in place so it doesn't spin? Is the screw used to be able to keep using a broken tumbler or do I need a new tumbler AND need to screw it in place? Thanks!!!!
corriemichele 2 weeks ago
Will the screw method work in an 98 e39? I think they have the same ignition setup but I'm not sure,
cbarnes0891 3 weeks ago
@cbarnes0891 I think it should be the same!
millertimebmw 3 weeks ago
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I couldnt get the lock out, I have a 96 bmw 318ti The steering wheel was locked, couldn't start the car, so I did exactly like the video and drilled a hole in the bottom ignition housing. On the inside of the housing was a spring standing up, i took a screw driver and some needle nose plyers and pulled it out, it instantly release tension, my steering wheel unlocked, and my ignition fully turned and cranked normally. I cant lock my steering anymore, but who cares, beats spending one grand.
truck16a 1 month ago
useful video thanks for posting ....my e36 is just starting to have this issue so thought I would look this up prior to having "issues" lol ......very clear and will be useful insight !!
dooksization 1 month ago
Hey, so my lock is starting to spin, but not all the time.
will just adding the screw in the bottom fix this? What is the screw doing that is letting the ignition catch when it was not before?
also, should the key be in the off position when i put the screw in? any special hints to this?
if all else fails, can i just use a ignition tumbler from a different car, stick it in and use the new key? (just transfer the EWSII to the new key)
thanks for the help man!
hotmilk4001 1 month ago
@hotmilk4001 the screw prevents the entire barrel from spinning ....mine has the same "issues" and from what I see on the net we are far from alone!! .....so to answer you are correct in your assumption that the key is in the "off" position ...as for a "new tumbler and key" have heard it would need to be "paired" to your ecu ......personally I will just use the screw ! ..hope that helps :) ....best to all
dooksization 1 month ago
Hey millertimebmw. So, I got my tumbler off and will be going to the dealership tomorrow to order the new one, but here's my worry... My steering wheel is now only locked from the left side, meaning I can spin the wheel just a bit, and the right side lock didn't engage. Do you think getting a new ignition tumbler fitted for my car unlock the steering wheel nicely like it should, or is there also a steering wheel lock mechanism problem too?
MiltonCarlJacksonII 2 months ago
Hey millertimebmw, so tonight my 328is ignition is locked in the acc position so my lights and dash lights are all staying on and i can slide the key in and out of the ignition. if i work the key just right i can get it to move freely and spin. could the tumbler be bad like you explained in the video? or am i looking at bigger problems? any help is really appreciated!
MrMightyymikee 2 months ago
@millertimebmw I realized my problem wasn't just the tumbler when I couldn't turn the key to any other position (except I could get it to spin 360 degrees). I had to remove the ignition switch to unjam the rod before I was able to remove the tumbler. Reassembled original tumbler and my key ignition was able to cycle thru the positions. Unfortunately, engine won't turn now. Perhaps the key antennae? I had originally pried off the outer ring exposing wound wires. Any other things to look for?
blueeyedlion13 2 months ago
I am an ase master tech with 27 years experience working on cars.I just spent 1 1/2 hours
twisting a bobbypin in my cylinder and It wasn't even CLOSE to coming out. I have changed
many cylinders in american cars but like I said I'm not anywhere close to driving my car.Good luck people!
ticani2 2 months ago
@ticani2 Question, are you able to change the position of your key? I couldn't change the key position and realized I had to remove the ignition to switch to unjam it (there another video for doing that). Might be your problem.
blueeyedlion13 2 months ago
hi!!! what i need to do if my ignition is in on position,and key is spinning...............can u help me?
thanks
marcoenlasvegas 3 months ago
@marcoenlasvegas You will need to remove the electrical connector on the back and rotate the shaft. If you have Skype or would like to send questions I can walk you through it.
good luck!
millertimebmw 3 months ago
@millertimebmw i have the same problem, so if my ignition is stuck in the on position, and the key came out. is this the same process?
mrk98 2 months ago
Ok this video and the other video by ||cracker|| have been a lot of help. Here's the issue Im running into. The metal tab that can be seen inside the small hole where the bobbypin rotates with the key. You can never get to the rightmost edge of the tab to insert the pin. Even when I put the bobbypin into the ignition and it goes in about 2/3 its length, the latch on the counterside of the igntion (the one we are tryign to disengage) still will not let the ignition be released.
gpagnotti 3 months ago
@gpagnotti Try pushing the ignition "in to the column" then pin it and pull out kind of quick. It should "pop" out!
