Ignition lock turns back only half way

[mike_b]

I've got a curious problem. On my 2006 Wrangler TJ, I can insert the key and turn it clockwise to start the car, and everything seems to be fine. When I turn off the car, I can only rotate it counterclockwise 1 click, which turns off the car fine, and I can remove the key. But I cannot rotate it further to set the steering wheel lock, or to the position where it just activates the electrical system.

I had a similar problem a couple of years ago, where the lock was completely stuck in the position just before I could start the engine. That turned out to be a broken ignition pin in the lock. This seems different. The car is drivable, but should I put in a new lock? Is there a danger that the lock will go completely bad and strand me somewhere in the middle of nowhere?

 

[hear]

There is a fair chance the ignition will do exactly what you describe one day. There was once a boomer who lived here who kept a replacement in the jeep, along with the torx security bit needed to swap it out.

 

[mike_b]

Ok, so I got a new lock. Removing the old lock was pretty straightforward, but the new lock does exactly the same, with the added problem that I cannot remove the key. So, I don't think it is the old lock cylinder. What else could it be?
Key insert position

 

[hear]

Ok, so I got a new lock. Removing the old lock was pretty straightforward, but the new lock does exactly the same, with the added problem that I cannot remove the key. So, I don't think it is the old lock cylinder. What else could it be?
Key insert position

I had to replace my ignition a while back. It doesn't operate exactly as the OEM one does, like I have to kinda play with the rotation to (a) get the key out and (b) not accidentally leave accessories on. So maybe try rotating it to varying degrees while you pull on the key.

 

[Rickyd]

There are 3 parts to the ignition in the column.

The lock cylinder and parts that interact with it(wheel lock rod,etc.

The ignition actuator that connects the cylinder to the electrical switch.

The electrical switch.

I'd pull the clam shell covers and remove parts to see which is binding up

 

[mike_b]

Thanks, Rickyd. Came to the same conclusion. Just have to get a couple of tools Hopefully I can find out what is binding. I'll report back when I have tried this.

 

[mike_b]

The issue was not the lock cylinder, but the ignition actuator. Thet became immediately clear when removed the cover, and a few white pieces fell into my hand ...
Parts of the plastic had simply disintegrated. not sure why, the cold around here in winter may have contributed. You can see the damage on the picture below. The top is the new one, the bottom the defective one. I am surprised that I could even start the engine. Glad I fixed that. It was a bit tricky, as the brass part and the little spring kept on falling out, but I got it in after a few trials, and the ignition key now works as I expect.

 

[KennethS]

Any recommendations on a good manufacturer for these? Seeing all that plastic scares me with our 115+ summer temperatures that destroy plastic parts.

 

[Rickyd]

Any recommendations on a good manufacturer for these? Seeing all that plastic scares me with our 115+ summer temperatures that destroy plastic parts.

My dorman version is working fine. I'd stay away from the 15$ amazon ones.

 

[KennethS]

My dorman version is working fine. I'd stay away from the 15$ amazon ones.

Thanks, I was thinking that would be the case.

 

[mike_b]

The new one is actually a dorman part. Made in China ...