Working on my neighbors xj. 2000 less then 100k. He went to work friday went to leave on the lock cylinder will not turn. Steering wheel isn't locked. I've tried tapping the key lightly while turning with nothing.

Any suggestions?

 

When I met my wife 2 yrs ago her 01 was doing the same thing . I tried graphite powder I ended up putting in a new cylinder ( key part ) had to take it to dodge to get the key programmed . 300 dollars later works like a charm .

 

I can change the lock cylinder if I could get it to turn to the "on" position but it wont turn and is locked in the "off" position

 

How does his key look? Is it worn out. I had the same problem with mine so I tried my spare key and it worked fine. It may be a long shot but worth a try.

 

try giving it a couple of good raps with a rubber mallet first (as opposed to tapping while turning) and then try turning. I had same issue and this always seemed to work. I did end up replacing the cylinder though. Took the old and new one to a locksmith and he swapped components so I did not have to use a different key. I think it cost ~$50.

 

I did that too but my jeep has the anti theft key cylinder. So i had to go to stealership for a reprog.

 

The key looks brand new. Ill try a few wacks with the rubber mallet and see what happens