Trouble Starting...

[Damnit]

hi, i have a 1999 323i with around 63k miles on it. well i put my key in like normal and turn it twice, the ignition system catches on like normal. i go to turn the key and nothing happens...it turns but nothing NOTHING happens. when i let go and go again it locks and does not turn anymore. so i left it in the parking lot overnight and came to it the next day, it started somehow...so i drove it to the mech. and he said that if it started it is fine because they ran a test or something and they say it is all internitent. so i try to start the car to drive home, and the same thing happens. NOTHING happens. so they have my car and are stumped. they thought it was the key, so i gave them my other key and nothing still happens. They have no clue and still have my car.

i was thinking that it is maybe the ignition coil, because the car has been having some piston problems (misfiring and causing the emitions light to come on if i shift at low revs <2.5) so i am not sure and hoping someone here could have the answer.

THanks

[meangreen94z]

When you turn the key what exactly does it do? Does it turn over? Does it not crank at all? Do the panel lights dim or die away completely?

I would figure if the key turns completely and does nothing, but then locks up, it almost sounds like something to do with security(I'm not familiar with BMW's security systems though)