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2002 Jeep [Wrangler Sahara](/topics-wrangler-sahara/) aut...


2002 Jeep [Wrangler Sahara](/topics-wrangler-sahara/) automatic won't start. It beeps when I put the key in like it will but it feels frozen The door is stuck open and bungeed shut, which is an issue I need to get worked on but no...

2002 Jeep [Wrangler Sahara](/topics-wrangler-sahara/) automatic won't start. It beeps when I put the key in like it will but it feels frozen The door is stuck open and bungeed shut, which is an issue I need to get worked on but not if I can't get the jeep to go Mechanic's Assistant: Can you turn the steering wheel at all? And what about the key? Is it worn or damaged? I can turn the wheel maybe a total of 30 degrees. The key looks fine Mechanic's Assistant: Are you fixing your Wrangler yourself? What have you tried so far? I'm not fixing it myself. I'm just trying to turn it on. I'm not a mechanic. I live in Alaska so thought maybe the ignition froze but even then I'm not sure Mechanic's Assistant: Anything else you want the Mechanic to know before I connect you? No. It's cold and the roads are terrible. It'd be nice to drive the jeep rather than the charger

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Responses


K
Automotive Expert
Hello, my name is Mark, welcome to just answer! I will be assisting you with all of your vehicle questions today. I’m really sorry that you’re having this issue and I’m going to help you through it, but please understand that I (respectfully) don't know your skill level or tools you have to assist us to diagnose/repair your vehicle. Also, understand that I can't see, smell, hear or touch the vehicle either, so your patience/understanding is appreciated. I do not know anything about the fees or charge so please if you have any concerns, direct them to customer service. The site will prompt you for a phone call. Ignore the pop-ups. Thank you. My aim is to give you the best service possible and to help you. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to let me know. Sometimes it may take a moment for me to respond because I may have to look up information about your concern. I appreciate your patience and will provide responses as soon as possible. Sounds like you may have a weak battery. I'd suggest charging your battery up or trying a jump start and see if that helps.

It's a new batteryThe door won't shut though. I personally thought it was a frozen ignition. The key is in good shape. I just don't know enough about jeeps and older cars at all

Is that it? What a waste of $$$. Thanks and bye
Automotive Expert
Even new batteries can get run down, especially in frigid temps. Are you willing to try the jump start? The door will not change whether the Jeep will start or not so that is a separate issue. Why do you think the ignition is frozen? Does the key not turn in the ignition? No that's not it, unless you want it to be..........your choice.

The key doesn't turn. I only thought it was a frozen ignition because it was super wet here and the door was cracked and then the temps dipped to below freezing. My daughter has a battery charger and I will try it
Automotive Expert
Alright, well you didn't mention that the key won't turn in your initial question, so that helps me. Now we are just dealing with a mechanical issue with the lock cylinder. While it's possible it's frozen I would say it is highly unlikely. I have lived in -50C weather for a number of years and never had frozen ignition issues. I suspect your lock cylinder is just jammed up and this is fairly common. What we do in these situations is spray some lubricant int the cylinder and run the key in and out numerous times. Then with the key in the ignition we hit the end of the key with a rubber mallet to help jar the internals of the lock cylinder. The root cause of this is that original grease they use from the factory tends to harden over the years and it prevents the tumblers from moving. It can take a little time and effort but it will eventually free up. The cylinder can't be removed and replaced until the key is able to be turned do be patient and keep working at it until it turns.

The cylinder....is the ignition? Where the key actually goes
Automotive Expert
That's right.

Is there a specific type of lube I should try?
Automotive Expert
Not really no. WD 40 is something we use. Basically you're looking for a spray lubricant that will help soften old crusty grease, so anything in an aerosol can will help you.

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