Spinning ignition barrel - United Bimmer Community

**mesteptoe** · 12-24-2009, 03:25 AM

The key on my 1995 (E36) now goes round and round in the lock. I have seen a few notes about extracting the barrel and presumably, if I do that, I could get a replacement. However, what are the chances that the steering lock is also damaged? If it is do I need to put it back - I think that part is expensive.

All suggestions welcomed about the best thing to do.

I have been quoted £62 to replace the barrel (not too bad) but £272 to replace barrel and steering lock.

Thank you.

Graham

**David Mc** · 12-24-2009, 02:03 PM

This is a very common problem with E36's. Just replace the ignition barrel or repair it like I did (see http://www.unitedbimmer.com/forums/e...el-repair.html ).

**Winter** · 04-07-2010, 12:48 AM

Seems that there is this plastic break off tab installed just in case somebody wants to try and start your car with a screwdriver, ( not sure how true that story is but it works for me). The tab breaks off anyway leaving you with a spinning barrel hopefully not leaving the car in the on position forcing you to stall it. Some people drill a hole and stick a screw in there to act as the pin. Others replace the barrel, and break the same pin two years later. Youtube has videos showing how to fix it. I've found that its much easier to fix if it hasnt totally broken yet, and just spins once in awhile. To those with the intermitant spin around, fix it now before its too late and adds much to the suck factor.