Author Topic: remove ignition switch in 1991 318i ? (Read 5183 times)

91_e30_m42 · « **on:** June 05, 2009, 09:04:08 PM »

like the title says im trying to remove the ignition switch out of my 318i because the old owner broke the key inside the cylinder. i have everything taken apart and disconnected but i cant take the cylinder assembly out, i dont see any screws or bolts HELP PLEASE

DesktopDave · « **Reply #1 on:** June 05, 2009, 10:41:00 PM »

I heard around that if you can force the cylinder with a BIG flat bladed screwdriver to position 1, a little pin lines up & the cylinder slides out. You'd need a replacement cylinder & tumblers. Not sure if this is for the e30 or e36. You could also drill drill drill.

91_e30_m42 · « **Reply #2 on:** June 07, 2009, 08:41:30 AM »

nevermind i got the tumbler out without taking out the whole assembly. i used one of my wifes bobby pins, stuck it in a little hole right beside the keyhole and you slightly turn it and it just pops out

DesktopDave · « **Reply #3 on:** June 07, 2009, 08:57:16 AM »

You should snap some pics...you pulled the column covers, right? Is it on top or under the lock cylinder?

91_e30_m42 · « **Reply #4 on:** June 07, 2009, 11:45:21 AM »

to tell you the truth i think you only have to remove the plaastic ring in front of the tumbler, if you look at the tumbler youll see a small hole next to the key hole, you turn the key two clicks, put in the small hole the opened bobby pin, turn the pin and pull out on tumbler, and there you have it the tumbler is in your hand

DesktopDave · « **Reply #5 on:** June 07, 2009, 07:10:34 PM »

I took the steering covers off my parts car, there is a little hole underneath the housing about where the lock cylinder ends, maybe 5" in from the plastic ring.

91_e30_m42 · « **Reply #6 on:** June 07, 2009, 10:05:21 PM »

the hole to remove just the tumbler is right next to the keyhole^^