Ignition key wont turn plus...

[99cherokeesport]

As the title says the ignition key wont turn plus the steering lock is not locking. Is it the key lock cylinder or the ignition switch? Or is it something else? Checked fuse box in kick panel and under the hood no blown fuses. Need help asap because I want to order part by this weekend. It's a 99 Cherokee Sport 4.0L with 99,500 miles if that helps. Thanks in advance.

[fredjacksonsan]

Hove you tried jiggling the key in the lock while moving the steering wheel back and forth? If there's tension on the wheel it will keep the key from turning sometimes.

If that's not the issue, it's likely the lock cylinder. If you can't get it loose then that would be my first guess.

[darsh39]

I think its the problem of lock cylender ..just move the steering wheel back and forth..

[99cherokeesport]

Yes I worked the key as I was turning the wheel. Didn't work. I also sprayed de icer (has grafite) into the key lock cylinder and worked the key in and out also didn't work. Then I tried using my spare key also no go.

When I put the key in the last tumbler is a little hard but the door beeper comes on so the last tumbler is working ok(I think).

Would the lock cylinder also stop the wheel lock from working? I thought that was controlled by the ignition switch.

[fredjacksonsan]

Not sure how they're interconnected inside. Hopefully someone that has taken one apart will come along shortly.

[99cherokeesport]

I scanned the page were the ignition switch is. I tried to chop down the size but it couldn't.

Anyways see the ignition switch pic (top left) it seems that it controls the wheel lock too. Tell me what you think.

[99cherokeesport]

Update. Yes it was the cylinder lock. Jeep dealer keep the same key I had. Thanks for the help.