Spare key works on doors, not ignition (bad ignition cylinder?)

[jhaurimn]

So as the title states....

I have two keys. One orig BMW key bent and worn but still works, and one spare that is fine. The spare does not work In the ignition but unlocks doors just fine.

So I went to go buy a new key but the parts guy at BMW said the tumbler could be worn so a new key might not even work.

So a new ignition cylinder from be around 80$, how hard is this to replace? And DIY on this? Do you think the ignition cylinder is the problem?

Thanks again r3vlimited for saving my ass :)

[jlevie]

The ignition cylinder is easy to replace if you have a key that will operate it.

[jhaurimn]

Well I am not worried about having a key. I'll end up having to order a new key regardless of what happens.

Just trying to figure out if I might need a new ignition cylinder too.

Soo I looked at my two keys and they are very similar but not exact . And that the spare that doesn't work in the ignition is slightly shorter. Would that matter in the ignition and not the door locks?

I'm going to inspect a little closer what the keys look like in the ignition tomorrow and do a little investigating myself. Just wanna know if someone has gone through this before

[illest318i]

My problem is a little similar to yours, but the other way around. My copied key doesn't work on the doors but it works on the ignition, pretty odd. And i broke the original trying to unlock the car soo pretty devastating if you ask me.

[E30_Pare]

Don't they have a cylinder rebuild kit. Basically replaces the tumblers if I recall. I know there is a kit for the doors. Not sure about the ignition, but why shouldn't there be.

[jhaurimn]

More opinions please:)

[jlevie]

I would say to get a new key, or two, from BMW. If they don't work the ignition, get a new lock cylinder from BMW. The keys you have may be worn and it sound's like one may be a poor copy.

[MP McGrael]

I don't have much experience with BMW keys, but I've cut countless house keys while working at a hardware store. From your description the copy sounds like a bad copy. It's probably not triggering all of the tumblers all the way. If the teeth are cut a bit too deep it won't push the tumblers all the way. Hope this reply isn't too late...

[jhaurimn]

Well, turns out my spare key was just a copy of my very bent original key. I tried it again in my door one day and it didn't work...so I decided to just buy a new key from BMW. Nothing wrong with the cylinders...just maybe with me -___-