I have a 2001 XJ that I can operate the radio, the power windows, and the windshield wipers with the jeep off and the key not in the ignition. I'm not even sure where to begin to fix this one. In July I had the ignition lock cylinder replaced, as the old key could be removed with the car running. No idea where to start looking as that should have fixed the issue, per the electrical mechanic I saw in Hampton Roads, VA. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

 

The ignition switch (the electrical part behind the lock cylinder) is the primary suspect. Why wasn't this tested and replaced if the mechanic was in there?

 

I'm just now looking at the invoice I received from the mechanic. It says the ignition switch and the lock cylinder were both replaced. Should I have the ignition switch checked again?

 

It's unlikely to be the switch since you had the same behavior both before and after replacement. I'd look at the wiring behind the switch next.

 

Thanks! I'll look into that next.

 

After a lot of work with an electrical mechanic, found out a previous owner sliced the wiring for the steering column to the wiring for the air bag system in the fuse panel in the passenger side cabin.