BMW 325is key cylinder removal issue preventing vehicle start on BMW 325is

Some BMW 325i owners report experiencing issues with the key cylinder that prevent their vehicle from starting, including a shaft shearing off, which cannot be resolved by merely replacing the key cylinder. To address this problem, some have had to remove the key cylinder, drill out a pin holding the shaft in place, and pull it out. Additionally, if the ignition lock mechanism is broken internally and does not release even when a stiff wire is inserted, it can lead to difficulties in starting the vehicle. In some cases, owners find that the key gets stuck in the ignition, causing the cylinder to spin before engaging, which may result in the engine continuing to run even after the key is turned off. Techniques such as jiggling the key while pushing down on the key cylinder may help loosen the internal springs and pins, allowing the key to slide out. It is crucial for owners to address these issues promptly to ensure the proper functionality and safe operation of their BMW 325i.