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I drive a 1998 BMW 328i. This evening, I turned the key in

Sent to BMW Experts October 1 2008 at 9:32 PM
   

I drive a 1998 BMW 328i. This evening, I turned the key in the ignition to start the car. The engine turned over half-way and then stopped. It made an odd sound as if the starter seized up. At that time, the ignition seized up in the "on" position. The constant power is on, the automatic transmission can be shifted, and the key can be removed from the ignition. I tried removing the negative battery cable and reattaching it to no effect. At this time the car is sitting with the battery disconnected. What can I do and get the car back up and running?

 

Optional Information:
1998 BMW 328i 2.8L in line 6

Already Tried:
Disconnected battery and reconnected it. Giggled the key in the ignition.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value:  $40
Answer
October 1 2008 at 9:42 PM (9 minutes and 56 seconds later)
         
Hello, It sounds like your Ignition lock cylinder has failed. It may have happened last time you drove the vehicle and shut it off. It was likely still on causing your battery to drain. You need a new lock cylinder and possibly the housing. I would also recommend charging and testing the battery. Thank-you and Please Accept my answer if I have helped, Sincerely, Jacob.
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jacob -- BMW Technician -- 97% Positive Feedback on 261 BMW Accepts
Master BMW and Master ASE Certified
Reply
October 1 2008 at 10:06 PM (24 minutes and 4 seconds later)
         
Ignition lock cylinder isn't covered in my Bentley Service Manual. Is this a professional-only repair? If so, what is the approximate cost?
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
October 1 2008 at 10:30 PM (23 minutes and 41 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark

Hello, The cost of the cylinder I believe is under one hundred dollars. Depending on if the cylinder can be put into the correct position for removal would depend on the cost. If you look closely at it you will see little hole along the perimeter of the inner ring. this is where you put a long tool to release the cylinder in position one. However, if the cylinder is disconnected at the wrong position it may be required to replace the housing also which would be a few hours labor compared to like one hour or less. Removal is tricky as is installation. You want the cylinder in position One, one click back from where you are. One thing you may try just to get it functional for now is inserting the key and tapping the end of it lightly with a small hammer to try to re-engage the cylinder. I have been lucky with this from time to time. So in short your looking at two to five hundred dollars. Thank-you and please Accept. Best regards Jacob.

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jacob -- BMW Technician -- 97% Positive Feedback on 261 BMW Accepts
Master BMW and Master ASE Certified
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