How do I fix my 1998 E36 316i South African Edition BMW which won't switch on after the Tumbler and Tumbler Housing has been replaced with new parts and the starter motor and code box has been tested?

The reason that the key wouldn't turn must have come from a malfunction of the ignition switch or the connecting rod, rather than the just the tumbler. Since the dash lights & gauges work now, at least part of the ignition switch is working, but apparently not the part that's engaged when the switch is turned to the "start" position.
By replacing just the tumbler, the dealership tech would have jiggled the connecting rod just enough to reseat it (and fix the jam that was causing the key to fail to turn in the tumbler), but didn't fix the real problem, which seems to be a worn out ignition switch or worn connecting/actuating rod.

Here's your steering column anatomy - illustration courtesy Ford Motor Company.

The ignition lock cylinder or tumbler for a 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix should not cost you any more then $25 dollars at a part store such as Auto Zone or Advanced Auto. If you actually need a whole new ignition switch that could run you as much as $150. Keep in mind that the lock cylinder and the ignition switch are two different things. I hope this helps.

Hi Kevin,

If you removed the original tumbler check to make sure the alignment tab on the edge of the tumbler did not break off and stay in the housing. The tab is very small, about 1-2mm and the housing has a small indentation where the tab lines up, I also recommend making sure to use the removal tool or pin clip to install the replacement tumbler.

dead battery

With the title and an insurance card your dealer can cut a new key by the VIN if you have never replaced the lock cylinder before. If not it will be remove the column covers, drill out the lock and try not to damage the lock housing. Good Luck

It is the passlock seneor. Is the wiring a 2 wire connector with an orange coating? If so then the connection is at the base of the column.You can tape the new wiring to a coat hanger put grease on it and fish it down through the column. You will have to perform a theft learn when you get it back together. Good Luck.

replace ignition switch with a new key.

hi markjones, the ignition switch can usually be removed without too much disassembly. First you will need to remove a plastic screw in the upper and lower trim covers. Seperate the covers. You should see a black plastic ring around the mechanical switch. gentley remove the ring. Next remove the rubber o-ring/band. With the key in the iginition and turned to almost to position 1, insert a heavy duty paper clip, or bmw special tool (about $30 from the dealer) into the small hole in the switch. There is a cam in the hole that needs to be twisted clockwise so the cylinder can be removed. When installing a new switch make sure to remove the little tab pice of metal that usually breaks off in the housing. Also be sure to make sure and reinstall the rubber ring/band because they are part of the ews system. If you key turns continuously, or is not able to be removed, the ignition housing and cylinder both will need replaced. Replacing the lock housing is about a 2 hour sequence and can be challenging. I would recommend a shop for that kind of repair.

I have had this same problem on 4 of my Jeeps. A locksmith provided me with two answers.
This key thing happens to me at least once a week.
It is a common problem with Jeeps. 1998 Wrangler, 2007 Cherokee and two 2000 Cherokees all had the issue.


1. Replace the tumbler assembly. $150. USD (Not!)
2. Place the key in the ignition, smartly impact the key on the **** end, end that is sticking out of the ignition. (Harder is not better) strike straight on as to not break the key off. 4 or 5 strikes should fix the problem every time.

FYI - flooding the switch with WD-40 will not fix the issue, it is a tumbler problem.

if you replaced the tumbler with a new one the key and tumbler have to be programed to match your truck or it will not get the signal to shut off the anti theft,