# Steering column / Ignition lock, replace.

This procedure is not for replacing the ignition lock cylinder, where the key goes.

Disconnect negative lead from battery

Remove steering wheel |
Remove 4 screws securing lower steering column casing |  |
Remove two screws from each side of column, these are for the wiper and turn signal switches. The cruise switch, if fitted, is also retained by the lower right screw. |
Remove spacer from column, remove circlip, washer, spring and ring from below spacer.
Gently pry out the bearing from around the column with a couple of flat screwdrivers.
Disconnect the various wiring connectors attached to the column
Use a hammer and chisel to remove the shear bolt from the lower section of the lock housing. |
With the housing removed, apply pressure to the locking tabs and remove the ignition switch from the rear of the cylinder housing. |
Slide the housing off the column tube
Models before 87 production have a slot in the side of the housing for access to the locking pin of the cylinder. Turn the key to the locked position and press this pin, the cylinder should slide right out.
87 and later versions require the key to be turned approximately 60° from the locked position and insertion of a wire approximately 1.2mm into the hole beside the key. A paper clip works well. You may also find it easier to put a bend of about 10° in the end of the wire, insert the wire with the bend facing the outside of the housing, once fully inserted, rotate the wire until the bend is facing the key hole and slide out the housing.

### Installation

Drill out the rivets securing the horn contact and rivet it to the new housing.

Install a new shear bolt and tighten until head breaks off.

Ensure correct order of spring parts on column. The stepped ring faces flat side up, followed by the spring, flat washer and circlip.

Collar must sit so that machined groove covers snap ring.

### Torques

Steering wheel : 80 Nm (58 ft lbs.)

E30 M3 Repair Manual V2.7. Copyright ©1999-2001 Koala Motorsport & Brett Anderson