Steering Wheel Ignition Nightmare
 

If Asked and answered...please share link. I looked to no avail.

I get in my car three days ago and find the key will not turn. It acted as if the steering wheel was in the lock position. I turn the wheel and it locks...so, that wasn't it. Now the car starts without issue.

Here's the problem. The steering wheel is stuck in the lock position with the car running. I have to turn the wheel left and right (with force) in order to free-up the steering. There is a snap/pop when the wheel frees, leading me to believe it is a lock pin of some sort. This has continued to be the issue for the past couple of days.

I have yet to open the steering column to investigate. I know what it looks like in there...have a feeling it's an internal part that will be hidden from view.

Ideas? Links?
Please keep in mind that I do not partake in libations. So, Jack Daniels isn't going to help me this time around.

Hey Sean!

There is a release pin lever in the lock housing that releases when you insert the key and turn to position '1'. The pin lever is in the cylinder housing that holds the key cylinder. Perhaps it needs lube but it's inside the housing itself.

The lever presses and releases the pin that locks the steering wheel. The housing is held on with shear bolts I had to grind off. The housing is a dealer item around $130 with BMWCCA discount.

If nothing else works for you, I have a spare column on my parts car I can send you for shipping cost off a 95 ti. You just remove your ignition cylinder with a bobby pin and transfer it to the replacement column. You'll need replacement Shear or Allen bolts.

Prolly cheaper to find a column local, (and off a 94 E36 sedan to get a height adjustable one). But if you can't find one, PM me and I'll remove and send you this one. Ring me if have a ?.

Good luck my man!

Rich :cool:

Thank you Rich. I'll investigate and be in touch with my findings.

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Removed lower plastic cover, drilled hole, removed spring. Problem solved.
Happy Motoring