E46 steering lock stuck

[Daren]

The steering lock on my 330 will not release, anybody have advice - if I sit and wiggle the key for about half an hour it unlocks. Do I have to replace the whole ignition or just the worn out parts?

 

[Legacy]

Take off the steering wheel, take out the lock mechanism and see what wrong with it. Its like a little plastic thing, not really very security but anyway.

 

[Sankekur]

Just remember to disconnect the battery before removing the steering wheel, else you will have to reset the airbag warning light as removing the steering wheel requires removing the airbag.

 

[Daren]

Could it be the ignition itself?

 

[Solo Man]

Daren, it is most probably the ignition barrel that is jammed. Had the problem on my E39 528i (1998 model) and the Lock 'n Key guy came out and fixed it for me. If you can still drive the car, take it to a locksmith to have a look and save a few buck on the call-out fee

 

[Daren]

Daren, it is most probably the ignition barrel that is jammed. Had the problem on my E39 528i (1998 model) and the Lock 'n Key guy came out and fixed it for me. If you can still drive the car, take it to a locksmith to have a look and save a few buck on the call-out fee

Thanks Solo Man
Found the problem,I removed the "tumbler" contacted the dealer and was quoted R850, I had someone come and look. The guy I spoke to at the dealer said I can bring it and they will verify. Unfortunately the car cannot drive as the key will not turn.