2002 jeep grand cherokee ignition switch problems

The agency said it had received 32 complaints from Grand Cherokee and Commander owners since 2004 alleging that the ignition had been easily bumped to the off position by the driver’s knee hitting the key. Chrysler said it knew of at least one crash and roughly 119 complaints from owners related to the switch problem. As with the General Motors ignition-switch recall, the airbag controllers can stay powered for only 150 milliseconds after the car shuts down, which means that if the engine dies, they won’t deploy.

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2002 jeep grand cherokee ignition switch problems

Getty Images/Bill Pugliano

As it did with the minivans, Chrysler likely will install hardier detent rings inside the ignition switches to prevent the key from moving too readily, although it hasn’t specified the exact repair in this case. Another 920,000 2002–2003 Jeep Liberty and 2002–2004 Grand Cherokee models are under NHTSA investigation for airbags that can accidentally deploy.



Chrysler is also recalling 21,000 cars and trucks for shocks and struts that can “break free from their mounts” and cause a loss of control. The 2014 Ram 1500, 2015 Jeep Cherokee, and 2015 Chrysler 200 are affected, including about 14,300 in the U.S. Chrysler hasn’t set dates for customer notification or repairs.

This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

The Fix: Chrysler doesn't currently have a fix for this recall, but says engineers are working on a solution. In the meantime, the company advises owners remove any excess items from their car keys, and ensure their knees don't impact the ignition key while driving. A recall should be ready by mid-September.

Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: 14,300 2014 Ram 1500, 2015 Jeep Cherokee, and 2015 Chrysler 200 models in the U.S., plus another 7460 in other countries.

The ignition switch on your Jeep Grand Cherokee is the central control for all of the electrical components in your Jeep. It is located behind the key cylinder, in the steering column of your Jeep. If the switch is faulty, it will affect your engine, accessories and all of the electrical functions of your truck. The switch is a dealer item, so to replace it you will need to contact a Jeep dealer.

Step 1

Remove the lower cover from the steering column. Remove the three screws securing it in place using a Philips screwdriver.

Step 2

Insert the ignition key into the key cylinder. Rotate the slot in the ignition switch to the “ON” position. The slot is located on the back of the ignition switch. Position the slot so it is just beyond a 90-degree angle.

Step 3

Attach the two electrical connections to the back of the ignition switch. Verify that the locking tabs fully seat into the connections.

Step 4

Insert the switch into the steering column and secure it with the Torx head screw. Torque the screw to 26 inch-pounds using your torque wrench with a Torx bit.

Step 5

Reattach the lower cover to the steering column. Insert and tighten the three retaining screws to secure it into place, using a Philips head screwdriver.

Step 6

Test the ignition switch to be sure that it is functioning properly.

Things You'll Need

  • Philips head screwdriver
  • Torx bit set
  • Ratchet
  • Torque wrench

Warnings

  • Be sure to disconnect the car's battery before you begin work on the car's electrical system.

Writer Bio

Tara Kimball is a former accounting professional with more than 10 years of experience in corporate finance and small business accounting. She has also worked in desktop support and network management. Her articles have appeared in various online publications.

Jeep Grand Cherokee owners have reported 287 problems related to ignition switch (under the electrical system category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Jeep Grand Cherokee based on all problems reported for the Grand Cherokee.

1 Ignition Switch problem of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee

All the electrical stuff on my car flashes on and off or will just go completely blank for awhile while I'm driving this includes speedometer and all my lights and windshield wipers which is very much needed to drive safely it appears that the car shuts off but it continues to run and I've done research and it is my ignition switch I saw that there was a recall on it already and I called and they told me they wouldn't fix it I'm not sure how all of this works so I'm writing you guys for help. When it had first happened I was going about 60 mph down the highway in the rain in washington state I feel very unsafe in this vehicle now I can't take the chance of being on the freeway and this happening again in the rain the speedometer wasn't so scary but when your windshield wipers go out while it's raining and you're driving on the highway it's pretty scary and very unsafe for everyone. The video I have is another day it still continues to happen it was too risky to try and take videos of it the first time. So I guess I can't upload videos on here the picture it looks like I could be parked but I do have a video that I can send in to you guys if you provide me with an email.

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2 Ignition Switch problem of the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Tl- the contact owns a 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4. Two years ago, the contact stated that he received a recall notice under NHTSA campaign number: 14v438000(electrical system). The contact took the vehicle to mac haik jackson cdjr(5395 interstate 55 north frontage rd, jackson, ms 39211) where he had the vehicle serviced and repaired for the recall. Recently, the contact stated that while either stopped or driving at various speed, the vehicle would unexpectedly shut off. The contact stated that the check engine warning light had remained illuminated prior to the failure. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where they diagnosed the vehicle with a faulty ignition switch which the contact linked to the original recall. The dealer nor the manufacturer had been notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 175,500.

