Steering column locked can't turn key!!!!

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  • E30Ebanks
    Noobie
    • Jul 2011
    • 8
    #1

    Steering column locked can't turn key!!!!

    Parked my 325i at work all was fine, went to clock out and fire it up the steering lock is jammed. Nudged and wiggled my wheel while turning the key but no luck. Hit it with a mallet to jar it loose nothing.....
    I got my car towed home now its time to get my hands dirty but before I remove my whole column is there any way to drill the lock loose or out????
    Tags: None
    • Komzorz
      Grease Monkey
      • Jun 2011
      • 332
      #2
      I think as you start disassembling the column, eventually you can just pull the lock cylinder out.

      I haven't gotten as far as the lock cylinder in my BMW's column, but typically you can remove components from the column rather easily. I recommend disassembly with screwdrivers and a bentley manual before you get into drills and other serious shit.
      '87 325is - Schwarz/Schwarz

        Comment

        • jlevie
          R3V OG
          • Nov 2006
          • 13530
          #3
          If you can turn the ignition key you can remove the lock cylinder. With the lock cylinder out you may be able to release the lock.
          The car makes it possible, but the driver makes it happen.
          Jim Levie, Huntsville, AL

            Comment

            • E30Ebanks
              Noobie
              • Jul 2011
              • 8
              #4
              Originally posted by jlevie
              If you can turn the ignition key you can remove the lock cylinder. With the lock cylinder out you may be able to release the lock.
              The problem is the key won't budge.

                Comment

                • E30Ebanks
                  Noobie
                  • Jul 2011
                  • 8
                  #5
                  Originally posted by Komzorz
                  I think as you start disassembling the column, eventually you can just pull the lock cylinder out.

                  I haven't gotten as far as the lock cylinder in my BMW's column, but typically you can remove components from the column rather easily. I recommend disassembly with screwdrivers and a bentley manual before you get into drills and other serious shit.
                  Is it possible to take the column out with it locked?

                    Comment

                    • Komzorz
                      Grease Monkey
                      • Jun 2011
                      • 332
                      #6
                      Originally posted by E30Ebanks
                      Is it possible to take the column out with it locked?
                      Well when you're disassembling the column, you might be able to push the pin in from the other side which will let it go. I mean, I'm guessing that it has gotten hung up on something.

                      A lot of time I find myself just fixing problems by getting in there, disassembling it the right way, and relubricating old parts.
                      '87 325is - Schwarz/Schwarz

                        Comment

                        • AndrewBird
                          The Mad Scientist
                          • Oct 2003
                          • 11897
                          #7
                          Just to clarify, does the key turn or no? If it does, but it won't unlock the steering wheel, I would try pulling the wheel off and seeing if the tab/pin that locks the wheel in place is jammed. It's right on top and is about 1/4" square.

                          If the key won't turn at all, it is likely due to a worn out ignition lock or a worn out key. Have you tried wiggling the key as you turn? Try a squirt of oil i the lock cylinder as well. Could just be some sticking wafers/pins.

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