A new ignition barrel should only cost about 60 from the main dealers, you may need a steering lock as well if you can't turn the ignition, I think it's around 60/70 as well new, probably pick one up second hand a good cheaper. Using a barrel and key from another car wont work as you'll have to change the ews module as well - it'll be just a whole lot easier if you can stick with your original key.

 

Cheers land

First time encountering this problem and my general knowledge when it comes to cars is 0 to none.

Just to clarify... you think it's easier to buy a new ignition barrel from the dealer and then a new steering lock from main dealer or 2nd hand either way. This is the easiest way to go about it? if I get a new ignition barrel i can still use my current key?

thanks for the help

 

Assuming the barrel is the same one that the car left the factory with, your new one should work perfectly with your key - you will have to supply your VIN no. to the dealership to order the correct barrel. Ring them up to get prices, I had to replace the barrel on mine a while back and it didn't break the bank.

The problem with the spinning barrel is a common one (google it!) and if you can get it to "catch" and turn the ignition to position I or II, you should be able to remove it from the steering lock assembly. (search youtube for videos of "e36 ignition barrel removal to get a better idea how to do it) If it's seized or is just spinning around, you won't be able to remove it from the steering lock and you will have to remove both together.

 

They are about 60 from the dealers and will take a few days to order one in to match your key

I have a good one thats only 2 years old with a key but you would need to swap your EWS chip over - PM me if interested

youtube has a DIY on fitting them using a paper clip

 

I had a similar problem and got the replaced the barrel with a new one from BMW. As a workaround while I was waiting for the new switch to be made I removed the ignition switch from the LHS of the steering column held in by 2 small grub screws. You can remove the switch from the column and use a large Philips screwdriver to turn the switch. You will need the key in the ignition though to disable the immobiliser.

 

BMW wanted 170 from me Inc labor and parts when this happened. We took mine completely apart the whole way down to the shaft and fixed it. Small spring and clip issue.Not an easy job mind but saved a good few euro. A good mechanic should be able to sort this

 

My mechanic unscrewed casing below and fixed exact same issue with a tiewrap in my drive in around 5 mins. made it look simple no harm in giving it a go you could probably see whats wrong once you get the casing off!