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3 Ignition Switch problem of the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The contact owns a 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that after pulling into the garage and parking the vehicle, the vehicle was turned off however, the key had seized in the ignition switch. After waiting for several minutes, the contact heard a click from the ignition switch and the key was able to be removed. The contact stated the failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the ignition switch was faulty and needed to be replaced. The contact referenced NHTSA campaign number: 14v567000 (electrical system) however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

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4 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

I have been dealing with this Jeep Grand Cherokee issue for years now. At one point there was a recall on the ignition switch and it was replaced at the local Chrysler dealer. The issue I have is identical to the one in the link attached. Up until a few weeks ago, I lived with it. Now the issue has turned dangerous because it also affects the ability to brake and turn. When the brakes seemed compromised, I took the Jeep in for repair but they were not able to duplicate the issue. I picked it up last week from the repair shop and today it was the power steering that went out along with the usual dash panel function going out. I realize that this is an older Jeep but it seems Chrysler should still be responsible for the vehicle safety. . Read more...

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5 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Vehicle will lose all inside power - dash lights & controls, a/c, etc, whether driving or just sitting idling. Upon restart, it may or may not happen again. Most times it will be ok but you never know when it will happen. If driving, the vehicle will need to stop. You lose all power when it happens. Has happened while driving at 55 mph on a major road, also happened while pulling into my employer's parking lot. The ignition switch was replaced after a recall 2 or 3 years ago at my local dealership. My hunch is that it is still an issue with the ignition switch. It is not detected when tested on a computer as I have brought it in to a local mechanic and they could not identify why the vehicle was doing this.

6 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Headlights flicker and sometime go off completely while auto if being driven. This has been happening intermittently for several months. Have had the ignition switch recall performed and also have had the new ignition switch replaced twice but problem continues. Very dangerous situation to drive at night with unreliable lights.

7 Ignition Switch problem of the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

After turning off engine, key fob is seized in ignition switch, but releases after period of time. This is a constant recurring issue, with varying wait times, occurring each time car is driven. Prolonged wait time causes battery to drain.

8 Ignition Switch problem of the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The contact owns a 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee. While driving 45 mph, the engine seized and shut off. The contact was able to park the vehicle on the side of the road and restart it with no issue. The contact stated she experienced the failure again on July 12, 2019. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the ignition switch needed to be replaced. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA campaign number: 14v567000 (electrical system). The contact called bryden motors (located at 548 broad st, beloit, WI 53511, (608) 364-8880) and notified them of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 71,000.

9 Ignition Switch problem of the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Tl the contact owns a 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee. While driving, the ignition switch would turn off independently and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was restarted and was able to drive normally. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 14v567000 (electrical system). The contact was referred to NHTSA. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.

10 Ignition Switch problem of the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Tl the contact owns a 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired per an unknown recall regarding the ignition switch. Two years later, the ignition switch failed and caused the contact's key to bend. The vehicle was taken to gunter Chrysler Dodge Jeep ram of martinsville (4750 greensboro rd, ridgeway, va 24148) who stated that the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The manufacturer was notified. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 140,000.

11 Ignition Switch problem of the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep will completely turn off while driving at random times and at random speeds. This includes highway and local roads. More than once, while driving at high speeds on the highway, the car turned off and I had to coast to the shoulder, turn the ignition switch to off and restart the car. Car will also intermittently not accelerate above 40 mph. The car has been brought to more than one repair shop and no one can find anything wrong with it that would cause this dangerous situation.

12 Ignition Switch problem of the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The ignition switch won't start my Jeep put key in and nothing no clicks no trying to start nothing then after sometime it will start then again it won't start.

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13 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

While I was driving in my local suburban neighborhood, after driving about 6 miles, my vehicle shuttered and the dashboard lights flicked on and off a few times and started beeping. I got really scared so I pulled over, turned the car on and off again, and that is when I noticed the check engine light was now on. I immedietely took it to my trustworthy mehanic and that it when he told me the code reader was giving an error code of u1411 ignition switch. I did my own research and discovered that my vehicle fits the description (year/make/model) of a recall that was done on Jeeps 2006-2007 for faulty ignition switches.

14 Ignition Switch problem of the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Transfer case, suspension and ignition switch seems to be causing major issues after 105,000 miles and the "warranty" just ended just before all these issues started happening. When tried to start once the engine shuttered then turned off. Started up after that, but then it has issues wanting to accelerate and can feel the Jeep struggling at times to switch gears or whatever the transfer case may assist in. Also have noticed the suspension has start to rock.

15 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

While driving the dash board goes black and all gauges go to zero loses complete electrical power. This happens several times a week. Ignition switch has been changed already.