Good luck!
millertimebmw 3 months ago
I posted a question a couple days ago and actually ended up gettin my tumbler out...IMPORTANT NOTE with this video: This is for e36 vehicles produced after 10/95. My car is a '94 so that's why I was having trouble...I've posted a video response regarding the earlier production models...please see this and post comments if you have any questions.
IIcrackerII 3 months ago
Found this video awesome,I'm glad someone took the time to put it up, but I have one question: millertimebmw, I've been trying to remove the tumbler and am having some trouble with getting the bobby pin to hook up with the pin that releases the latch holding the tumbler in place...Could you better explain how to insert the pin? I've messed with the key position and the insertion of the bobby pin but still can't get it. The video cuts out when you insert the pin so I couldn't fully follow along
IIcrackerII 3 months ago
Is it the same process if your key is locked in place?
Yotaman609 4 months ago
@Yotaman609
Yes, if you "dig" into the steering lock, you will see how to get the key out! Good Luck!!
millertimebmw 4 months ago
By the way your video on changing the cylinder was awsome man ...
val0555 7 months ago 2
i think my 95 e36 chip in the key stop working :( DO I NEED A NEW key ?
kingnugget1 7 months ago
@kingnugget1
1995's dont have chips :D
millertimebmw 7 months ago
@millertimebmw mine does, i had to go to the dealer to get a new key ! they chipped the 1995 bmw's in canada from the factory
kingnugget1 7 months ago
I BOUGHT A TUMBLER FROM DEALER for my 1998 bmw 528I HERE IN ATLANTA. I SWITCHED IT OUT AND NOW THE KEY WANT TURN AT ALL. WHAT SHOULD I DO NOW. CAR IT STILL IN START MODE. I HAVE TO TAKE FUEL PUMP FUSE OUT TO STOP IT FROM RUNNING? ANY SUGGESTIONS?
REVENUEDRIVER1 8 months ago
@REVENUEDRIVER1
You will need to take off the electrical connector on the back of the ignition and turn the post to lock it back into place. Or, set your new tumbler to the second position and then install it into the steering column!
Good Luck
millertimebmw 8 months ago
@REVENUEDRIVER1
you can remove the back side of the ignition and click "off" the ignition. the key you have may be worn down too much for the new tumbler.
Good luck!
millertimebmw 7 months ago
very good video ! i hope u can post more about e30/e36 DIY repairs. Thanks
AyashiFX55 8 months ago
Nice video, Thanks!
selllse 9 months ago
hey, i need help here!!, i already tried to remove the lock and no success, this is the thing, the lock spins 360 w/o hitting any 1 or 2 position, right now the switch is always unlocked due to the fact that when the key is inside the lock seems like it does not hit anything on the 360 turn, right now im turning the car on with a screwdriver, does this method works the same when this is happening??, i have and 95 740il and its pretty much the same from this video, let me know.. thnks!
nanielito1 9 months ago
Briliant man. You have saved me a ton of time and money repairing my lock cylinder. Did the set screw method. Drilled, tapped 8-32 size set screw and it was done. Easy.
kiheicowboy 10 months ago
Helpful DIY! thanks! i got a e39 i live in europe do european locks differ from those in america? if not is it safe to just drill a hole without taking out the lock mechanism itself to make the job faster? my lock is spinning freely in counter clockwise direction about a year and now it started spinning past Acc so i sometimes need to try several times... thanks for the Answer!
dimkeyD 11 months ago
This DIY was very helpful. Thanks a lot!
bananarsle 1 year ago
Zach this is a great video, but I've just spent a couple of weeks off the road as I really can't get this to work. I've tried the famous bobby pin (which actually seems to push in past the right point), Allen keys and a piece of steel wire. I've tried every combination of twisting and pushing. All I've got is a sore thumb. It's annoying; even the manual makes it look like a trivial job.
I'm going to try the screw fix without removing the barrel idea now!
dollym2 1 year ago
Hi- great video. I have a 7401, 1994. I can turn the key per normal but the shaft that unlocks the steering wheel and turns the ignition switch. Is that a lock cylinder issue or the lock cylinder housing? If it's the housing, how the heck do you get it off? Thanks
rangelic2010 1 year ago
Hi millertimebmw,
I want to remove my Ignition switch from my BMW 328i 97,
But I don't know how I have try so many times to remove it already and no luck.
