Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler
Ignition Lock Cylinder &
Switch Actuator
Replacement Instructions
This design was used on many Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles from 1995 through 2007. We sell these parts Here.
The lock cylinders often fail, stopping the key from turning. Here are a few tips on how to get it to turn one last time so you can replace it using these instructions
At this point you may need a new lock cylinder anyway so damaging the old one is not doing any more harm. Spray some WD-40 into the lock where the key goes. Then, with the ball end of a ball peen hammer, tap the chrome part of the lock cylinder (the face where the key goes in.) What you are trying to do is loosen the tumblers inside so they drop down and read the key. Sometimes they get stuck.
Only hit it as hard as you would if your thumb was in the way. We're not trying to dent it or break anything, just jar it. Then try the key once again.
If that doesn't work, then you will need to replace the lock by forcefully removing the old one like this: (Use the photos below for guidance)
First remove the lower steering column covers. There are 2-3 Phillips screws on the bottom holding cover in place. Now you can see the lock housing. Look underneath. You will see a small opening (about ½ inch square) with a metal tab in it. This is the release pin for the lock cylinder. This tab is what needs to be depressed to remove the lock.
Very carefully, so as not to damage the thin lock housing holding the lock, take a punch and hammer and drive the locking tab (release pin) of the lock cylinder up into the lock. Once it is depressed enough (it's a soft metal & will crush slightly into the lock), you will be able to simply slide the lock cylinder out so you can replace it with a new one.
The vehicle used in this example is a 1998 Jeep Cherokee Sport. This section will detail the disassembly and re-assembly of the lower and inner components of the ignition housing.
DISASSEMBLY
1) Remove the lower dash panel to allow access to the steering column
2) Remove the lower steering column cover. Some vehicle have 2 screws, while others may have 3 or 4.
3) Disconnect the electrical connections to the ignition switch to avoid accidently starting the vehicle.
4) Remove the ignition lock cylinder. To
accomplish this, turn the lock to the “on”
position. Under the column housing where
the lock cylinder is, is an access hole. Depress
the pin inside this hole and slide the
lock cylinder out.
5) Remove the lock.
The following photos will show how to replace the inner components.
The cast metal actuator rod snaps, leaving the key to turn freely and a 'no-start' condition. These instructions will explain how to replace the ignition rack actuator carrier assembly.
6) Remove the silver #10 tamper-proof torx bolt from the side of the housing holding the switch to the housing.
7) Firmly pull the ignition switch directly off the housing. DO NOT TWIST OR TURN this part while removing or installing it. You will see that the switch snaps onto the carrier you are replacing.
8) Remove the 2 remaining screws securing the cover to the housing. When doing this, make sure you hold the parts from falling out with your other hand.
9) Gently lower the cover, inner spring and carrier from the housing.
If you have an automatic transmission
inside the cover is a small piece you will need later. DO NOT LOSE THIS PIECE.
These are all of the parts inside the housing and close-up views of the carrier when assembled properly.
RE-ASSEMBLY
(AUTOMATIC SHIFT ONLY)
10) Make sure the small metal piece is reinserted into the cover and set it aside for now. This piece is what activates the cable to lock the shifter when the key is turned off.
11) Insert the carrier into the housing and hold it in place with your hand.
12) Set the spring into the recessed hole in the cover and raise it to be installed. Make sure not to drop either the spring or the metal piece already in the cover. These components lock the steering column and the shifter when installed correctly.
13) Install the cover making sure the spring is aligned with the protruding metal square in the carrier. This is what locks the steering wheel when the key is removed.
14) Install the 2 screws securing the lower cover to the housing.
15) Install the switch onto the new carrier and rod. You may have to rotate ignition switch to align with the position of the rod. When it is aligned properly, it will snap into place securely. Again, DO NOT TWIST OR BEND THIS WHILE INSTALLING.
16) Install the screw securing the switch to the housing.
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