So I came home from work, no issues. All good. Pulled in the driveway, turned off the ignition and immediately noticed I could not return the key back to the full off/lock position.Nor can I turn it to the ACC position.

I can remove the key, start and turn-off the motor no problem.

I tried everything... removing the cylinder, cleaning it, wiggling the steering wheel.. etc.. etc. All the usual things to try and release it.

What gives... or gave out for the matter.

Thanks,

JR.

 

Wow... did I finally stump you guys?

I know I am. I've looked through my Service Manual, looked on the I-net. And I can't find anything on this problem. Plenty of info on "steering wheel locked" or "can't release key"... but nothing on steering wheel NOT locking/key not returning to "off/lock" position.

I'll keep hacking at it tomorrow. I think it's something inside the steering column.

 

It would say "did you try pushing the trans shifter forward" but usually that would lead to not being able to remove the key.

Also, an hour and a half of no responses is not "stumping everyone."

 

Bro, it was just a little tongue n' cheek. Relax.

I tried all the basics, the simple stuff you can do without any dissambly. I also spent the better half of the night trawling the i-net and my manual. As far as could tell there is nothing on this issue...it's all about the key being stuck which is not my problem.

I think it's the lock pin on the key cylinder. I'll take it apart later today and see what's what.

 

I gave you a lead and a bump. I was trying to help you, bro.

 

Lol. Thanks. I'm in a class right now for the B777 flight controls...so whatever is left of my brain when I get home I'll spend on this.

I think it's something in the column. I read about the transmission park-lock cable, but I don't think it's that.

I'll find and report back with the results.

 

Did you try rotating the steering wheel around whilst turning key to lock.

And also, its a good idea to post info about the jeep so we know what style steering wheel it is

 

99 XJ SE. Has cruise control which is working, no other issues.

Wheel turns full length both directions. Lock does not engage.

 

If you remove the lock cylinder you should be able to stick a flat blade in there and see if the receiving side turns all the way or not. That should at least narrow it down to column or cylinder.

The good news is at least you can move it, if its stuck its a bit tougher and can involve damage to get the cylinder out.

My guess is a tumbler fell out and jammed or something inside the column. (wow that narrows it down to two things you already knew LOL)

Just gotta get in there and start isolating.

Good luck let us know what you find

 

Got it. Took the steering console housing apart and found the Park Lock cable worked
it's way out...must have been the PO messing with something finally caught up to me.

Thanks the help. JR

 

Happy you found it cause i was gonna tell you that on a 99 the steering wheel should lock lol. Had issue like this on chevy vans where you had to rotate the steering wheel back and forth whilst turning the key