Could you give me some pointers?
It's the peace that is as a response video on this video.
Thanks.
hhson1 1 year ago
Nice fix, hopefully this works for my e39.
XSAoRAD 1 year ago
Hi I need a new or use ignition lock for my bmw 328i 97, do you know where I could find one?
hhson1 1 year ago
I can't for the life of me get the new tumbler back in. I put back in the old tumbler no problem. If the key is in the second position, the locking device gets flat so that it will go in but will not stay locked. I've just about worn my thumb out trying to get this to work! Please help!
rhkwon 1 year ago
Man...to take a\out the tumbler is a pain in the ass...:( My key is spinning and can't get it out, my thumb is hurting as well...To repaid the spinning key, to I need to remove the tumbler, or it's enough to drill? How deep the drill should be? Just like the screw you showed? My key was spinning while my engine was running....CAN'T GET THAT TUMBLER OUT......
BBICS22 1 year ago
didi you or anyone know you can sometimes fix this by scrappin of the red wax on left side undo ing both screws taking of switch red circular one and moving turning the pivot or rod that sticks out it seamed to reset it and then my key works fine now must of just moved or slipped to cause spinning lock, id try this first before shelling out on a new barrel.
britmansmaname 1 year ago
Thnx for this video,bro it work perfectly.your a life saver...thnx again.
LmerDgr8 1 year ago
im a locksmith in jamaica and i fixed this exact problem today. whats happening is the mechanical anti-theft is thinking your using a wrong key cause your key is worn. if you go to reputable locksmith and get a first key cut and transfer the chip to the newly cut key the ignition will work just fine.
thanks
bugsy791 1 year ago
do you know where I could find a service manual for E46? thankx
mintrkiller 1 year ago
you fucking rule
DJGEORGENERY1 1 year ago
I spent close to two hours trying to get that lock to pop out - no luck. I tried a bobbie pin and a stronger paper clip. It looks easy in the video, but its harder than it looks.
mgwsc 1 year ago
thank you mate.....it worked !
your a life saver !
stuartmays 1 year ago
thanks mate
hello from scotland !
stuartmays 1 year ago
Yo. I posted some info video for people that need to move a jammed lock in case that they cant remove the tumbler i the stuck position.
LaterMeansBrick 1 year ago
You save me. Thanks man.
LaterMeansBrick 1 year ago
My 95 325 is stuck in a similar problem. Its now running with the key out. The key used to rotate freely like in this video before it got into this state.
Is there anything i can do to fix with out waiting for a week to get the part?
This is not manual - so how do we kill the engine when key is not turning?
Thanks
manjulakalyan 1 year ago
@manjulakalyan
Go to bimmerforums.co.uk and search for "ignition barrel spin". There is help in the thread 1996 E36 318ti - Ignition barrel spin
jobbythehutt 1 year ago
my car is stuck in ignition position 2, i disconnected the battery & reconnected without the key in and it just stays there. will doing this fix it?
slapsquad 1 year ago
@slapsquad
This should!
millertimebmw 1 year ago
@millertimebmw hey millertime. I just tried this with various tipped paperclips, some fat some small
I have taken out the ENTIRE housing.
I put the key in. Nomatter its placement I have two problems.
Firstly the key cannot be removed. No position or force is sufficient.
Secondly I can get the paperclips where they are "spring loaded." No angle of turning it will allow the cylinder to come out of the housing.
My mechanic and I have been at this for hours. What is going on?
1ErrorTryAgain 1 year ago
@millertimebmw hey millertime. I just tried this with various tipped paperclips, some fat some small
I have taken out the ENTIRE housing.
I put the key in. Nomatter its placement I have two problems.
Firstly the key cannot be removed. No position or force is sufficient.
Secondly I can get the paperclips where they are "spring loaded." No angle of turning it will allow the cylinder to come out of the housing.
My mechanic and I have been at this for hours. What is going on?
