Hey there! This post contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. But it never influences our product selection process.
The ignition Switch on the Jeep Wrangler makes your engine smoothly start. However, you may experience ignition switch problems that may ruin your comfort. Don’t worry; you can troubleshoot Jeep Wrangler ignition switch problems with proper technical knowledge.
Broken ignition switches and wire issues are the most common causes of ignition switches on Jeep Wranglers. The switch or wires will need repair or replacement to fix the issue. But problems such as a faulty ignition cylinder, a damaged key, and low or dead battery can be the reasons.
Fixing ignition switch problems will be easier if you read my guidelines and follow them strictly.
Symptoms of Jeep Wrangler Ignition Switch Problems
You may notice the symptoms below when you have a problem with the ignition switch on your Jeep Wrangler.
- Having trouble starting the engine and having trouble turning the key frequently
- Sudden engine stalling is also a common symptom of ignition switch problems.
- Flickering dashboard lights or power loss
- Trouble removing or turning the key in the ignition switch
- Illuminating warning lights with an ignition switch problem message
Know more about faulty ignition switch symptoms here: Polaris Ranger ignition switch problems and solutions.
Causes of Jeep Wrangler Ignition Switch Problems
Your Jeep Wrangler ignition switch can have problems for several reasons. However, for ease, I have listed a few major causes that may help you diagnose and fix the issue quickly.
- Broken switch
- Low or dead battery
- Key Damage
- Ignition Cylinder Issues
- Wiring Problems
Jeep Wrangler Ignition Switch Problems and Solutions
Problem 1: Broken Ignition Switch
The ignition Switch delivers power to the engine for a smooth start. If broken, it will disrupt the electrical connection, and the circuit may break. It can prevent your key from turning and starting the engine.
Solution:
- First of all, park your Jeep in a safe place and switch off its engine.
- Now, it opens its hood and locates its battery.
- Disconnect the battery terminals and ensure no power is delivered.
- Then, remove the steering column cover and look for the ignition switch.
- First, disconnect its wires and then remove its bolts to remove the switch.
- Remove the ignition switch and check it to ensure there is no fault. If the switch is broken, you will need a replacement. For the Jeep Wrangler, I recommend the STANDARD IGN Ignition Switch.
- Mount the new switch in its place and ensure it is appropriately secure.
- Reassemble the steering cover, reconnect the battery terminals, and check the ignition switch. Make sure the problem has been removed.
Problem 2: Low or Dead Battery
A low or dead battery can be the culprit for ignition switch issues on your Jeep Wrangler. It will fail to supply enough power to the ignition switch to ignite the switch for the engine to start.
Solution:
- Open your Jeep’s hood and locate the battery.
- Remove battery terminals and take the Battery out of the compartment.
- Now, connect it to a digital multimeter. I recommend Innova multimeter for accurate readings. Check the readings on the screen and ensure they are 12.4V.
- If it is low, recharge the battery for at least half an hour and recheck the voltage. If it is 12.4, then it is okay. Otherwise, replace the battery.
- Take the new battery and mount it in its compartment.
Problem 3: Key Damage
If your Jeep Wrangler’s key is broken or bent, it may also make you unable to start the engine via the ignition switch. You may fail to turn the key properly to start the engine.
Solution:
- First, check your key and ensure it is not broken or bent. If the key is okay, apply some lubricant to it and insert it into the ignition switch to start the engine.
- However, if the key is broken, you will need another key to start. First, look for a duplicate key.
- But if you don’t have a duplicate key, then go to a professional locksmith for a duplicate key. You can also visit the Jeep Wrangler’s dealership to fix the broken key issue.
- Once you get a duplicate one, ensure the ignition switch has no issue.
Problem 4: Ignition Cylinder Issues
The ignition cylinder helps engage the sequence for engine start. If the cylinder is damaged, it will fail to engage the sequence. Ultimately, you cannot start the engine.
Solution:
- Look for the ignition switch cylinder, usually mounted near the steering column.
- then disconnect the battery and remove the steering column cover.
- Then, insert the key and turn the key to “ON.” Take a small pin and press the release button near the ignition cylinder.
- Now that the ignition cylinder is free pull out the cylinder and install the new cylinder. Make sure you have aligned it properly.
- Reassemble the steering column cover, and then reconnect the battery.
- Test the ignition switch and ensure it is okay.
Fixing ignition switch problems on the Honda Accord will be simple if you visit this link: Honda Accord ignition switch problems and solutions.
Problem 5: Wiring Problems
Loose connections are also the reason for damaged circuits. If the connections are loose, you may be unable to ignite the engine.
Solution:
- Remove the steering column cover and access the ignition switch.
- Locate its connected wires and ensure there are no broken or loose connections.
- If the wires are broken, replace them. If connections are loose, tighten them.
- Once the wires are replaced or connections tightened, test the switch and ensure the issue has been removed.
Jeep Wrangler Ignition Switch Replacement
Follow the instructions below to replace the ignition switch problems on Jeep Wrangler.
- First, disconnect the battery terminals.
- Then, remove the steering column cover and look for the ignition switch.
- Disconnect the electrical connections and then remove the bolts securing the switch.
- Remove the switch carefully, and then mount the new ignition switch. Reconnect the wires and put the steering column cover on.
- Reconnect the battery and test the ignition switch’s performance. Ensure the new switch is working okay.
It may also help in fixing ignition switch issues: Ford F150 ignition switch problems
Jeep Wrangler Ignition Switch Replacement Cost:
The cost of replacing a Jeep Wrangler’s ignition switch varies depending on the parts replacement and labor cost. However, if you seek expert assistance, the cost of the $100–$200 Jeep Wrangler ignition switch recall could increase.
Jeep Wrangler’s dealership offers a recall facility for ignition switches. If you have ignition switch problems, you can recall this service. Follow the steps below to recall.
- Contact the dealership or visit the website.
- Provide your VIN to call for a recall facility.
- Wait for a few days. When a dealership contacts you, bring your vehicle to the dealership or mechanic to your garage to fix the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How long does it take to replace a Jeep Wrangler’s ignition switch?
If you have good mechanical skills, it may take an hour. However, for someone with average skills, it may take 3 hours to replace the ignition switch on a Jeep Wrangler. But if parts need replacement, it may take an extended period.
Can a DIY mechanic replace a Jeep Wrangler’s ignition switch?
Yes, a DIY mechanic can also replace the Jeep Wrangler’s ignition switch. But a DIY mechanic must have basic mechanical skills and follow instructions strictly. Otherwise, they may experience damages that can be serious.
Why won’t my key turn in the ignition Jeep Wrangler?
You may have a stuck steering column, or your steering column is locked. However, the dirty or broken ignition switch or the broken key can also restrict the key from turning in the ignition switch.
How to test a bad ignition switch?
You will need a multimeter to test the battery and solenoid. Also, inspect physically for wires or switch damage. It is also necessary to check the key for bends or breaks. You may also need to check for dirt or grime on the ignition switch.
Conclusion
The ignition switch ensures a smooth engine start. However, over time, some problems can make it faulty. You will be unable to start your Jeep Wrangler. Fixing the issue is complex and time-consuming. But if you follow the correct instructions, it can be fixed easily. But ensure you have basic mechanical skills; otherwise, avoid trying this.
