Ignition key & Barrell

[Ednic]

I have a 2003 WG/WJ Grand Cherokee which has developed a frustrating habit of the key not turning in the lock when attempting to start the vehicle.
In an attempt to have it behave, we have either jiggled the key or smacked its rear end to make it conform. So far this has worked.
My question is therefore:- If I purchase a new tumbler with keys, do I need to alter the tumblers to suit the existing key or can I just use it with the new keys.
Bearing in mind that my remote control is separate to the key.
I realise that the old keys will still be required to open the fuel tank etc.

What are the thoughts.

[drover]

The problem is probably caused by having a heap of junk hanging off the key ring, that causes heaps of wear on the barrell and usually stuffs it.

If you replace the barrel you may be able to get the barrel set for your old keys, not sure, need a locksmith, if you replace barrel and keys then you will need to get them programmed to your vehicle as the keys talk to ECU as well as the key fob, keys cut to suit but not programmed will not start the vehicle, key will turn engine will turn over but won't run.

Best to buy from the US as you will need a mortage if you get them from Jeep.

I'd see what a locksmith thinks, I mean a proper one not the fella in the shopping centre.

PS: try a squirt of silicon spray in the barrel, only a small bit.

[bleetnblurt]

you need the old key unless you want to replace all locks ECM sentry so on , take it to get the barrel rejibed to suit the old key . that way your jeep will start without shutting down .

[hsnow]

So long as you have w working key most locksmiths can make copy that works. Does not have to come from Jeep. My car only came with one key. My wife's key is a Silca. They first cut the blank and made sure it turned the barrel then programmed the electronlc bit. Has worked for years, cost was $35. Hope this helps.

[bleetnblurt]

Originally Posted by hsnow

So long as you have w working key most locksmiths can make copy that works. Does not have to come from Jeep. My car only came with one key. My wife's key is a Silca. They first cut the blank and made sure it turned the barrel then programmed the electronlc bit. Has worked for years, cost was $35. Hope this helps.

not on these models. unless they can code the new key , the jibs inside the barrel wear , this is due to people hang all other keys and key chains on them .
if you have 60 odd keys hanging off the one car key ........... then for sure over time that barrel will wear .
only for holden eh ?

[fester]

I'd be trying a fresh key (cut by locksmith) first and see how that goes in case it is more wear in the key than the barrel. This is cheap, if no good then get the barrel redone. No real waste of money as you would need both anyway.

[Ednic]

Many thanks for the responses.
Looks like the best move is to buy a new barrel and have the old key matched to it.

Cheers...........