16 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The car shut off lost all power control panel went out while driving at 45 miles per hour I quickly wiggled the key(ignition switch ) and the car began to run again.

17 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

1st recall recieved in 2014 about a moth after purchase said the ignition switch was faulty causing loss of power. To date have had the ignition replaced 2x. It stil looses power while in motion from 45mph to 70mph. Have had many repairs done claiming to fix the problem and nothing has worked. Dealership keeps saying they don't know what the problem is. When it loose all power I have approx. 20 seconds to make it to the shoulder. Have almost been hit several times on the freeway. This happens on a daily basis. My husband and I feel like it may be an electrical shortage somewhere that no one can seem to find.

18 Ignition Switch problem of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The contact owns a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee. While driving various speeds, the vehicle would suddenly shut off. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer (DE cozen Chrysler/Jeep in verona, NJ) where it was diagnosed that the ignition switch was faulty. The vehicle was serviced per NHTSA campaign number: 14v438000(electrical system) and the ignition switch was replaced; however, the failure continued. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 164,000.

19 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Tl- the contact owns a 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that the it intermittently was inoperable after the ignition switch was shifted into the on position. The vehicle was towed to freedom Chrysler Jeep Dodge located 6060 allentown blvd, harrisburg, PA where the failure could not be diagnosed. The contact stated that the failure occurred more frequently after NHTSA campaign number: 14v438000( electrical system) was performed. The contact stated that the battery was replaced various occasions regarding the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000. Kh.

20 Ignition Switch problem of the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Constant rumble in rear end of vehicle. Dealer has had 5 separate occasions and can't resolve. Feels like rest wheels will fall off. Also, intermittently when turning ignition switch, vehicle won't start. After 2-3 times it will then start. Had a 2005 keep cherokee that did the same unresolved issue.

21 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The contact owns a 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee. While driving at unknown speeds, the contact looked through the rearview mirror and noticed metal debris falling from underneath the vehicle. The contact pulled the vehicle off the roadway to inspect underneath it and noticed that the skid plate under the fuel tank was bent and rotting away. The contact mentioned that the vehicle was previously at the dealer (bob richards Chrysler Dodge Jeep ram 1666 jefferson davis hwy, graniteville, SC 29829 (855) 984-5458) for power steering replacement and transmission inspection. While the vehicle was on the lift for the transmission inspection, the dealer's mechanic noticed that the skid plate was damaged, which could have been a fire hazard with a fuel leak. The vehicle was taken back to bob richards Chrysler Dodge Jeep ram (1666 jefferson davis hwy, graniteville, SC 29829 (855) 984-5458) where it was diagnosed that the skid plate was gone and needed replacement. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for repairs due to the less expensive cost. The contact also stated that the vehicle was serviced per NHTSA campaign number: 14v438000 (electrical system), but the failure continued and the ignition would inadvertently turn. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact believed that the failure was related to the wiring harness and not the ignition switch. When the vehicle was started and the engine was turned off, it restarted itself seconds later. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but did not offer any assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 152,000.

22 Ignition Switch problem of the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee

This is the third time I receive a letter on the mail from Jeep named as "important safety recall information" stating that my car has been recalled due to a defect relating to motor vehicle safety, more specifically: unintended change in ignition switch position that implies a safety risk. I went on the safecar. Gov site to confirm the status of my recall and it says that there is a recall in effect on my car model but unfortunately Jeep doesn't have the part replacement yet. I want this problem fixed ASAP.

23 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Continued stalling issues because of ignition switch recall. Had the recall service performed and it is still having stalling issues to the point that without they key in the ignition the vehicle will shift into gear. Last occurrence it wouldn't turn over and when it did a horrendous sound came from the engine. Needs new motor per mechanic.

24 Ignition Switch problem of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee

While driving my Jeep randomly shifts into neutral so I need to pull off the road and put into park then back into gear, and I just got a recall notice for the ignition switch.

25 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

I had my ignition switch replaced as a result of recall NHTSA campaign number: 14v438000 nearly a year ago. Now I am experiencing the same dash lights flashing and blower not working problem as others while driving. This problem is occurring more frequently. Today after parking, I depressed the key switch to turn the vehicle off (the newly designed switch must be pressed in for it to turn) and all the dash lights lit up and blower stopped. Releasing the switch returned the dash lights to normal. Depressing the key caused the lights to turn on again. I was able to repeat this several times before it stopped. Obviously the new key switch design is contributing to the dash light problem as well. I will be bringing the vehicle back to the dealer to have the key switch replaced again.

26 Ignition Switch problem of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The contact owns a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee. While the vehicle was stationary, it would not start when prompted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that there was an ignition switch recall on the vehicle that had not yet been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 134,000.

