Xoutpost.com - Ignition Switch Replacement - Detailed Directions / Symptom was Dead Battery Issues

The original reason for changing out the ignition switch was due to a chronic dead battery issue. When it got colder than 30 (F) degrees, the vehicle’s battery went dead several mornings when we tried starting. After reading multiple posts on this site, as well as bimmer.roadfly.com (http://forums.roadfly.com/forums/bmw...8554332-1.html) I came to the conclusion that the chronic dead battery issue with my 2002 X5 was probably due to a bad ignition switch. Some other issues I had were specific to the dashboard in that none of the gauges were working (except speedometer) and the temperature gauge - which worked, but was in Celsius (default German setting).

A fellow forum member (“nikpottala”– again, many thanks) pointed me to a link on bimmer.roadfly.com (http://bimmer.roadfly.com/bmw/forums/e39/7519918-1.html) that was posted by Jim Cash and included directions to replace the ignition switch on a 5 series. Using this as the basis for my repair, the below detailed steps are the steps I used to replace the ignition switch on my 2002 X5. Please note, a ton of credit must be given to Jim Cash for his original post, which has been modified and provided below (specific to the X5). Please also note that I took a ton of pictures in an attempt to provide as much information as possible, therefore don’t be overwhelmed and think each picture represents a different step – I’m simply trying to provide as much detail as possible. It took about a 1 hour or so to complete the repair – and for what it’s worth, my mechanic abilities normally stop at changing the oil and wiper blades. As a side note, the verbal quote I received from BMW to repair the ignition switch (them providing both part and labor) was $423. I only say this because if I can do it, anyone can.

**Due to size constraints, attached is the detailed directions & photos.

-Best of luck