The common issue of BMW E90 keys getting stuck in the ignition is an annoying problem that can be easily fixed if you know what you’re doing.
It’s important to understand why this happens so you can avoid it happening again in the future.
In this article, I’ll explain how and why your BMW E90 key is stuck in the ignition, as well as provide advice on how to fix it yourself or when you should call a professional for help.
So let’s get started!
Contents
Causes of BMW E90 Key Stuck in Ignition
It is not uncommon that a key can get stuck in the ignition of a BMW E90.
While this issue can be incredibly frustrating, I have learned from my years of experience dealing with car ignition and key issues that it’s usually caused by several reasons.
I have mentioned those reasons so you can easily identify when your key gets stuck in the ignition.
Cause | Description | Solution |
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1. Dead battery |
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2. Faulty key cylinder |
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3. Jammed steering wheel |
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4. Faulty shift interlock |
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5. Foreign objects in the key cylinder |
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6. Faulty park/neutral safety switch |
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How To Fix A Key Stuck In The BMW E90 Ignition
Once you have understood the cause of the key sticking in the ignition of your BMW E90 and the solutions to get it unstuck, the next step is to learn how to carry out the solution according to the specific issue.
I have explained step by step guide to perform the different tasks given as solutions.
1. Steps to Change Battery in BMW E90
Changing the battery of a car is not everyone’s cup of tea.
It is a technical task that requires proper and comprehensive directions in order to be done correctly.
Here are the steps to change the battery of a BMW E90:
Step | Description |
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1. Locate the Battery Compartment |
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2. Remove the Negative Cable |
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3. Remove the Positive Cable |
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4. Remove Retaining Hardware |
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5. Clean the Battery Compartment |
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6. Insert the New Battery |
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7. Retain with Hardware |
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8. Attach Positive Cable |
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9. Attach Negative Cable |
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10. Double-Check |
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2. Steps to Replace the Key Cylinder of BMW E90
Replacing the key cylinder in a BMW E90 involves several steps. By carefully following the instructions, you can perform the task.
Here is a general guide on how to do it:
Steps | Details |
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1. Disconnect the Battery |
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2. Remove the Steering Wheel |
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3. Remove the Airbag |
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4. Remove the Clock Spring |
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5. Remove the Old Key Cylinder |
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6. Install the New Key Cylinder |
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7. Reassemble the Clockspring, Airbag, and Steering wheel |
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8. Reconnect the Battery |
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3. Steps to Change Faulty Shift Interlock of BMW E90
Just as I have mentioned previously the steps to perform the task required to fix the key stuck in the ignition of a BMW E90, this table shows you another set of guidelines.
Here are the general steps for changing a faulty shift interlock in a BMW E90:
Step | Description |
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1. Disconnect the battery |
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2. Remove the center console |
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3. Remove the shift knob |
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4. Remove the shift boot |
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5. Remove the shift interlock mechanism |
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6. Install the new shift interlock mechanism |
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7. Reassemble the shift boot and shift knob |
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8. Reassemble the center console |
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9. Reconnect the battery |
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4. Steps to Remove Foreign Objects from BMW E90 Key Cylinder
If a foreign object gets stuck inside the key cylinder of your BMW E90, it can prevent you from inserting or removing your key.
You have to follow the steps to remove foreign objects from the key cylinder:
Steps | Description |
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1. Inspect the key cylinder |
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2. Try to remove the foreign object |
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3. Use compressed air |
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4. Use a lubricant |
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5. Test the key cylinder |
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Explore More:
- Troubleshooting 2011 BMW 328i Key Stuck In Ignition – 7 Causes & Their Solutions
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4. Steps to Replace Park Safety Switch in BMW E90
So replacing the park safety switch in BMW E90 also requires a careful and step-by-step guide for you to change it accurately.
In the following table I have mentioned the steps to do so:
Step | Description |
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1. Park the vehicle |
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2. Locate the park safety switch |
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3. Disconnect the battery |
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4. Remove the park safety switch |
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5. Install the new park safety switch |
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6. Reconnect the battery |
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7. Replace the undercarriage panel |
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Professional Assistance
If all the above-mentioned tips and their mechanism does not work and you find yourself stuck, it is time you need professional assistance.
Moreover, if it is difficult for you to perform any of the replacing mechanisms then that is also the time to seek the help of an expert dealing with keys stuck in the ignition.
Tips to Prevent the Key From Getting Stuck Again
It’s all too easy for a key to get stuck in the ignition, especially if you don’t take preventive maintenance seriously.
There are steps you can take to ensure that this issue doesn’t occur again and your car stays running smoothly.
Here is a list of tips:
Maintenance Tips | Description |
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1. Regular electrical system inspections |
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2. Insert the key slowly and gently |
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3. Lubricate locks and hinges |
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4. Regular ignition servicing |
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Conclusion
In conclusion, getting a key stuck in the ignition of your BMW E90 can be frustrating, but there are several tips and tricks you can try to get it unstuck.
The first step is to remain calm and avoid forcing the key, which can cause more damage to the ignition cylinder.
You can try wiggling the key gently or lubricating the ignition cylinder to loosen any debris or debris buildup.
If these methods don’t work, you may need to call a professional locksmith or mechanic to help you remove the key safely.
It’s important to take care of any issues with your BMW E90’s ignition system promptly to avoid further problems and ensure the safety of your vehicle.
With these tips and tricks, you can successfully remove a stuck key from your BMW E90 ignition and get back on the road.