27 Ignition Switch problem of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Consumer writes in regards to ignition switch safety recall. The consumer stated the while attempting to make a left turn the steering and brakes failed. The vehicle went off the road and about 15 feet nose first into a gully. The air bags did not deploy. The consumer stated a recall was later released that appeared to have been related to the failures. The manufacturer advised the failure was not related to the recall.

28 Ignition Switch problem of the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The contact owns a 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that the vehicle was inadvertently moved through the run position to the accessory or off ignition position, and the engine shut off. The vehicle was taken to the manufacturer who stated that the ignition switch and key fob needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 14v567000 (electrical system). The contact stated that the vehicle experienced the same failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 120,000.

29 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The contact owns a 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 14v438000 (electrical system) for the ignition switch; however, the parts to do the repair were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

30 Ignition Switch problem of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee

(my state, zip code & tele no. Are wrong as I'm in the uk) on several occasions the engine dies in motion, on a motorway, street, main road etc. Instrument panel lights go off, loss of power steering & so far I've managed to pull over but was nearly hit by another vehicle yesterday hence this complaint. This problem is extremely dangerous & could quite easily lead to a serious accident. When my local Jeep fixed recalls I asked about the ignition switch problem that I've read about on the internet, asking if they had replaced it and they told me that they had reprogrammed the system so should be okay. Well, the issue is still very much alive and far from okay.

31 Ignition Switch problem of the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Soon after the p41 ignition switch recall, while driving 1 mile, the instrument cluster gauges stopped working-speedo, gas, etc , all warning lights illuminated . Information messages in the ic noted "service required : and transmission -over the temperature allowed u1403,u1411,u110e, u110f and others all implausible signals to ic. While driving transmission an road speed decreased immediately while at speed and engine and transmission to not operate in a predictably safe operation. These are the symptoms that the recall was to repair. What is the next step?.

32 Ignition Switch problem of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee

My ignition switched off disabling mostly everything on the vehicle. This was all while doing 75 mph on the interstate. I love Jeep but they to get this fixed.

33 Ignition Switch problem of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The contact owns a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee. While the vehicle was stationary, the ignition switch malfunctioned. The contact could not shut off the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 125,000.

34 Ignition Switch problem of the 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee

My complaint involving my vehicle and its now defected parts or unsafe status to operate is due to mechanical workmanship. I purchased my vehicle 3 years ago. Never had major problems with it and maintained it well and regular tune-ups. I invested in buying all parts needed as time well ware and tare. Im not too familiar with auto parts or work but as im putting more money into "new parts" my car seems to slowly continue to fail. All I know is I relied on certain mechanics to improve the condition of my car. I had a operable vehicle until I drove into this auto shop and left having to tow it out. I simply asked to change front brake pads, roters, and ignition switch (electrical part). Im told to purchase other parts that include screws, steering column, and key locksmith/ fees. Nothing got resolved and electrical everything stops working. Jeeps front driver tire stays on a flat and to make matters worse a Chrysler dealership is the only place that can fix this. The mechanic spoke to the dealership and finally seemed to have it figured out. $50 was the price I was told I would be left with. After running test and diagnostics, prices changed and more work was needed. Its been a little over 2 months since ive been without. Now im told I need to pay in full $1500 before they will work on my vehicle. I havent been offered a rental muchless been satisfied with the work done. I feel like my car has been stripped of paid parts. Ive looked online for advice and help as what I should do but no action has been done. I would appreciate and greatly be thankful for someone to look into the safety and work performed to my Jeep. As for the recalls the service tech named off several that he stated were taken care of. To my knowledge ive never been aware of any.

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35 Ignition Switch problem of the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The car ignition went into accessory position causing the engine to stop while I was driving it on the road. I do not have a lot of keys on the key. Also the ignition switch feels somewhat loose when I turn the key.

How to bypass ignition switch on Jeep Cherokee?

Connect the positive terminal of the battery to the positive side of the ignition coil. Also, identify the starter solenoid and connect it to the positive terminal of the battery. Next, unplug the ignition switch wire from the solenoid and then short the solenoid's terminal to reach where the ignition switch connects.

Why won t my 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee start?

The most common reasons a Jeep Grand Cherokee won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter. Search our network of RepairPal Certified shops near you to speak with a technician about your issue.

Why won't my jeep start when I turn the key?

Basically, with a fully charged battery, and with the key held in the "start" position, the starter is either getting power or it isn't. With the key in the "start" position, if the starter motor is getting power but the starter doesn't work, then the starter is condemned and replaced.

How much is it to replace the ignition switch in a Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Jeep Grand Cherokee Ignition Switch Replacement Cost Estimate. The average cost for a Jeep Grand Cherokee ignition switch replacement is between $159 and $213. Labor costs are estimated between $63 and $80 while parts are priced between $96 and $133.