1999 BMW 740 Key won't turn in ignition, neither can gear s

1999 BMW 740
120,000 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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TRUN11
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1999 BMW 740iL. The key won't turn in the ignition. I have removed the ignition device in the steering console, allowing me to start the car with a screwdriver, however, I can not move the car out of park. I have disconnected the batter in an attempt to reset everything, but that did not work. I appears to be the pin which controls the ignition device, which does not move. How is hit fixed?
Dec 6, 2009 at 4:15 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
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I have seen this before, there is a interlock cable between the ignition lock housing and the shifter assembly. It has either backed out of the ignition lock housing and needs to be tightened or the cable might be broken or the ignition lock assembly is somehow not actuating that cable. It(the cable) is present to prevent gear selection with the key removed. Removal of the surround at the shifter console allows access to the interlock and it can be defeated temporarily with a small screwdriver, just lift the "hook" and select the gear.
Dec 7, 2009 at 7:39 AM