Went out to the xj to move it to get our van out the drive way and the ignition key will not turn. It's in park and I tried both keys that we have and nothing. Will I have to get another ignition switch and how easy is it to change.

 

Put the key in the switch and give the end of the key a little "smack" with a small hammer. It will turn. May take a few whacks but it will work.
Just don't hit it full force.

And yes, you probably need a new lock cylinder and maybe key(s). It sounds like they are worn. I replace several a week at work for this exact problem.

 

Thanks I'll try that. About how much does the lock cylinder cost.

 

Depends on year and model. I'm a CDJ tech and dealerships vary widely on prices.
I would suggest just buying the parts and installing them yourself. Lock cylinders are not hard to change or code. I could walk you through it in a few PMs. If you have a black key you won't need to have a new key programmed but a gray key will need to be. That is a dealership thing.

 

Ok I have the black key. Is the dealers the only place to get them.

 

You might try a dose of dry graphite (fishing reel lubricant). I have heard of some success when that has been applied. Stuff like WD-40 don't help and just make a mess. I see that a lot.

 

Sometimes the shifter is in park but the linkage is worn and locking the key mechanism. Try putting the shifter in park again or bump the shifter forward lightly with your hand, does that release your key?

 

You can have keys made anywhere. Even if they copy a worn key the new one won't be a "worn copy". I don't know if auto parts stores can get cylinders and bits. Bits are the "tumblers" you need to code the cylinder to your key. The dealer should be able to sell you the ones you need. You could de-code yours or they should be able to look it up by VIN and give you what you need. You will need proof of ownership before they will sell anything related to coding over the counter.

 

Good tip but I think his issue is the key won't turn when inserted.

 

The key will not turn when I put it in the ignition. I'm not at home right now but when I get there I'll try the suggestions. Thanks for the info.

 

All above are good answers also try rocking the steering wheel side to side while trying to turn the key. Sometimes theres pressure on the lock linkage and it won't let the key turn. I drive a tow truck and see this almost everyday.

 

The steering wheel moves freely. It's not locked in place.

 

Make sure that the shifter is all the way in park push it forward and then try turning the key

 

Well I tried wacking it with a hammer an nothing. So I pulled the I S off and it's locked up but I haven't put graphite in it yet.

 

Maybe your linkage is jammed or the ignition switch is locked up