How do I remove ignition lock cylinder?

I was out at a storage unit today and turned off the car to pay my bill. When I got back in, the ignition turns 1/4 around but nothing happens. Column is locked and no power. Windows down and sunroof open so I rented a unit to stick the car in until I can figure this out! You wouldn't believe what I had to go through to get it in there with trans and wheel locked!
Anyone have an idea where to start with the ignition switch problem? From what I read, it's probably the lock cylinder but not sure. If so, any tips on how to remove? I have a 1995 525i Touring if that helps. Thanks in advance for any advice!

I decided to try and fix my problem yesterday and took the column covers off. I removed the ignition switch so I could at least het the top and windows up. I see no way to take the lock cylinder off and since I couldn't figure out how to get that apart and no help online, it's getting AAA towed to the dealership today. Hopefully it won't be a huge bill to get that fixed!

Hi. I had the same problem with my 316i Compact, at around 145K. It needed the barrel replacing as they need to break the steering colum to get the barrel out, a good feature as it stops the car getting nicked. anyway the repair ended up costing me around 250GBP for the colum and barrel.
I see you have the car at the dealers now but I was able to hot wire mine as it broke with the ignition stuck on, I just had to disconnect the battery each time i stopped.

If you turn the ignition to the accessory position, you should be able to see a tiny hole at the end of the ignition cylinder. Push a piece of stiff wire into the hole. That should release the cylinder and it should slide right out.

what if when u push the wire in and u hit the thing and it still doesnt come out???

Practice on your new lock cylinder. I literally just did mine (this morning). It took about 3 minutes of jimmying the "key" and it popped right out. Get a sense for where the car key needs to be for the catch to go down with the practice.

Faze has it right. I just replaced my ignition cylinder and used a small allen wrench to pop out the cylinder. It took some practice, but it's doable.

The main part on the steering column is bolted in with shear bolts. They break off when tightened enough. You can use a small chisel and hammer to remove the bolts and replace the ignition with a new one. You may or may not be able to usse your old cylinder, depending on if it's damaged.

Don't order the key with the cylinder, just the cylinder itself per your VIN. My local dealer wanted to charge my $29 for a plain steel key, so I used my old one and had copies made for $2.50 each.

i have did all of that, and still cant get it out?on my 93'bmw 318is. i dont understand how to pop it out? i need more details please.