I'm hoping to go see a mechanic to see my 98 XJ Sport for the wiring the previous owner unprofessionally took care of on their own it seems. The wiring to at least the horn and the AC compressor seem to not be getting power, horn not working, and AC not clicking on, though there may be more problems that I may not know about. Another issue going on is that it's always on accessory it seems. Windows powered, radio still is on, wipers can be controlled, all without the key being in. Any ideas on what cost I may be looking at, parts and labor?
Thank you!

 

Ask your mechanic what he charges by the hour.

If he charges $100 an hour & he has the problem(s) fixed in 1 hour, then you are looking at $100.00
If it takes him 10 hours to fix, you'd be looking at $1000.00 in labor alone.

As for what parts it needs? Butt splices, electrical tape, are pretty cheap. If it needs a new ignition switch, you are looking perhaps $50.00-$100, plus install labor.

 

Yep. You will never get a comprehensive quote for electrical work from an honest shop, if they know what they are doing. There are too many unknown variables. If they know what they are doing, and are honest, they will quote you by the hour and tell you they have no idea how long it will take.

If I were you, I'd start with the obvious. The ignition switch is probably the source of at least part of your problems. Possibly all of them (but not likely). It could easily be the majority, though. Get under there and see if the wiring has been hacked at the ignition switch. If not, then it's a very good bet that the switch itself needs to be replaced. Fix, then see what's left. We can walk you through it if you are willing to learn.


Of course, before you do anything else, check all your fuses!