Ignition switch or barrel problem-advice please.

[Johnwindwood]

Guys
Occasionally since we bought the Z3, on going to start the car, they key would revolve freely without activating anything. Trying again it worked fine. This was very occasional.
Today, went to start it, the key turned to position 2 and then span freely. Now although I can insert the key normally, it won't turn. The ignition is stuck on position 2 so I had to disconnect the battery.
Any ideas of cause? It's obviously the barrel or the ignition switch but I'm unsure which-or if there is an easy way to sort it?
All help appreciated!

 

[jonco]

If you google spinning lock Z3 you will find a number of You tube videos explaining problem and how to remove lock, barrel or switch. I'll try and find you some links. Your symptoms sound like lock or barrel not actual switch. Mine does this on occasions, and I manage to reset/re-engage it by removing switch and turning barrel shaft. See pics

 

[Johnwindwood]

If you google spinning lock Z3 you will find a number of You tube videos explaining problem and how to remove lock, barrel or switch. I'll try and find you some links. Your symptoms sound like lock or barrel not actual switch. Mine does this on occasions, and I manage to reset/re-engage it by removing switch and turning barrel shaft. See pics View attachment 144291View attachment 144285

Many thanks- bang on advice! Removed ignition switch, turned shaft and all back to normal!

 

[jonco]

Many thanks- bang on advice! Removed ignition switch, turned shaft and all back to normal!

Well done - unfortunately no guarantee it will not happen again. May be worth extracting ignition lock and checking for any wear or swarf in the barrel. Pics show barrel with lock removed.