Firstfives.org

My 528i is my daily driver for the past 5 years, no issues to speak of.

Today, it got stranded at a shopping center. The key won't turn the ignition lock. I've tried pulling on the wheel in both directions, jiggling it... nothing is helping.

Any idea how to get the ignition lock out of the column? I've got the bottom off and removed the lock "retainer" (13mm bolt directly beneath lock cylinder)

I got it out, removed tumbler, reinstalled and was able to drive the car home. New tumbler is $35.

Straightforward. No tricks. Use common sense.