What do you mean BMW took it?

You don't register a battery on a 2002 (or any that I know of) e53.
So they have no idea obviously.

That said, I can't see what they could do to wreck everything during an airbag swap. They either disconnect the battery, swap the airbag, reconnect battery. Or replace airbag, reset airbag light.
Maybe an apprentice could stuff it up, and they would for sure cover that up.

Have you tried an independent mechanic? (I can't remember, it's been so long).

This is Australia... Our system doesn't work like that. He might be able to take them to "small claims" court, if he wants to waste a few more months.

For the last time, replace the ignition switch!

I hope you looked at the videos previously referenced. It shouldn't take more than 15 minutes. I wouldn't spend the money on an OE switch, though I wouldn't get the cheapest Fleabay switch either.

Good luck. Over and out.

The battery in our cars do not need to be "registered".

Well ok! I guess I have nothing else left to try. Can anyone else vouch that this is worth trying? Would delay me 2 weeks (waiting delivery) and $50.... Worth it?

Is there any way to test the existing ignition switch?

Did you allow BMW to do the diagnostics?

Several have suggested the problem is likely the ignition switch and how to troubleshoot to confirm. I don't think you have confirmed it is the switch but that's your call. If you purchase an ignition switch purchase an OE or OEM switch not any aftermarket version.

I've been following and if one of the symptoms is occasional non starts then I would myself change out the ignition switch


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I've never had a non-starting issue.

When the car wouldn't start, it was due to the flat battery....

If I go to my local indy- are they likely to spend a lot of time trouble shooting stuff I've already done?

A good indy will have a troubleshooting procedure that they will begin at step one. What you have done may be helpful and might their procedure but don't bet on it.

If you tried when everyone said to try, you would have it by now, and we might not be still in this thread...

What's cheaper, $50 for a switch, or a mechanic?

In other words, what do you have to lose at this stage?

Still so much missing info. Did BMW "take it"? What did they do? Was any diagnostic done? Do you have a copy?