DIY - How to replace ignition key lock cylinder

I've written this DIY for replacing the ignition key lock cylinder. See the attached pdf.

Just what I needed. Key wouldn't turn after insertion.

Was a little tricky getting the old one out, but this DIY was right on the money. (course I appear to have forgetten to put the O-ring back on....ugh !!)

Thank you scott0356 for taking the time to help show how to do the job of removing and replacement of the cylinder.

Thank you. This sounds right to me. I need to check a couple of other things but this must be it. The cylinder spins sometimes before engaging and allowing me to start the car. What happened is I turned the key to the off position and pulled it out, like normal, but the engine kept running. When I put the key back it, I could not turn it either way. I had to stall the engine to turn it off. Now, since the key won't turn, I can't start it. Its also nice to know that you can get the switch made to match your existing keys. I suspect I should get new keys too as mine look a bit worn. I wonder if minute metal shaving, dust, from my key have worn down the switch over the years ... probably. Thanks again. This was awesome!!

I have this issue (sometimes need to jingle the key in ignition to start) as well as requires jiggling at the door to lock - turning forward to unlock works normal but it will NOT turn backwards to lock as easy...sometimes takes a few mins to lock! My son got smart and started locking from trunk and I followed and NOW after a couple of times of doing that, the trunk appears to no longer lock the vehicle!! 1997 528i w/a badly worn key fob but I noticed playing around w/the buttons that w/key turned forward and pressing one of the buttons, all the windows and sunroof open!! Don't know the sequence to get the fob to close everything back up. So that tells me the fob is partially alive and I just need?? A new cosmetic fob case and the guts are fine?? With a new fob and my old guts, I'll be able to use the lock/unlock buttons??

the first issue is do I need an ignition switch (from dealer) to eliminate the jingle to turn on car and will this fix the door locking issue? Or is the door locking a separate issue

The next issue is the key fob...do I just require a new case to switch out my old worn one??

thx. v/r -g

Well I've ordered/received my ignition "switch" and decided to do another look thru before installing. I'm now questioning whether I need the key lock cylinder or the actual ignition switch?? I don't have the sporadic issues reported (sun-visor raises/lowers steering wheel etc) but do at times have to jingle key to get it to turn to starting position. I had searched and read concluding the switch was the culprit but I'm not so sure now. Any suggestions?? Cylinder or Switch?? Or, just change the switch now since I have already and do the same procedure (slight diff) to change the cylinder....