austinjoe13

I've got an interesting problem. My radio, blinkers, and wipers don't work when the ignition is on. But everything works when I turn the key in the auxiliary position. Any ideas?

F1Addict

Bad ignition switch (the box mounted to your steering column, not the ignition key tumbler). That's my guess. They're fragile. If you can get under there, have a look. Pull the harness off and check for charred or melted components/contacts.

The Rooster

x2 bad ignition switch... not to bad to do I just replaced mine for the same reason.. it was only 22 bucks also I would click on this thread to refresh your grounds... You do have a Renix Jeep after all and bad grounds can help cause this failure... here the link for you
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f51/cr...x-tips-153657/

hope this helps

austinjoe13

Thanks guys. I found that it was actually the tumbler. It was sticking just enough for it to read the start position, so I was able to turn it back to run. I will check out the grounds though, I've been meaning to do that anyways.

F1Addict

A worn ignition key can also cause this but the more likely cause is still the ignition switch. The switch is physically linked to the tumbler mechanism via actuator rods that run down the steering column so when the ignition switch begins to fail it will often cause the tumbler to feel stiff when you turn it. Just be aware of this and check your switch when you have a chance. The ground refresh recommended by Rooster is always a good idea on Renix-era XJs. It will fix and prevent a lot of things.

cruiser54

Here's a burned ignition switch and connector.

austinjoe13

Alright, thanks Cruiser