It’s a common issue for many drivers to have their 2007 BMW key stuck in the ignition, causing frustration and delays. However, before taking it to a mechanic, there are some things you can try yourself.
In this article, I will provide you with helpful tips to resolve the issue if you’re facing the same problem with your 2007 BMW key.
By the end of this article, you will be able to get your key out of the ignition and back on the road in no time. So, let’s get started!
Contents
2 Causes Of 2007 BMW Key Stuck In Ignition
When a key is stuck in the ignition, it can be extremely frustrating. It may seem like there’s no solution to get the key out and that you’ll have to take your car to a mechanic for help.
But before giving up on your ability to solve the problem, I suggest considering what could be causing it.
In most cases, a stuck key will occur due to either an issue with a faulty ignition switch or a worn-out key.
1. Faulty Ignition Switch:
The purpose of an ignition switch is to start and stop a vehicle’s engine. Here is the breakdown of the purpose and functionality of an ignition switch in a table format:
| Step | Action | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Insert the key into the ignition and turn it. | An Electrical signal is sent to the starter motor. The engine starts running. |
| 2 | The ignition switch remains in the “on” position. | Power is provided to the electrical systems such as lights, radio, etc. |
| 3 | The vehicle’s computer detects the key presence. | The ignition switch enables the fuel injectors and other engine components. |
| 4 | Turn the key back to the “off” position. | The electrical power is cut off and the engine shuts down. |
When this part of your vehicle isn’t working properly, it can cause issues with turning the engine on and off—including getting the keys stuck.
2. Worn-Down Key:
A worn-down key is also possible; if its edges are too smooth, they won’t fit correctly into your locks anymore. Either way, these two main causes of a stuck key should be considered when troubleshooting.
Solutions:
To test whether either of these problems is at play, try wiggling or jiggling the steering wheel while attempting to turn off or restart your ignition several times.
If this doesn’t work after several tries and nothing else seems to make sense, then you might need professional assistance from someone who specializes in diagnosing car ignition systems.
3 Quick Fixes to 2007 BMW Key Stuck In Ignition
Having a 2007 BMW key stuck in the ignition can be incredibly frustrating; however, it’s an issue I have seen many times over my years as an expert.
Don’t worry though – there are several solutions you can try:
1. Check the Car Battery:
One possible cause could be a dead or weak battery. The battery in your car is responsible for providing power to the electrical system, which includes the ignition. If the battery is not able to provide enough power, it could result in issues with the key getting stuck in the ignition.
To resolve this issue, you should check your BMW battery to ensure that it is fully charged and functioning properly. You can use a voltmeter to measure the voltage across the battery terminals. A fully charged battery should have a voltage reading of around 12.6 volts. If the reading is lower than this, it may indicate that the battery is weak and needs to be charged or replaced.
Additionally, you may want to check the battery terminals and cables for any signs of corrosion or damage. Corrosion can prevent the battery from making a proper connection, which can also result in issues with the key getting stuck in the ignition.
By ensuring that your BMW’s battery is fully charged and functioning properly, you can potentially resolve the issue of the key getting stuck in the ignition.
2. Check the Shift Lever:
Sometimes, the shift lever of your 2007 BMW can become stuck in the “park” position, which can prevent the key from being removed.
To check the shift lever, ensure it is properly engaged in the “park” position. You can do this by pressing down on the brake pedal and attempting to move the shift lever out of “park”. If the lever is difficult to move, you may need to wiggle it back and forth or apply some force to disengage it from the “park” position.
Once you have successfully moved the shift lever out of “park”, the key should be able to be removed from the ignition. If this does not work, there may be another underlying issue that needs to be addressed by a qualified mechanic.
3. Lubricate the Lock Cylinder:
Over time, the lock cylinder can become clogged with dirt and debris, making it difficult for the key to move in and out smoothly. This can result in the key getting stuck in the ignition.
To resolve this issue, you can try lubricating the lock cylinder with a small amount of graphite lubricant. Graphite lubricant is a dry lubricant that is specifically designed for use with lock cylinders. It can help to reduce friction and allow the key to move in and out of the ignition more smoothly.
