Ignition Lock

[corys318isride]

I have a 91 318is, I got in my car to start it and the key turns over enough to roll windows down but not enought to start the car but then the key can turn off and come out, so its not stuck in the ignition. What would the problem be???

[YetiX]

I had the same problem right after I got my car. Turned out the plastic ignition switch cracked and I had to replace it.  There are two little plastic "ears" on the switch which get brittle and snap off with age.  You just remove the steering wheel, the two trim pieces and the ignition switch unclips from the back of the lock cylinder.  Unplug it and replace it with a new one. Done.

[corys318isride]

Where can I get the ignition switch? I am also having a hard time getting the steering wheel off, do I need a special tool for the bolt?

[bmwm42]

After you remove the nut you have to put your key in the ignition then the steering should come right off it has a pin that locks the steering wheel in place  to protect against thieves

[YetiX]

The bolt is a 22mm.  With the steering wheel locked (key out), just undo the bolt.  Then, as bmwm42 said, you put the key in and turn it one position to release the steering lock and the wheel comes off.  Make sure you center the wheel before you do this so you can out it back on straight.  Usually, when I put mine back on, I actually drive the car down the street and make sure the wheel is on straight before I bolt it down.

To remove the steering column covers, there are two phillips head screws on either side and one more underneath, under a little cover you have to pop off.  You'll see it if you look under the steering column. Then it just takes a bit of wiggling and pulling and they'll work off.  

You may also have to remove the thigh bolster, I can't remember where the ignition switch plugs in.

This is the parts diagram:



You want part no. 3 which is $58.90 retail.  There are two different ones, with and without airbag, although I don't honestly think it makes a difference which one you get.  My car is an airbag car (no airbag wheel though) and I got a switch out of a non-airbag car to get my car rolling again until I could get to the dealer.  I now have a brand new switch from the dealer in there.

You can see in the diagram how it just clips on the back end of the lock cylinder.  Once you see it for yourself it really will make sense and is simple.