How do I remove the keyed ignition cylinder?

[A930Rocket]

1991 318is.

How do I remove the cylinder from the steering column switch? My ignition is keyed differently than my doors for some reason and I want them all on one key.

[Yurick]

Jim,
If it's anything like I have seen on my older Japanese cars, the bolts securing the lock to the steering column are not designed to come out (the bolt heads shear off). So, I had to do some tapping and drilling on the bolt stumps to get them out. I hope you have an easier time with yours.

[A930Rocket]

Thanks Yurick.

I finally hit the cylinder out by using a very small Allen wrench. You insert the key and turn it part way, then you can insert the wrench in the hole below the key and release the cylinde while pulling it out.

I also found out there is s spring loaded gizmo in there that locks/unlocks the steering column. Gotta work on getting that back in.

[A930Rocket]

Took the lock cylinder to my locksmith, but he couldn't figure out to remove the keyed portion from the cylinder.

Anybody know how to rekey the cylinder?

[bostogrun]

Stick a straightened paper clip into the little hole near the key slot. Bend the paper clip like an L and turn it clockwise until about two oclock. You should feel a little resistence and should be able to feel a prawl retract. You should then be ableto pull the cylinder out with the key. There are a lot of good tutorials on this out there. Just Google "Remove e36 lock cylinder"

[A930Rocket]

I was able to get it out, but it wasn't a piece of cake. Took some work to find the right spot.

Went to the dealer and was able to order a new cylinder and key based on the VIN. Should be here tomnorrow or the next day.

Originally Posted by bostogrun

Stick a straightened paper clip into the little hole near the key slot. Bend the paper clip like an L and turn it clockwise until about two oclock. You should feel a little resistence and should be able to feel a prawl retract. You should then be ableto pull the cylinder out with the key. There are a lot of good tutorials on this out there. Just Google "Remove e36 lock cylinder"