Spinning Key

[BrianTZ3]

So I have the spinning key issue. I guess, from what I read, the tumbler is broken. I was able to pull off the orange ignition switch and can start it with a screwdriver, so I can drive it. Do I have any recourse other than going to the dealer for (prison) love? I have a 98 Z3 2.8. It has the ECM "feature".

Thanks all. Frustrated today.

[Vintage42]

... spinning key... can start it with a screwdriver, so I can drive it. Do I have any recourse other than going to the dealer...

This thread gets interesting at Post #14.
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...blems-dead-car
A DIY:
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...ck-Replacement

[Randy Forbes]

This thread gets interesting at Post #14.
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...blems-dead-car
A DIY:
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...ck-Replacement

Too bad there's no report on the resolution past post #16.

I just hate that...

[Mr Bingley]

So you can buy a tumbler already keyed to your car from the dealer. No new key or chip issues involved. The only special tool needed is a bobby pin (hair pin). There are some really good youtube videos out there--they were really easy to find when I did this back in '15, and really easy to do as well. Here's a link to a good post on a similar set up.

[BrianTZ3]

Thanks! I'll try that

[sydjai]

Hey all,

I have a related problem with my ignition key, actually I think it's two different problems:

1. My key will spin in the ignition if I only partially insert it.
2. My car intermittently starts on the first try, usually it's the second try, and last night, I almost had to call the wife to come get me at work because I tried about 20 times before I got out, reset all the doors and the trunk, and got back in and it started! (I doubt that actually made any difference, but I was grasping at straws)

So from what I have researched here so far, is that my ignition key cylinder probably has the anti-theft pin sheared off. I saw a fix on a UK website where you drill the key cylinder and basically install a set screw to keep it from turning. That sounds very suspect and I don't really want to do that. I was just going to buy a new key cylinder from BMW as per Ralph's suggestion above, BUT......all the parts websites are showing those as NLA!!

From what I have gathered, my starter switch may be faulty, and I get a new one of those for about $70. I don't think it's a battery issue, all of the lights and dash and radio and HVAC come on in the accessory position. There is no audible click from the starter and the lights don't dim or anything, there's just nothing at the end of the key turn except a stop. And I don't think it's an EWS issue, because it does eventually start.

Does my analysis sound correct? Any ideas on fixing the lock cylinder since it's NLA?