Ignition switch replacement

[wrestlerdad]

Hey All,
I think the ignition switch on my 96 740 just gave up the ghost (steering wheel unlocked, cylinder will not turn with key in it). I know this is a silly question before I ask it, but is this an item that can be easily replaced using a salvage yard cylinder and key? Any help here is appreciated.

wrestlerdad

[wrestlerdad]

Oh,I forgot to mention the car is telling me the key is in the ignition when it isn't.

[007008]

Since you're adding the electrical glitch I'd start by removing the electrical part of the switch. Then see if the barrel works.

[wrestlerdad]

Since you're adding the electrical glitch I'd start by removing the electrical part of the switch. Then see if the barrel works.

Good point. I would rather replace the electrical part it actually seems like less hassle.

[Mayorchuck]

Can't go wrong replacing the iggy switch but I don't think it's your issue. I've replaced 2 barrels over the years. One was easy, one not so much as I let it go to long.

http://www.meeknet.co.uk/E31/Lock/E3...eplacement.htm

[wrestlerdad]

Can't go wrong replacing the iggy switch but I don't think it's your issue. I've replaced 2 barrels over the years. One was easy, one not so much as I let it go to long.

http://www.meeknet.co.uk/E31/Lock/E3...eplacement.htm

I would be interested in your opinion Chuck. Again the ignition cylinder will not turn with the key in it, the steering wheel is not locked and the display tells me the key is in the ignition when it isn't.

[Mayorchuck]

I would pull out the iggy switch to see if it is causing the key not to turn. I don't think it would do that but I would certainly rule it out. At that point you can at least use a screwdriver on the switch to start the car, provided the key is in or near the barrel. If the key is in the right position in the tumbler, you should be able to use Tim's method in the link to remove it.

[xboss]

Tis the season. I just replaced the barrel because it starting spinning and I did the switch just to get it over with and be new there but the old switch was in great shape except for maybe needing a cleaning.