Calvin

One day i got into my jeep and i went to turn the key and it did have any resistance. After it gets cold and sits i turn the key all the way and it just doesn't turn. I have to hold the key manually all the way forward for like 5 seconds before it starts turning. After it starts it runs fne. What is causing it to not start normally? why isnt it turning over and what happened to the resistance of the starter?

freegdr

Either linkages in coloumn or ignition switch is getting ready to take a dump on ya....

Bustedback

What year is your XJ? There were three different columns used over the years of the XJs production.

Calvin

1996

Bustedback

Ok, the switch is just behind where the key goes in. Pull the covers off of the column and remove the cylinder/ tumbler assembly from the switch and see if the part of the cylinder that actuates the switch is still in one piece. To remove the cylinder you have to push the pin on the bottom while turning the key to the run position and pulling out at the same time. Simple.

Calvin

So am i going to have to replace it?

Radi

Depends on what you find broken.

Calvin

It only does it on and off, like sometimes it starts normal and other times ill turn the key as far as i can and it just does nothing for a couple seconds then starts slowly cranking, and like i said earlier when i turn the key to start it theres no resistance as if a spring is bad and i have to muanully turn the turn all the way

Bustedback

You may have two problems, dirty battery connections and a buggered ignition switch.

Calvin

So Should i buy a new ignition switch or what should i do first?

Bustedback

Clean the terminals on the battery, it's free.

Calvin

And after that my best bet would be to buy a new ignition switch? or bring it to a mechanic to find the real problem? its really weird i just started it 5 minutes ago and its not doing it, but then sometimes it does

Bustedback

I can't fix it over the internet, if you're not sure of what to do, take it to a shop.