DIY: BMW E39 Ignition Switch Refurbishment
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- Опубліковано 19 сер 2024
- Video tutorial on how to refurbish the BMW E39 ignition switch. This ignition switch is also found on a BMW E38 as well, but this maybe a similar procedure on other BMW models. This tutorial is intended to rebuild the existing ignition switch rather than purchasing a new or used one. A new replacement can be somewhat expensive and a used ignition switch may also have issues. Be sure to test the switch before putting it back into place as this ensure everything is working correctly. This particular tutorial was done on a 1997 BMW 540i.
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Tools/Supplies Needed:
-small standard/flat screwdriver
-aluminum oxide sandpaper
-paper/cardboard
-electrical contact cleaner
Procedure:
-work in an area you do not risk the chance of losing any of the small components
-using a small standard screwdriver, split the case open
-the grey portion or top portion of the case must be pulled straight up, as the spring contacts sit in dividers inside the case
-now remove the round faceplate
-remove the rotation portion which controls the opening and closing of the contacts
-remove the small contact and spring from the rear of the assembly which activates the "key in ignition" warning light
-wiggle each of the contacts to determine if there is resistance or grabbing in the contact
-using aluminum oxide sandpaper (only use this form of sandpaper or an electrical safe sandpaper as it doesn't leave any dust/residue behind which could cause issues), fold it so there is abrasive materials on both sides
-spread the contact open, slip the sandpaper between the contact, close the contact, then move the sandpaper back and forth
-sand until satisfied and there is no more resistance or grabbing in the contact when wiggled
-do this for each of the contacts
-some maybe worse than others
-the "key in ignition warning light switch can be clean with either paper or cardboard
-once done, using electrical contact cleaner to spray/wash each of the contacts
be sure to use electrical contact cleaner in a well ventilated area
-allow the switch to dry
-you can test the switch with a multimeter to ensure everything is working correctly for reassembly
-reassemble in reverse of disassembly
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Oh my god... You saved my day... Just did that quick cleaning of contacts inside the switch and my E46 starts now without any problems. Thank you so much...
Awesome to hear and thank you for the feedback :)
Thanks for this video, my '98 528's radio, multifunction wheel and horn cut out, this fully fixed it. My ignition switch only had 9 pins so didn't have the little spring and stuff.
Glad it helped and thank you for the feedback!
Yooo bro my switch been acting up for months it’s so expensive to buy in my country - I been stalling. I seen ur video- and say why not try - You made me believer - thank bro ... let’s how how long it stays this way .. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Right on, awesome to hear and happy to help :)
The sad part is there is a plastic piece type which fits into switch as well as ignition key cylinder. It's a tiny plastic axel and if broken entire steering column must be replaced as it's factory sealed inside column. Heat and cold causes the plastic to become brittle.
Thanks, so simple when you know what to look to for the problem. Key word for me was HORN which I finally added to search all other requests led to wheel upgrade/changes. Thanks heeps i can skip trk on the cassette & cruise again!
Thank you for the detailed video.
Anything showing in detail how to assemble E34 ignition switch internals?
Thank you again. Please stay safe.
Thank you! Unfortunately I don't have anything specific for an E34. Best option maybe trying on the forums or Facebook group.
thnks.. this help me a lot..
No problem!
wow, i have my ignition switch opened up right now and debating whether to do this or get a new one... what does anyone say? Will this refurb last?
If you're tight on cash, I'd go with the refurb method.
It worked for me - did u try it ?
exactly why you need to do this?
hello! I own an e46 318d and I've got problems on my ignition switch too. The engine doesn't start. After I do what you do there in the video, it works.. but a few days.. then again the ignition switch doesn't work. Do you know what causes this problem? PS I have 3 of them, and all of them do the same problem.. After I refurbish them they work but just for a while..
My ignition switch works but my key is locked into the cars housing, I can't turn off or on my car.
+Jack Grim-Sinn Yes you should be able to turn the white portion to start your vehicle. Just be sure the steering lock doesn't kick in.
Thanks man!
Glad to help out and don't forget to subscribe!
If I I have the key in the car and I have the ignition switch showing, couldn't I just twist the white part to get contact?
To start the car?
+Jack Grim-Sinn Are you trying to determine of the ignition switch is faulty???
Thanks for the reply. In your opinion, which relay is the most likey candidate and where are they normally found. The car in question is a E85 BMW z4 - car just keeps running even with key out and battery terminals disconnected.
There should be one relay for the running circuit which should be outlined in either the owner's manual or it will say on a wiring diagram. Don't disconnect the battery terminals, that will make the alternator put out full voltage, which risks damaging the alternator and yourself getting hurt too.
Hi, Thanks. I am not running the car at all apart from letting it run every few weeks to keep it going. Nothing in the owners manual about a running circuit. I have been told by an 'expert' that the relay is part of the control box? I am assuming I would have to remove it from under the dash to reveal these relays? However he is angling to get the work from me and charge me an arm and a leg to do so. If I knew what I was looking for it would be a lot easier. I just can't find much information on the E85 Z4 Coupe electrics on line. I know once I can find it, I can either fix or replace. Very frustrated so any help will be appreciated.
Relay locations do vary on BMWs and it's quite possible it can be part of the control box, but that can only be determined by a wiring diagram unfortunately. There is a good chance that will be in the engine bay. From what I've seen, BMWs tend to be bad around some shops as people think the owner has a bottomless pit of money. Best spot to find information is BMW related forums and considering similar engines or parts are found through other BMW models, if it's common issue, then it will pop up on another model. Best bet is starting with various free tests first, such as using the multimeter on the ignition switch. At least you don't have the issue of buying parts you don't need, that can get costly quick.
Could a faulty ignition switch prevent the car from switching off? My car starts fine but does not switch off. The only way to stop it is it to stall it.
Possibly, but the only way to determine this is testing it with a multimeter. Here is my tutorial on that ua-cam.com/video/A7fiKFIjweA/v-deo.html But most likely there is an issue with a sticking relay.