Hello all, first post here so hoping I did this right.

Been reading similar problems but mine seems different than the one's I've been able to find.

Key will not turn..
Gear shift will not move.
Button on Gear shift knob will not depress.
Steering wheel moves freely - not locked.

My spare key that has barely been used will not turn either.


-- been told my key is a ' chip ' key.



I've read possible solutions in this forum from fuses ( checked ) to sensors to ignition cylinders to transmission issues. Would like some input on what would be the best 1st choice ( outside of fuses ) for someone on a tight budget.


99 XJ
4.0
Automatic
305,000 miles ( yay )



I'm not a mechanic, though YouTube sometimes makes me think I am.



Thanks so much

Foreign material contamination or dried up grease/oil in the ignition key cylinder, a stuck cylinder pin, or a broken ignition switch rod are possible causes.

The steering wheel should not move, and might make one suspect problems with the interlock mechanism.

Chipped keys have no effect upon the mechanical parts.



Without breaking anything, try removing and/or cleaning the ignition cylinder and inspecting the ignition switch rod.

Have you tried waggling the steering wheel left and right whilst you try to turn key back and forwards and in and out? The key needs to be gently turned, do not force it.

The shifter interlock cable is unlikely to be stopping it, the fault is more likely with the rack and parts beyond the key cylinder.