1998 BMW 740 ignition/stearing column

1998 BMW 740
170,000 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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EXPANDEDVISION
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The key turned and it started but the steering would not unlock so i shut it off and tried again and now my key will turn to the accessory setting but no further it will not turn to the ignition/start position. If i dont hold it in that position the key turns back to the off position on its own. I am able to move the shifter if i hold the key forword but the steering remains locked. I locked and unlocked the car thinking it may be the factory alarm no luck. Also it is below freezing here lately. Any advice would be nice.
Dec 10, 2009 at 5:45 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
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The steering lock sounds broken and may well require replacement. Do you have a BMW tech on hand?
Dec 12, 2009 at 1:47 AM
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EXPANDEDVISION
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No tach hear i live on an island closest BMW dealership is abour 75 miles. I spoke to a tech he said i have to chisle the rivets of the igntion switch and replace it.
Dec 15, 2009 at 1:53 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
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Keep in touch with them, they seem to know what to do.
Dec 19, 2009 at 1:54 AM
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EXPANDEDVISION
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Ok i have the new ignition interlock. The part where the ket goes. I was told at the dealership to push a pin in the hole next to the key slot and the assembly would come out. I have not been able to get it out. Is there a trick or a step i need. Maybe i need to twist and pull or something. Im getting close here. Please help.
Dec 23, 2009 at 3:32 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,606 POSTS
32 3 110 is the tool part number. It is a piece of stiff wire about 50-60mm long, with a handle, so you can turn it, with a slight kink in the last 10mm of its length. The idea is to insert this tool in the little pinhole when the key is turned about 90° and then turn the tool to retract the "tooth" that sticks out to hold the lock cylinder in. When you do it right, it comes out a lot quicker than the time it took me to type this.
Dec 23, 2009 at 3:48 PM
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