key won't turn

[chickadee]

i was trying to start my 99 cherokee last night, put the key in and it wouldn't turn. i tried turning the wheel, but that did not help. the steering wheel is now locked and the key won't turn. it(the key) turns about 1/16-1/8 inch, but basically won't budge. what could be wrong??

[Ironic]

Most likely ignition switch needs replaced.

[JDPascal]

Is the key worn. Wouldn't think so in a 99 but...

Try a different key

JD

[cdlabelle]

Originally Posted by chickadee

i was trying to start my 99 cherokee last night, put the key in and it wouldn't turn. i tried turning the wheel, but that did not help. the steering wheel is now locked and the key won't turn. it(the key) turns about 1/16-1/8 inch, but basically won't budge. what could be wrong??

I'am not trying to be funny, but some keys are strickly for door locks
and the other is for the ignition. Have you looked at that possibility.

[JDPascal]

thas wat i was thinkin

only mor subtle. LOL

JD

[Cam7]

Ihad this happen a lot with all different vechiles. Take the steering wheel and pull back and turn right or left while trying to turn the key at the same time. Ive got this to work many times.

[chickadee]

i appreciate the responses.

apparently the ignition tumbler/lock thinger needs to be replaced

[jwaters]

I had the same problem on my 94 xj and it was not the switch. On the botom of the stering column there is a linkage from the key cylinder to the switch. All I had to do was jiggle it back and forth while trying to turn the key and it worked. All it did was get stuck and I had to free it. Hope that helps you out.

[JeepinAudiophile]

Or pull off the plastic shroud on the steering column(3 screws) then on the bottom of the column under the cylinder is a small piece of cast aluminum that is screwed on using 4 small specialty torx (torx bit with hole drilled in end) get the bit and remove this piece, there is a spring in there that pushes up the lock for the steering column... if something in there's loose or broken, it will stop the wheel from un-locking(or locking) and also may cause trouble with turning the key... i'd say check that before letting the stealership replace anything (unless it's under warranty) Good Luck!! --Chad--

PS: kinda scary how easy it is to dis-engage the column lock... our vehicles are not as safe as we may think that they are!!!