Service reset / Igntion switch problemns

[timboe53]

Hey there,

Trying to reset my service interval in my 3.0i E53 after an oil and filter change. I go through the procedure of holding down the left dash button and switching ignition to position 1, but it lights up like its in position 2. I switch to position 2 and it stays the same.

Also when the car is running and I switch it off, switching it from position 3 (running) to position 2 does nothing. Car still running. I then switch it to position 1, which turns the engine off but still has all accessories running.

Could this be an ignition switch problem? Or some other electrical problem?

Cheers

[wpoll]

Sounds like he ignition switch has handed in it's knife and fork.... They aren't terribly expensive or hard to replace. There's an electrical switch module on the rear of the key tumbler section - just replace that.

[timboe53]

I have ordered one and will put it in next week. I'll post the result.

[timboe53]

update - put the new switch in and still the same problem. could it be the key tumbler?

[wpoll]

Originally Posted by timboe53

update - put the new switch in and still the same problem. could it be the key tumbler?

Well stink...

Not likely to be the tumbler part - they usually jam up and you cannot turn the key (or remove it).

The only other thing that comes to mind is the cast "pot-metal" mechanism between the actual key "tumbler" and the electrical switch section has cracked or fractured...

Did you test the tumbler section with no electrical switch section attached to the back - could you see the mechanism rotate as the key is rotated?

[timboe53]

Hmm no I did not check that. I'll take it apart again and check that.

[timboe53]

ok. so this is now fixed but I don't know how. I had to disconnect the battery for a different reason and once reconnected I had my ignition position 1 back. Not sure how that fixed it but job done.

[wpoll]

Originally Posted by timboe53

ok. so this is now fixed but I don't know how. I had to disconnect the battery for a different reason and once reconnected I had my ignition position 1 back. Not sure how that fixed it but job done.

Sweet - but odd. Wonder what was up?