Ignition switch does not work?

When I turn the key on, everything lights up. Turning it farther to start the engine there is nothing, no response. I have not replaced the ignition switch.... yet!

When you turn to start do you notice all lights on the dash go off?

Q. When you turn to start do you notice all lights on the dash go off? A. Everything works electrically except the starter. It is dead, no response from the start mode on the switch. Everything else stays on and is fine. Replace the ignition switch?

Check the starter relay first. Most vehicles stop power to everything while cranking the starter, apparently the 5 series does not. The starter relay should click when the key is turned to start, and if it doesn't you won't hear any clicking starter solenoid, no starter turning, etc. The ignition switch can cause the same symptoms, so you will need to test it by using a multi-meter to test where the relay plugs into the fuse block. Just put the multi-meter across the ignition circuit where the relay plugs in, turn key to start, see if you get voltage. If you do, test the relay. If the relay is good, have the starter and starter solenoid tested and examine the starter cable as well.

Thank you for your help. I checked the engine fuse box, no ignition relay. It is not mentioned on the fuse box list either. I checked the driver side kick panel, only a speaker there. So I checked Pelican Parts , no mention of a starter relay for a 1995 525i, E34, 2.5L M20. The only listing was for a ignition modules wiring harness minus the ignition tumbler/ keys.

Look behind the kick panel in the driver side footwell.