Expert: Josh Fields - 4/14/2006

Question
I have a 1989 525i with over 200k miles, but it runs good.  However, I am able to remove the ignition key without the gear lever being in park.  Of course, I don't notice this until I get back in the car and it won't start, thank god, until I do put it in park.  This sounds serious.  What do you think?

Answer
Toni,
 This is a safety switch that is on any vehicle from the 1970's to present.  It's called a neutral safety switch.  I'm not sure if you should be able to remove the key or not, I'm assuming you should be able to.  
 My father owned an 89 525i, and I think I remember his doing this as well.

 I would not be worried about the car starting in gear as much as the car rolling off, because it was left in Drive.  It would be good to get into the habit of checking this everytime you park the car.

 So it looks like this is all by design, and I wouldn't worry about the fact that you can take the key out while the transmission is in gear.

 Hope this helps,
 Josh