I have a 98 Cherokee and all of a sudden 2 days ago I went to the gas station after work and my car wouldn’t turn on after I got my stuff inside, the ignition reads my key since it beeps with the door open but it just wouldn’t turn, than finally after 5-6 mins of trying it finally turned on. Than the next day, which was yesterday morning I go to start my XJ to get to work and I’m trying for 20+ minutes nothing, still reads my key when I put it in so the electrical is there but it just won’t turn, I’m thinking the cylinder for the ignition is messed up. Someone saying if my wheel is turned a little it can lock the whole system up. I can’t turn my wheel more than a 6 inches both sides, my gear shifter is also locked maybe this is why my **** won’t turn?

 

The XJ Ignition lock, Ignition barrel & electricals, immobiliser or column are all possible involved

You have given a few clues that suggest your problem may reside in the stiff wire rod that is in the column and locks the auto trans out if its rooted

A bit more description is helpful, but you can do that if needed once you have investigated the issue

If you check the archives on this forum, you will find descriptions of problems similar to yours. You should search them out and read up

I do not like steering column work, but if I have to, so be it

The Service Manual is essential

here is a link

FSM Downloads awg - Jeep Cherokee Forum