Broken ignition switch, or Mark's chip?

[kjbcpa]

1990 525 automatic:
Ignition switch turns just enough to release steering lock, but no further. Not even to position 1. Am I correct that this is some sort of mechanical interlock problem? What is involved? (I tried wiggling the key, the steering wheel, and the shifter in every conceivable combination)

Of course it doesn't look good to my wife that this happened on the very first outing after installing new EAT chip (45 miles away)(she had to come get me)(car is being towed back in). She wasn't convinced I needed a chip in the first place and now she thinks the poor car shut down because it must be feeling violated with a new chip inside!

Any and all confirmations that the new chip has nothing to do with the ignition switch will also be much appreciated. Thanks for any help.

[jplacson]

It does sound like a mechanical problem. Although I'm not sure if this helps but, on older MB automatics, they have something called a "neutral safety switch" which causes the EXACT same symptoms as yours. Basically what happens is that the shifter sensor thinks it's still in drive (even if the transmission isn't) and prevents the car from starting. The ignition locks out as well.

I don't know if 'matic Bimmers have this as well, but it might be worth a shot.

Another test, is to try to reinstall your old chip... maybe your mate is right!

[MarkD]

1990 525 automatic:
Ignition switch turns just enough to release steering lock, but no further. Not even to position 1. Am I correct that this is some sort of mechanical interlock problem? What is involved? (I tried wiggling the key, the steering wheel, and the shifter in every conceivable combination)

Of course it doesn't look good to my wife that this happened on the very first outing after installing new EAT chip (45 miles away)(she had to come get me)(car is being towed back in). She wasn't convinced I needed a chip in the first place and now she thinks the poor car shut down because it must be feeling violated with a new chip inside!

Any and all confirmations that the new chip has nothing to do with the ignition switch will also be much appreciated. Thanks for any help.

Hi Ken,

sorry to hear about the problem with the ignition switch. This can not be caused by the chip, but the chip can cause tires to wear faster than usual.

How was it for those 45 miles?

Mark

[winfred]

the steering lock/ignition switch is broken internally

[Unregistered]

It never ceases to amaze me over the general level of stupidity of some people - the key doesnt turn properly.... - how could this possibly be related to an engine management chip upgrade.

other people asking wheres the fuse box...its a car - its hardly the Taj Mahal - take a look around...wheres the battery....lord its a miracle it doesnt need one...oh its there under the seat...

[Black 535i]

What a dickhead? Do you know all about everything?

[632 Regal]

It never ceases to amaze me over the general level of stupidity of some people - the key doesnt turn properly.... - how could this possibly be related to an engine management chip upgrade.

other people asking wheres the fuse box...its a car - its hardly the Taj Mahal - take a look around...wheres the battery....lord its a miracle it doesnt need one...oh its there under the seat...

[kjbcpa]

Y'all are getting way too serious. I know its pure chance and not the chip. She maybe doesn't know, but that's my responsibility and she will ultimately trust my judgement. Just my lame attempt at humor.

The basic question, maybe, is this a common problem? In the last twelve months I've spent many $$$ to avoid problems on the road, including Level II service, transmission service, motor mounts, most front end parts, struts, radiator, water pump, T'stat, hoses, belts, starter, etc. Who would have thought broken ignition switch?

I used to do my own mechanical work but now I pay to have the work done. I personally prefer to spend my non-office time renovating the house and playing with my seven year old son. I respect and admire those who do their own repairs.

Just as a reader, this board has been immensely helpful in understanding my car and knowing what can and will go wrong at 145,000 miles and linking to other sources of information. I usually understand what you guys are talking about (except maybe clutch plates in automatic transmissions (grin)).

I love driving the car and don't mind spending $$$. Especially to avoid trouble on the road. Yesterday's trip back on the tow truck was disappointing (especially since it just had another trip last month when the radiator blew). I really don't want it to get too comfortable being carried around (grin).

The coincidence is a bitch, but I know Mark's chip cannot possibly be the cause. As for the chip, you guys are right. It seems to have removed the "sluggish" feel to this car. As soon as the ignition switch is fixed I look forward to many more years of enjoyable driving. And hopefully, no more tow trucks! Thank you, frequent posters and generous sources of great knowledge. I would gladly reciprocate if you should have some complicated, late night, income tax questions.

[TheGeak]

All Hail the bimmer god!! Bow before the Unregistered Guest who knows more than EVERYONE IN THE WORLD!!!

*bows deeply before ending his sarcastic rant*

[Warren N.CA]

And your wife should be ashamed of herself, and you should be ashamed of yourself for listening to her. I suggest you punish her by requiring her to do all future oil changes!

1990 525 automatic:
Ignition switch turns just enough to release steering lock, but no further. Not even to position 1. Am I correct that this is some sort of mechanical interlock problem? What is involved? (I tried wiggling the key, the steering wheel, and the shifter in every conceivable combination)

Of course it doesn't look good to my wife that this happened on the very first outing after installing new EAT chip (45 miles away)(she had to come get me)(car is being towed back in). She wasn't convinced I needed a chip in the first place and now she thinks the poor car shut down because it must be feeling violated with a new chip inside!

Any and all confirmations that the new chip has nothing to do with the ignition switch will also be much appreciated. Thanks for any help.