1ErrorTryAgain 1 year ago
@slapsquad Mine is doing the same thing. I tried working it like the video and I'm having a pretty tough time
xR0WDYx 1 year ago
Finesse. The key is fainesse. A valium and a bit of prayer midway through and you will get it. Thanks kiddo.
gutierrezae 1 year ago
My lock is spinning but it is stuck in the "ON" position (the car is has been running at idle for 2 hours as I write this, and will continue to run until I figure out a fix or it runs out of gas). You mention that it has to be in the "off" position to remove the barrel / cylinder, but I can't turn it off! How do I get it back to that position so I can follow the rest of the steps on your video? How do I turn the car off? Help!
kavablade 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@kavablade
Go to bimmerforums.co.uk and search for "ignition barrel spin". There is help in the thread 1996 E36 318ti - Ignition barrel spin
jobbythehutt 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
I have a simular problem in that I can only turn the key one notch and then it won't turn anymore. I've got a new tumbler from BMW, but any suggestions on how to remove the old lock? I can't turn it enough to get the wire in...help! I have a 1998 3 series 316
DevonOx1 1 year ago
I have a simular problem in that I can only turn the key one notch and then it won't turn anymore. I've got a new tumbler from BMW, but any suggestions on how to remove the old lock? I can't turn it enough to get the wire in...help!
DevonOx1 1 year ago
Thanks a lot for this video! You saved me at least $800 according to a verbal quote I got from my mechanic over the phone.
I went to my BMW dealership, ordered a new Ignition Lock aka Tumbler, it took 2 weeks to arrive, since they come from Germany. Very easy to replace the Lock after watching this video a few times. I did have to remove the Ignition Switch and turn it clockwise to set it in there properly. After that, the lock popped out easily with the bobby pin.
Awesome DIY
thaj0ker 1 year ago
Ive tried everything you said and no go...I can find a sweet spot a few times, I twist and nothing. I have a 9/95 yr bmw m3. Its near impossible to find this sweet spot...its killing my stupid thumb trying to press the hair pin in. Ive done everything from redoing my full top end, changing all my illumination to cool blue, suspension, you name it...and this is REALLY pissing me off!!!! This is not working one bit and I have about 8 hours invested in trying to get this stupid lock out
1mikebowman 1 year ago
@1mikebowman
Here is a hint, can you find a piece of welding wire or something of similar diameter, it will make it easier to release the lock.
Let me know if this helps.
Zach
millertimebmw 1 year ago
@millertimebmw
Hi' i cant get the special tool in.. my lock is in pos1 and it's impossible to get it in pos.2. i believe that's the reason why i can't get the tool in.. can somebody please help me ???? it's about a e36 318 tds from 97
TheQuickest1 1 year ago
I have a question i have a 1992 318is I can't always start the car, when I play with the key then it starts not always but it seems like the cylinder has a little play.. If i want to change the cylinder can I do it without having to take everything apart or can i get away with only using the bobby pin to release the cylinder? Does the 1992 have a coded key? Do i have to order a cylinder with a new key or can I use the old keys on the new cylinder....
val0555 7 months ago
so do i need to buy a new tumbler from bmw? or do a just put the screw in the bottom of the old tumbler to prevent the tumbler from spinning? which did you do in your video?
thanks,
sean
seankrone 1 year ago
You can just add the screw as I did :)
millertimebmw 1 year ago
i need some help i have the same problem, but when i turn the key to the 2nd click i can't get the wire inside the hole, something is blocking it.
kiojose 1 year ago
@kiojose
It may just be difficult to get it in there, you will find a "sweet spot" to slide the pin in. Let me know if you still have difficulties.
Zach
millertimebmw 1 year ago
@kiojose
You just need to find the correct location, you can do it!
Zach
millertimebmw 1 year ago
This is excellent! All your videos are worth taking to heart. I am female BMW 318i owner-repairer. Mechanic charged me $400 to unlock my steering wheel and then said "I hope you dont need a new tumbler!" I have the spinning lock now and bobby pins. Thanks and please keep up the good news. You helped me with my convertible top too.
SunnyX0 1 year ago
@SunnyX0 Glad to hear both genders are taking advantage of this information! ! ! Please ask if there is anything I can help with in the future.
Zach
millertimebmw 1 year ago
hello I assume you had already fixed this before the viseo? I have a spinning lock which still works as long as the key is fully inserted and the lock is in the correct position by turning it until it clicks (eg the notch in the right place), can I simply put the outside screw in to lock the tumbler, rather than having the replace the barrel?
thanks
clartsonly 1 year ago
@clartsonly This was actually shot WHILE I was making the repair. :)
And yes a screw in the correct location is a perfect fix also. No need to remove the barrel.
