Your BMW is a symbol of luxury, performance, and innovation. But even the finest machines can have their moments of trouble.
A frequently encountered problem for BMW owners is the key becoming trapped in the ignition. It can be frustrating and concerning, but fear not – we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will walk you through why a BMW key gets stuck in the ignition and the steps to resolve the issue.
Why Does Your BMW Key Get Stuck in the Ignition?
Here are the reasons why your BMW keys get stuck in the ignition;
Steering Wheel Lock
The steering wheel lock is a prevalent cause behind cars with a key becoming stuck. To release the key fob stuck in it, turn the steering wheel gently left and right while attempting to remove the key. It should free the key, and you can easily take it out.
Shift Lever Position
Another common maintenance issue is that the shift lever needs to be fully engaged in the Park position (automatic transmission) or the neutral position (manual transmission). Ensure the gear lever is securely in the designated place before removing the key.
Dead Battery
A weak or dead battery can also be the culprit for key stuck in ignition. When your battery is low on power, it may not allow the key to be removed. Jump-start the car or replace the battery to resolve this issue.
Damaged Key
If your key is damaged or worn out, it may not correctly engage or disengage the ignition cylinder. Consider getting a replacement key from your BMW dealership.
Ignition Cylinder Problems
Mechanical problems with the ignition cylinder can cause the key to getting the key stuck in ignition well. Seek professional help from a BMW service center to diagnose and repair the ignition cylinder.
Steps to Remove a Stuck Key from Your BMW Ignition
Here’s a link on how you can remove the key if key is stuck on in ignition key from the BMW ignition;
Steering Wheel Adjustment
As mentioned earlier, while attempting to remove the key, softly push, pull, push and wiggle the steering wheel in both directions.
Check the Gear Lever
Ensure the brake and the gear selector lever is positioned correctly – Park (automatic) or neutral (manual).
Battery Check
If the battery is the issue, jump-start your BMW or replace the battery.
Wiggle the Key
Gently wiggle and release the key while attempting to remove it. Avoid pulling with excessive force, which could damage the key or ignition cylinder.
Lubricate the Lock
Applying a small amount of graphite-based lock lubricant can help if the key is stuck due to a sticky or jammed lock.
Seek Professional Help
If none of the above steps work, it’s time to contact a BMW service center or a locksmith with experience in BMW vehicles.
What To Do If Your BMW Key Breaks In The Ignition
If your BMW key breaks in the ignition, it can be a frustrating and potentially challenging situation to deal with. Here are the steps you can follow to address this issue:
Turn Off the Engine: To avert potential damage or safety risks, switch off the vehicle, lights and engine if it’s still running promptly.
Retrieve the Broken Key: Carefully extract the broken key part from the ignition using a pair of needle-nose pliers or a similar tool. Be gentle and avoid pulling or using excessive force to prevent further damage to the ignition.
Inspect the Key: Examine the broken key and determine if it can be repaired or if you need a replacement key. In some cases, a locksmith or the car dealership may be able to fix the key or replace the key locked the broken portion.
Call for Assistance: Contact a professional locksmith, the BMW dealership, or a roadside assistance service. They can provide you with the necessary help to address the broken key issue.
Replace the Key: If the key is beyond repair, you’ll need to have a new key made. It typically involves visiting a BMW dealership or an authorized service center to obtain a replacement key.
Reprogram the Key (if necessary): If the dealer or new key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle’s immobilizer system, the dealership or a qualified locksmith can help you with this step.
Conclusion
A BMW key getting stuck in the ignition can be a frustrating experience, but it’s not the end of the world. By grasping the typical triggers and adhering to the maintenance procedures detailed in links on this page and blog post, you can effectively address the problem and return to savoring the unparalleled driving experience your BMW offers.
Your BMW deserves the best care. Invest in our key extraction service and regain control. Contact Same Day Locksmith 247 at (470) 412-9996. Drive worry-free today!
