Jeep Cherokee Forum

Jeep Grand Cherokee 1999-2004: How to Repair a Locked Ignition

Has your Jeep's ignition locked up to the point where you can't even turn the key? This article will show you how to get that stubborn ignition unlocked and working properly again.

By Brett Foote - August 26, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ (1999-2004).

If your ignition cylinder is locked up, your Jeep isn't starting within some "persuasion," which we don't recommend. Jamming a flat head screwdriver in the ignition and breaking the cylinder to connect the contacts is not the recommended repair here. If your ignition won't turn, or turns but won't start the car, we have the DIY to get your Jeep started without the use of the "persuader" hammer and screwdriver combo sitting in your passenger's seat. For the love of Jeeps, please read ahead.

Materials Needed

  • Penetrating oil
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Spray type cleaner

Step 1 – Lubricate the lock cylinder

Before attempting to remove the lock cylinder, first try to spray some penetrating oil in it to see if this corrects the problem. Sometimes this is enough to get the cylinder unlocked and working properly again. If you still can't turn the key after lubrication, move on to Step 2.

Figure 1. Oftentimes, simply spraying some penetrating oil in the ignition cylinder can get it free.

Step 2 – Remove the lock cylinder

If lubrication doesn't work, you'll need to remove and clean your lock cylinder. Look directly under the lock cylinder and locate the two holes in the steering column. Remove the screws in these two holes using a Phillips head screwdriver. Push the screwdriver in the bottom hole and use it to push the ignition lock cylinder out of the hole and to the right.

Figure 2. Remove the ignition lock cylinder.

Step 3 – Clean the lock cylinder

Insert the tip of a spray cleaner into the gap in the back of the lock cylinder (shown in Figure 3). Spray into the cylinder and then turn it over, spraying into the key hole. Repeat as needed until all grime and debris is out. Alternatively, you can also soak the cylinder in mineral spirits and use a contact cleaner if there is excessive buildup inside the cylinder. Be sure to also clean any dirt and debris inside the steering column where the cylinder sits by using the cleaner and a rag, or some mineral spirits and a rag. Once clean, slide the cylinder back into place and replace the two screws.

Figure 3. Use contact cleaner to spray into the gaps shown.

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