How hard is it to replace where you put the key in to start the car? im assuming I gotta break apart the whole column and replace the ignition switch or something? No idea what it is called. Basically I can turn the dial and start the car without a key even in it.

 

You can turn it from the "locked" position with no key? i can take mine out and turn it and stuff, but once "locked" it wont move

 

It's called the cylinder and key Assy. The ignition switch itself is not part of the key & cyl. You need to remove the steering wheel, under that is the steering wheel lock plate to be removed. The plastic horn ring under that. It comes right off. Than the signal switch. Usually 3 screws. If you cant pull the signal switch up enough to see the cyl.& key, you will need to unplug and unhook the signal harness from the bottom of the column. Just pull up enough to get to the cyl. There should be a screw to release the cyl. Just pull the cyl.out. Ask for an ignition cylinder and key at the auto parts store.

 

I wish mine could.

 

You just have to get the plastic off and a lock smith can replace it for you in a few minutes with a new one.

 

my last cherokee and my current one start with no key. what i do is buy a cheap ignition switch and wire it as a killswitch. easy and cheap

 

I just recently bought my 91 XJ. I freaked out the day after I bought it, becuse the key vibrated out while driving. I parked it, and just turned it on without the key. Where I live, I knew I had to have it fixed, or file a police report for a stolen XJ. THEN..........I parked it again, and gave the gear selector a little push when putting it into park. Once it clicked, the steering locked and it wouldn't start with out the key. Try it before you spend any $$ on a new assembly.

 

x2 on that. All 3 of the cherokees Ive owned start with out a key. This one at least locks when the key is all the way back but if you put the key in and just get it past the lock stage you can start it with out a key. Works great during the winter time. I work graveyards and the guy who comes in to replace me for day shift always starts it and turns the heater up.