Had an odd experience I cannot understand. Went to pick up my Jeep XJ 2001 Sport from the mechanic after the annual checkup and also tire rotation, it was parked in lot - when I opened the door (it was not locked) my cd player was on. I got in, inserted the key into the ignition, and put it in locked position - cd went off, of course. It was probably sitting like that for about 45 minutes to an hour. How did the mechanic who parked it take my key out when in the accessory position? Never has my key come out when in the accessory position, and it was definitely in that position when I inserted the key to turn to off position. Comments/advice welcomed. Thank you! I am concerned did someone force the key out? I noticed much force also on my hand pull to close the door. Should I be concerned about possible damage? ..... OK, just went out and checked, and now any of my car keys can be pulled out in accessory position - apparently, the mechanic may have put much force on it and pulled out/yanked out with much force my key in accessory position - I am concerned about this damage. Please advice to me is sought. Thank you. What should I do, demand from them for breaking my ignition/tumblers, etc.? What future problems will/may arise unless ignition replaced? She was in perfect condition when I brought her in.

 

Yes, sounds like they broke your ignition switch. It could be coincidence, and it was ready to fail anyway, or it could be that one of their people got rought with it.

Either way, they should replace it.

 

We resolved it.

 

i had this happen with a brandnew key cylinder it seems like the cylinder is right on the edge of accessory mode or lock position and it came out and blower motor was still running, had a hard time getting the key back in but eventually went in.. havent had any problem since.


marc

 

What was wrong with it?

 

I can pull the key out of my 91 while it is running. As long as I don't turn it to lock when I park it, I can even start it back up without the key. I would do that on the trails, just turn it off but not enough to lock the cylinder and then start it back up without the key.

 

Yes, the ignition lock cylinder is broken - key can slide in and out of any position. After a lengthy discussion, we agreed upon their putting a new ignition lock cylinder in at cost. They maintain it broke from wear over the years and shared with me that the individual who parked it was a very good mechanic and that this was an unfortunate coincidence. I do trust this place and management and do wonder what happened but we can not know for certain, I think this resolves it for both of our perspectives and perception.

 

Thank you for the input. Interesting reading and informative as always!

 

I think that's a fair deal - My previous Jeep I could pull the key out with it running... it was a convenient "feature" considering it was a TJ and I had a separate key for the center console and at one point for the gas cap.

The cylinders definitely do get old and wear like that, so I wouldn't be surprised at all if it was something that was pre-existing and you just never noticed since you're familiar with the vehicle and never really -tried- to pull the key out when it wasn't fully in position.