BMW X5 e53 Key Won't Go into Ignition, Steering Wheel Won't Lock

[Auto Parts Guy]

I couldn't find much on the web, but basically the steering wheel isn't locking, therefore the key won't go into the Ignition. Even wiggling the ignition and turning the wheel back and forth. Any idea what's causing this? Hope I don't have to replace the lock solenoid..

Happens on flat ground, no binds, with all 3 keys and the valet key. 2006 X5 3.0i.

[80stech]

The shifter is also interlinked with that so maybe check that.

[Auto Parts Guy]

Yeah I also wiggled the shifter, went from P to N back the P several times, no issues with it, seems to function normally. Brake light switch also works.

[andrewwynn]

Locking is not supposed to happen unless you try to steer the wheel after taking out the key. If you managed to get something out of order that it works backwards I'm afraid you will have to get it apart to discover what lever came out of its slide that interconnects the key cylinder with the wheel lock


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[andrewwynn]

Thinking into the situation closer it sounds like you got the key out while it thinks the key is in. I would try to use a screw driver and without a crazy amount of force try try turn the lock cylinder CCW.

I've noticed that I can't turn the ignition back to on without removing the key so there is some complicated interlock. See if it just needs to be properly reset like you didn't turn it all the way to zero before removing the key


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[Auto Parts Guy]

I have tried everything. It seems like the steering wheel lock just isnt working like it should. I have been locked out (can't get the key in the ignition) 3 times now. When the wheel locks like it should, key goes right in.

I need a work-around or something. Any ideas? Leaving a key in the ignition sucks, the doors won't lock with the fob then. And someone could easily steal it..

[80stech]

Sounds like the lock pin (or whatever it is that locks) might be bent or sticking. Might be an easy fix.

[andrewwynn]

You need to disassemble the lock mechanism.

Were it me unless the part is cheap to replace I'd likely reengineer to remove the locking mechanism. EWS is far more effective anti theft mechanics. That said it might be a pretty easy fix to find out what pin is bent inside.

Search YouTube for rebuild BMW ignition lock cylinder and similar.

Maybe it's similar inside to the door cylinder and can be just rebuilt using some 3rd party parts or junk yard parts. (rebuilt vs. replaced so you don't need to re-key).

I did similar on my dad's Buick rendezvous

[Auto Parts Guy]

https://youtu.be/rpXy624KxYs

There's a video of the symptom. I don't see much to do that's very easy after taking the cover panels off. Looks like I may need to remove the column.. That sucks. Not what I wanted to do.

[80stech]

You should get pretty good access taking off the steering wheel and top/bottom covers?? It's been a while since I had that all apart but I don't remember it being that difficult, I doubt you would need to pull the column.