Good luck,
Zach
millertimebmw 1 year ago
@millertimebmw Thanks I will review this although my wife starts getting cross whenever I say I am going to fix something on her car :D :D
so basically I drill a small hole but not into the barrel? or do I go into the barrel to lock it?
clartsonly 1 year ago
hey do u know if the tumbler controls steering wheel lock?
wizzardg 1 year ago
@wizzardg Yes it does.
Zach
millertimebmw 1 year ago
cool video man hope u can give me some feed back first i started the car and my steering wheel did not unlock then i turned off car then i could not the ignition anymore do u know if that is the tumbler that is broken
wizzardg 1 year ago
@wizzardg Yes, it is broken, follow the steps in this video to fix it!
Good luck,
Zach
millertimebmw 1 year ago
I don't understand why he drilled then ran that screw in. Was there a screw that had to be drilled out in order for him to remove the tumbler?
forcetoregister 1 year ago
@forcetoregister No, no screw to remove, only the new one to hold it in place:D
millertimebmw 1 year ago
@forcetoregister No, the screw holds the tumbler in place so it won't spin again!
Zach
millertimebmw 1 year ago
LOL Man this tumbler IS Dumb I got to Do one in MY 97 M3 happen this week After the Flange Let Go On the Header I was like Fuck as soon as i got home i go to Kill the Car the Key comes OUT ! Now I'm Rely Pissed OFF got to Fix two things Now well I welded the Flange Back Oh the Header and now got to Fix the KEy tumbler yeah what a week for me I just temp fixed the Header for Now till it gets Nicer out ill put some Brand New ones.but yeah THis IS One of the " Best Video's " I've Seen!!!
669Banshee 2 years ago
I did this repair without removing the barrel. just lined the barrel up to where it would be when putting the key in, reset the back of the ignition and gently drilled the hole and inserted the screw. worked a treat. got very bored of messing with paperclips!!!!!!
jdbefc3 2 years ago
HI Could you answer a question please.
once u have put the screw in plave can you turn the car on and off as normal ?cheers
402kingsroad 2 years ago
ps sorry about all comments connection playing up
402kingsroad 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Zach can you turn the car on and off as normal when you use the screw technique?
Ps I am british so a bit dumb at times. Great video by the way
402kingsroad 2 years ago
Zach can you turn the car on and off as normal when you use the screw technique?
Ps I am british so a bit dumb at times. Great video by the way
402kingsroad 2 years ago
How far do you insert the bobby clip? ive been trying now for almost an hour and i cant get it right :/....
Guldis89 2 years ago
I have a similar problem...except that my tumbler can't be turned...it's stuck.
Is there a diy fix for this also or should I just go ahead and order the tumbler?
Archangel552 2 years ago
To my fellow BMW homiess
before BUYING a new tumbler
RESET YOUR IGNITION....
By removing the Round Maroon/Poop brown (seen in background of video)
A metal post will now be exposed.
(use plyers and turn counter-clock wise)
should click* Rod my glide further into cylinder* Re-assemble. Start Car ps. dont forget to re-insert key sensor ring!
neweraHIPHOP09 2 years ago
I just want you to know your video is awesome. After watching your video my friend and my myself (two girls) were able to replace the ignition cylinder on a 1996 BMW Z3 in under an hour. We were very proud of ourselves. It works like a charm now. We had no problems. Two questions. I need to replace the temperature gauge and the front driver seat. Do you have any videos on that?
hollithompson 2 years ago
I don't have any videos but I'll check a friends Z3 and see what I can find!
Congrats! Also, what's your second question?
:D
Zach
millertimebmw 2 years ago
Hi Zach
Great Vid. If I use the screw as shown can I turn the car on and off as normal without having to undo tighten the screw etc.
Sorry for being dumb but am british #
many thanks
john p
402kingsroad 2 years ago
Zach can you turn the car on and off as normal when you use the screw technique?
Ps I am british so a bit dumb at times. Great video by the way
402kingsroad 2 years ago
so if my tumbler is spinning and i cant get it out just use the screw method to get it to work again?
neweraHIPHOP09 2 years ago
Yes!
Good Luck!
Zach
millertimebmw 2 years ago
Hi i did what u did and works i placed the new tumbler and everything back together and the car turns on but one problem when i remove the key the tumbler locks and does not allow the key to come back in place, so i have to take everything apart remove the ignition switch and pull with the pliers from the other side of the housing and the key will get in. Any idea what is the problem? do i need to replace the housing? if i have to replace it any directions or video to do it?
