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[JamesH]

Is it common for a facelift XJ or others with similar keys to have keys or ignition barrels wear?

My Dad's 2000 XJ wont let him start it with either key (both are well used), they just won't turn in the ignition. The Jeep has done over 150k miles so wear and tear is a factor.

I'm going over tonight to have a play with it but it sounds like new parts needed. Will it have to be a new ignition barrel and keys? New locks, two sets of keys from now on? If anyone has don it before I appreciated any input on the cheapest, easiest and best ways to get it done.

Thanks

[robsrotti]

James I'm not sure if they are the same as the later Cherokee, but the pin assembly on the end of the ignition may be broken. If this is the case get one from Rock Auto. Good luck

[JamesH]

Any way to test that or see it fairly easily? I'll have a few basic tools and torchlight tonight.

[Brynjaminjones]

Our '98 did that for quite a while. Eventually dad couldn't get it to start after about 2 hours in Morrison's car park, so called the AA who took all the stuff around the steering column off, leaving us starting it for the next few months with a screwdriver.

'Twas eventually fixed by the stealer, and was just put down to wear and tear, possibly from having two sets of car keys on one key ring.

[isle of man]

YEP!!!! Like a HeShe tis more common than you think!!!! 

[JamesH]

Seems to be a dealer fix only but it was a dealer and 1 parts store that said that. Lets see what I can do with a big hammer 

[isle of man]

Africanize it....

[JamesH]

Lube and a good hammering didn't work so I'm going to take the barrel off and visit the dealers tomorrow for a price. If it's stupid then it might need to be customised for a new screwdriver-key (and probably glue the transponder somewhere).

[JamesH]

Africanize it....

It has been done, Dad now starts it with a teaspoon 

I'll report back with the proper fix

[Mike Pavelin]

A barrel to fit your key used to be about 90 quid

[JamesH]

Any tips to get the barrel out of the bracket it is in when the key can't be turned? The workshop manual has a good description but requires the key to be turned to the 'on' position.

[Mike Pavelin]

I've done loads, you have to spray lube in the lock and keep jigling the key and tapping it in carefully with a small hammer, eventually you will get it to unlock, turn it to the run position, press the release button and it'll just pull out on the key.

[JamesH]

Thanks Mike.

Is the barrel to fit the key a part that only the dealer can supply? Or is it something a locksmith or someone else can rebuild to suit the original keys?

[Mike Pavelin]

You buy a bare barrel, new springs and the correct tumblers. If you dimantle the old one, the tumblers are numbered, you can do it yourself.

[JamesH]

Excellent, thanks Mike