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3-Series (E36)Chat relating to the BMW 3-Series from 1992-1999. Autodoodad
Specific models include: BMW 316i, BMW 318i, BMW 318iS/ti, BMW 320, BMW 323, BMW 320, BMW 324, BMW 325, BMW 328.
I have a 1996 318ti and I can't get the ignition to turn on, or even move. The ignition is frozen in place and the keys will not turn it. The steering wheel moves freely back and forth. The computer thinks the engine in "on" as the indicator lights are on.
Before the ignition became locked, I noticed the steering range was moving a lot further than usual. As I attempted to shut off the car, the ignition locked in place. I then had to "kill" the car by placing it in gear. I've attempted to remove the lock cylinder, but have had no luck since I can't orient the key hole in the correct positoin for removal.
I had to disconnect the battery as I played around with it, since the indicator lights are constantly on.
wow this is a tough one, ive never heard of this problem , maybe if extech sees this or if you PM him he can maybe respond he has more tech experience and maybe can help you out a little better.
possible that steering lock is busted ... causing the the ECU to think the car is on therefore disabling the ignition ... you may need to do something with the steering column to fix it ....
__________________ <span style='color:blue'><span style='font-family:Arial'>If I try to be like everyone else, who's going to try and be like me?</span></span>
<span style='color:blue'><span style='font-family:Arial'>Mi casa no es su casa, hijo de puta.</span></span>
spray sume lubricating wd 40 into the cyclinder and wiggle the key back and forth and up and down also push and pull one of the plats insdie might have jam so its out of postion and wont slide back. also like the othe guy said take it all apart and look at the wheel and how the licking mechansim works .if all else fales make the last attmept buy using vice grips and forcing until it brreak then simply drill the bitch out
I appreciate all the info guys. I think I'll try whitebeemer328's suggestion and keep fidging it with WD40. Hopefully the piece-o-shit comes loose!
I really don't want to take the steering column apart or even worse, pay the dealer
to take it apart. Scheet!
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