Athosqp 2 years ago
Humm, that sounds interesting. It should return to the full position. Are you sure the screw is in the correct position? Please let me know!
Zach
millertimebmw 2 years ago
mannn i dont knoe who u are (Zach) but you are a homiee...this video is amazing keep up the good work!! Question in regards to the drill screw..is that to hold the tumbler (spinning) in postion to get hair pin in?
neweraHIPHOP09 2 years ago
Thanks for the compliments!
To answer your question, no, the screw is to "repair" the lock!
Zach
millertimebmw 2 years ago
basically my tumbler is spinning..ordered new tumbler from bmw already its on the way...my problem is i can get broken tumbler out because its spinning! What do i do?
neweraHIPHOP09 2 years ago
I have send you the photos of my ignition and steering column, have you recived them?
Lowlander1984 2 years ago
just a quick update-3 months on from following your advice with the screw and still working like the day it was made!! Thanks again for the time,money and hassle you saved me. Use the screw folks-it realy realy realy works!!!!
neilkeith1970 2 years ago
2. What should I do to reset the ignition, have to spin the the part of the shaft that goes to the red connector? and if should i spin it clockwise or counter?
3. Where to drill this hole? And if I will not do this will it work? or it has to be done before i can try to start the car?
My tumbler is not spining around just from position 0 where i can pull out the key to position start.
Looking forward for the answer cause I'm stuck :(
Greets from Poland
Lowlander1984 2 years ago
Hi I have a quite strange problem with my ignition tumbler, that is it swiches to position 1 but still the steering wheel is locked if i push the key to position 2 and further no reaction the shaft that goes to the red plastic connector is moving to position 2 when the key is in the start position and the only reaction is that it swiches on the display.
My first question is how to unlock the steering wheel so i can do anything further??.
Lowlander1984 2 years ago
OK it sounds like your shaft is not set to the turn of the key.
Try to take off the red electrical connector on the back side and rotate the shaft clockwise. This will reset the key and shaft to the same "off" position. let me know if this solves your problem. then we can discuss the screw location.
Zach
millertimebmw 2 years ago
Ok that is done and should probably work, but I didn't checked this out because I pulled out my steering wheel with the airbag and disconnected my battery to avoid airbag problems. Still don't know how to unlock the steering wheel, Is there any way to bypass it? or to disarm it?. If there is now other way tell me how to destroy it, Really I'm desperate.
Thanks for the reply!
Lowlander1984 2 years ago
Do you have access to a camera? You could send photo of exactly what your steering column looks like. If not can you tell me if there is a shaft sticking out on the left hand side of the steering column?
Zach
millertimebmw 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
I have pictures, if you can give me your email i will send them to you in a flash
Lowlander1984 2 years ago
ive been trying to do this for a week. i cant get the the tumbler out to save my life. i cant find the correct position where the 'spring action' is. before i can pull it out. how do i find it?
-btw, do you happen to know if e36 coupe hood hinges will fit an e36 sedan? lol
darec318 2 years ago
I'm not sure if the hinges work. I think they are different part #'s.
Zach.
*see post above for your other question*
millertimebmw 2 years ago
Great video, however, my key will not turn at all inside the ignition barrel, it us stuck in the ignition position. I have bought a new barrel but can't get the old one out because the hole will not line up on 90 degrees! Please help, what an I do?
simonniven1 2 years ago
On the back side of the barrel you will see a red connector with wires attached to it. Remove the two "grub" screws on the bottom, holding it to the housing.
You will then see a shaft. Turn the shaft clockwise and the ignition will lock. Then try to remove the barrel from the housing.
Let me know how else I can help!
Zach
millertimebmw 2 years ago
thank you for the vid. it was very informative. sadly i didnt come across it sooner. i had already removed the whole housing from the steering column in an attempt to see how to remove the barrel since initial attempts at using a similar method to yours failed. i have ended up paying for a whole new housing and barrel since a crack developed on the housing. thanks again!
kamikaziboy3210 2 years ago
Hey, miller time. Ok, so I got my new tumbler from BMW the other day. And this thing wont fricken fit. I have tried every angle. Watched the DIY video. Lined everything up and it still wont go in. Im preety much stuck and no m3
any ideas? did bmw give me the wrong one?