Tips on How to Apply Lubricant:
Here are some tips on how to apply lubricant to a key that is stuck in the ignition:
| Step | Procedure | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Get the right lubricant | The best lubricant to use for a key that is stuck in the ignition of a BMW 2007 is graphite powder or spray. You can purchase these lubricants from an auto parts store or online. |
| 2 | Insert the lubricant into the ignition | If you’re using graphite powder, insert the nozzle of the graphite powder container into the keyhole. If you’re using graphite spray, insert the straw that comes with the can into the keyhole. |
| 3 | Apply the lubricant | Squeeze the powder directly into the ignition if using graphite powder, or spray a small amount of graphite into the ignition if using graphite spray. |
| 4 | Turn the key | After applying the lubricant, try to turn the key gently back and forth. Do not apply too much force, as this could damage the lock. If the key doesn’t turn, try gently wiggling the key back and forth while applying light pressure. This can help the lubricant penetrate deeper into the lock. |
| 5 | Repeat the process | If the key still won’t turn, repeat the lubrication process a few more times, waiting a few minutes between each attempt. Over time, the lubricant should penetrate deeper into the lock and loosen any debris that may be preventing the key from turning. |
Consult a Professional Mechanic if Nothing Works
It is important to note that attempting any of these alternate solutions without first consulting a professional could cause further damage, so make sure you research thoroughly before trying anything yourself!
Ignition repairs should always be done by qualified professionals with experience specifically in repairing BMW vehicles, so seek out someone who knows what they are doing and won’t risk making matters worse for you in the long run
There are some steps that an experienced car mechanic may take when faced with this problem:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Diagnose the causes | A car mechanic will assess the situation to determine whether the issue is with the lock cylinder or the ignition switch. |
| Repair parts if necessary | If any components need to be replaced, such as a faulty ignition switch, the technician will use quality BMW OEM parts to ensure optimal performance. |
| Lubricate moving parts | The technician may use lubricant on any movable parts to ensure everything works smoothly without further issues. |
If you are not able to identify and resolve the issue yourself, having a qualified car mechanic handle your jammed BMW key is essential for safely returning to the road.
Not only can they ensure that all necessary repairs are done correctly. But also provide valuable advice about how to prevent similar problems from occurring again in the future.
Preventative Maintenances
When it comes to preventing car keys from being stuck in ignition issues, regular servicing and checkups are a must.
A car Ignition expert with years of experience will tell you that prevention is always better than cure – avoiding costly repairs down the road by taking proactive steps today.
To make sure your car stays in tip-top condition, let’s take a look at some preventive maintenance measures:
| No. | Maintenance Tips |
|---|---|
| 1 | Keep your car clean: |
| Dirt and debris can accumulate in and around the keyhole, which can cause problems with the ignition. Regularly cleaning your car, including the keyhole, can help prevent this issue. | |
| 2 | Use the right key: |
| Make sure you’re using the correct key for your car. Using the wrong key can cause damage to the ignition and make it difficult to start your car. | |
| 3 | Lubricate the lock: |
| Use graphite powder or spray to lubricate the lock periodically. This can help prevent debris buildup and make it easier to turn the key. | |
| 4 | Avoid extreme temperatures: |
| Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect the performance of your car’s ignition. Try to park your car in a garage or undercover to protect it from extreme weather conditions. | |
| 5 | Check the battery: |
| A weak or dead battery can cause problems with the ignition system. Regularly check the battery and replace it as needed. | |
| 6 | Get regular maintenance and tune-ups: |
| Regular maintenance can help identify and fix any issues before they become major problems. Take your BMW 2007 to a certified mechanic for regular maintenance and tune-ups. |
Conclusion
It’s never fun when your BMW key gets stuck in the ignition. But with a few simple steps, you can fix this issue yourself and save time and money.
And to ensure it doesn’t happen again, don’t forget to practice preventative maintenance on your car’s ignition system!
So remember: if your BMW key is stuck in the ignition, take a deep breath—you got this! With patience and knowledge of the proper techniques for removing the key and maintaining your vehicle’s ignition system, you will soon return to the road again.
