97 Cherokee ignition key won't turn

[pinger1ks]

The steering wheel turns just a little to the left but then returns. The shifter is stuck in park. The buttons on the shifter will not push in. The key will not turn at all. She tried moving the tilt on the column and it moved but did nothing for the problem. We tried locking and unlocking the car. Suggestions?

[Saudade]

Have you tried another key? Sounds like the lock cylinder is not unlocking.

Try turning the wheel a bit (just off the lock stop) and turn the key. (The wheel could be jamming up against the pin)

Try pulling the key out very slightly while turning it. (the key may be pretty worn).

Just do not turn the key too hard or you may break it off in the lock.

If no luck, the lock cylinder could be bad.

[pinger1ks]

We have tried everything you mentioned except a new key. Unfortunately it is my son's vehicle and he is in Minnesota until tommorrow, no spare key. Thanks for your feedback. Any chance that it could be a Neutral Safety Switch?

[Saudade]

Not give the symptoms you describe. The NSS would not prevent the key from turning. It would prevent the car from starting when you turn the key to START.

Can you get the key to turn to the accessory position or will it simply not budge?

I'm not positive about the '97, but the lock cylinder usually has a rod that runs down the steering column to the actual switch located at the base of the column. The switch could be bad as well.


If the key can turn a bit but feels like something is jammed, it may be the switch. If it doesn't move as though it was the wrong ley, it could be the lock cylinder.

[Dale Aeppli]

Try putting your foot on brake when trying to turn key, theres a interlock saftey switch on brake pedal DAle

[pinger1ks]

The key will go to the acceosry position. She has kept her foot on the brake. Thanks again for all the feedback.