Plus you said reset something???
let me know asap. Thanks
pappuleast 2 years ago
Thank you so much Zak, you have saved me so much work. What i thought would take hours took 15mins following your advise. May want to show taking the orange bit off to reset the barrel or tumbler as you say over their. But again many many thanks-and yes people the screw does fix your barrel. Also worth saying if you use the screw to fix it it dosent have to be removed so long as youve reset ignition. Zak, i could kiss you!!! haha
neilkeith1970 2 years ago
Thanks so much Neilkeith!
I didn't want to show too much and risk teaching people how to steal older cars!!!
Thanks for the kind compliments!
millertimebmw 2 years ago
plenty of uncertainty here....
once the frustration of removing the tumbler is completed, is a new tumbler required or can the old one be re-used by drilling a screw where he showed???
please advise
dtmvelocity 2 years ago
Screw works :)
millertimebmw 2 years ago
i have a 97 328i the key just spins. car itself in the ON position, i connect the battery and pop the clutch to start it - ican drive it. you can have the key in or out and turn the key to what ever positoni you want to and the car will keep running and is drivable. PROBLEM is i can't shut it off. Ican't get the cylinder out. I turn the key to proper position but no luck Do i drill and put that little screw in or keep trying to get it out? thanks in advance for any help.
warrenb3 2 years ago
man, how do u get the new ignition cylinder back in? i was able to get the old one off and slide it back in numerous times(months ago) but now i can't get the new one or the old one back in. when i took the old one out, the car was making that doors open pinging noise, when i put the new one in, it didn't go in all the way, but when i turned the key it stopped the pinging noise. what's going on?
ratedtriplex 2 years ago
What this means is that the internals of the lock assembly (the part the cylinder goes onto isn't full in the locker position.
You will need to take off the red connector off the back of the assembly (the one with all of the wires attached to it) and reset the shaft coming out of the steering wheel.
Can you move the steering wheel as it is now?
Good luck!
Zach
millertimebmw 2 years ago
Its driving me crazy to hear you say "tumbler" over and over again. Its not a tumbler, its the ignition cylinder or simply ignition switch. A tumbler is the wafer looking parts on the inside of the cylinder itself. its what lines up to allow the cylinder to turn.
chrisgo77 2 years ago
Common mistake but duly noted.
millertimebmw 2 years ago
M 98 323i will start, but my steering wheel stays locked. I have wiggled my steering wheel, but no use. Does the ignition tumbler have anything to do with the steering wheel lock? I don't want to buy a new tumbler and not have my steering wheel lock not fixed. Thank you!
p.s. my key does spin occasionally, but I want to know if the steering wheel lock and ignition tumbler are related.
avus323i 2 years ago
This is an interesting one, the car starts because the key, turns the internals of the lock which spins a shaft that turns the ignition switch on to start the car. So your steering wheel should unlock before the car starts.
Technically, the steering wheel should be unlocked with the first click of the ignition.
Any updates?
millertimebmw 2 years ago
I am having the same problem as LinfrodN, I only can get to one click just unlocking the steering wheel. In another commet later on someone said theres a tab to reset the tumbler so I could get to the second click has anyone verified this works?
mindslide9 2 years ago
There isn't a tab per-say, there is a tab piece that breaks and this is why the ignition spins.
millertimebmw 2 years ago
Does the steering wheel have to be unlocked for this to work? Its a 1992 318i and the key only makes one click them spins freely to the start position not all the way around. Tried this for a couple hours no luck. Any advice?
LinfordN 2 years ago
Yes.You will need to unlock the steering column.
millertimebmw 2 years ago
Ok, so you have ESWII which is a transponder chip in the key. If your tumbler isn't moving at all (is it stuck or does it spin?). You can use another tumbler but you will need two keys to unlock the doors etc. and 1 to start the car.
So to answer your question, YES :)
Cheers
millertimebmw 2 years ago
mate, you are spot on, however, see if you can work this out, my e36 coupe on 95 year, has the same key as you, but it dont turn in my tumbler at all, it is only acting as the imobliser unit, now if i change my tumbler out of a 92 saloon car, and stranp my key around the arieal, will i get away with it and start my car, with the new keys????
fonemagic 2 years ago
Great job!
Thanks!
oradea1977 2 years ago
Thanks for the Vid ,but it didn't work for me.
