Any locksmiths? How do I re-key my ignition switch?

[A930Rocket]

1991 318is.

I got the cylinder out of the ignition switch and took it to my locksmith, but they couldn't figure out how to remove the tumbler portion out of the cylinder.

Anybody know how to seperate the two so I can re-key it so I have one key?

BTW. Called the dealer and he didn't know anyone who could do it or get a keyed cylinder. Said I need to change ALL the door/trunk locks to match the ignition...

[red-beard]

There is actually FAQ on this in the tech pages, at least for the early Porsches.

Pelican Technical Article: Rekeying Porsche Locks

[A930Rocket]

Thinking about it some more, would the dealer be able to get me an ignition cylinder/switch keyed to the car/VIN?

[kaisen]

Originally Posted by A930Rocket

Thinking about it some more, would the dealer be able to get me an ignition cylinder/switch keyed to the car/VIN?

I'm pretty sure they can't anymore. It's been twenty years. Most mfrs go back ten.

A locksmith can set the ignition to match the doors/trunk. It's under $100, usually.

[red-beard]

Originally Posted by A930Rocket

BTW. Called the dealer and he didn't know anyone who could do it or get a keyed cylinder. Said I need to change ALL the door/trunk locks to match the ignition...

Yeah, or you can carry TWO KEYS. I did this on my college car until I decided to get all of the locks from the junk car I was slowly mounting onto my car body...

If I'm not clear, find a junk yard with similar car and get the full set of locks!

[A930Rocket]

OMG! Two keys?!?!

I must be OCD to want one key on the keyring I guess.

Before I go the route of changing all the locks or two keys, I'll see what my other options are, but there has to be a way to rekey the ignition switch. I've done it on other cars.

Called the dealer again and he said he could get it this time with proof of ownership. Same guy I talked to earlier, so I don't know why it's different now. I'll see when I get there if we are on the same page.

Originally Posted by red-beard

Yeah, or you can carry TWO KEYS. I did this on my college car until I decided to get all of the locks from the junk car I was slowly mounting onto my car body...

If I'm not clear, find a junk yard with similar car and get the full set of locks!

[Scuba Steve]

Quote de A930Rocket

Thinking about it some more, would the dealer be able to get me an ignition cylinder/switch keyed to the car/VIN?

I'm pretty sure they can't anymore. It's been twenty years. Most mfrs go back ten.



A locksmith can set the ignition to match the doors/trunk. It's under $100, usually.

We had no problems buying new keys or locksets for my wife's Volvo and it's 19 years old...

[A930Rocket]

I can buy a new or used set for the entire car, I'm just trying to save a buck and some time.

We had no problems buying new keys or locksets for my wife's Volvo and it's 19 years old...

[Joe Bob]

Ignition switch question, worn tumblers....

Link to tumbler split from the electrics.....

[notmytarga]

I made up a comprehensive and ignored post about the ignition switch a long while ago - I attacked it to fix the problem of it not allowing a consistant start or restart - the restart prevention function was overactive. Still working well after four years.

The post contains info on rekeying the ignition switch. IN A 911 ------

Ignition switch thread pictures

[Scuba Steve]

Originally Posted by A930Rocket

I can buy a new or used set for the entire car, I'm just trying to save a buck and some time.

I should've clarified - the new locks were because individually the ignition, and then the driver's door lock wore out and would no longer turn. With the VIN they were able to make a new one that fit the existing keys/other locks. Same thing when her key finally wore out.