I had to remove the 2 grub screws at the back of the ignition barrel assy, pull the red plastic part off, "reset" the ignition by twisting the protruding part with pliers, then reassemble.
Then it worked. No drilling, no fiddling with pins, no new parts.
JHL687467 2 years ago
You should now add these screws now. The reason it began to spin is because it is broken and the screws will hold it in place. :)
millertimebmw 2 years ago
I was wondering about that. Thanks for the fast reply- I'm off to drill a hole in my car...
JHL687467 2 years ago
So for the repair of the existing broken ignition, do you just drill a hole and put a screw in to stop it from spinning? cheers
sjanett09 2 years ago
In a nutshell...yes!
millertimebmw 2 years ago
Hi my 95 BM has a spinning problem and is set at the ingnition on position its really hard to get the antenna ring off will I just go ahead and drill and tap it with the screw are does it have to be in another position????? Thanks
cormie007 2 years ago
my lock is not spinning because is stuck in position no 2...how i get out the contact?sorry for my english but i'm from romanian and i don't speeck verry well english...
cryptowork 2 years ago
I have a 2004 325I and my Valet key is broken in side the tumbler. I can start the car by inserting in the end of the key and turning the whole cylinder. HELP How can I get this broken key out. Thanx
KennyKatt1962 2 years ago
you are the best........carry on...
yannisk3 2 years ago
man,I've been trying for the last 3 hours to get this thing out.Then I watched your vid and popped it out in 2 minutes.Excellent!
rw5791 3 years ago
I currently have this problem - went into the store, came out, put the key in and after the first click, the key just spun loose. Cant even get the steering wheel to unlock! Mine is a 1992 - 325I - can I replace the tumbler and key with a used one from a junk yard - if I am able to find one around here??? This is my only form of transportation - and as of right now, its stuck in the parking lot!!!
Would greatly appreciate any suggestions!
shellygoehmann 3 years ago
except for having to carry around 2 keys (1 for the door and 1 for the ignition), it is a viable and inexpensive option. I'd suggest you try this fix if you have the time to try it out.
s52e36m3 3 years ago
Good Vid but.. you flew through the most important step of where exactly you're drilling the hole for the screw etc! Would have been nice to see it with the tumbler out still..
infamousneek 3 years ago
great video which helped me solve this quickly... i'd like to add that if your lock is not spinning freely and has become stuck in any position, it needs to be reset by removing the ignition switch at the back of the tumbler itself and using plyers to turn the shaft until it pops back in...
else, my ///M3 is very grateful for ur post!
s52e36m3 3 years ago
I currently have this problem - went into the store, came out, put the key in and after the first click, the key just spun loose. Cant even get the steering wheel to unlock! Mine is a 1992 - 325I - can I replace the tumbler and key with a used one from a junk yard - if I am able to find one around here??? This is my only form of transportation - and as of right now, its stuck in the parking lot!!!
Would greatly appreciate any suggestions!
shellygoehmann 3 years ago
Great post. I am having this problem and I heard that the problem might be the steering lock instead of the tab. Are you sure it's the tab. Also, you are not showing why you are putting the screw in. Do we need to put the screw in with the new ignition tumbler? I assume you are using the screw with the old ignition tumbler with the little tab broken off. Does that mean that if we remove the damaged tumbler that has the little tab broken off, then re-position it and screw it in, it will work?
amizan1979 3 years ago
yes, this is showing a old "broken" tumbler being "repaired" with the screw.
I would think a new tumbler would not need the screw, "over kill???"
Thanks for watching!
Z
millertimebmw 3 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
I currently have this problem - went into the store, came out, put the key in and after the first click, the key just spun loose. Cant even get the steering wheel to unlock! Mine is a 1992 - 325I - can I replace the tumbler and key with a used one from a junk yard - if I am able to find one around here??? This is my only form of transportation - and as of right now, its stuck in the parking lot!!!
Would greatly appreciate any suggestions!
shellygoehmann 3 years ago
thanks
gavjn88 3 years ago
Thank you for taking the time to save us time!!! :-)
Cheers D
dbilner 3 years ago
glad I could help!
millertimebmw 3 years ago
Very good instruction video.
e28m30 3 years ago
Thank you !!!
millertimebmw 3 years ago
Thanks WOUT !!!!!!!
:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D
millertimebmw 3 years ago