Since my ignition switch will no longer turn, I've two things to do. 1) defeat the wheel lock mechanism on the ignition switch and 2) find another method to start the car.

How to defeat the wheel lock mechanism...but first, how it works.

When you pull the key out a locking bar snaps against the steering wheel shaft. When the steering wheel is turned far enough, this bar drops into a recess machined into the steering wheel shaft prohibiting the steering wheel from being turned.

The locking bar in the retracted (key in) position.


The locking bar in the extended (key out) position.

To keep the bar from extending, drill a hole into the locking bar housing. You need to make sure the key is in the ignition before drilling (so the locking bar will be in the retracted position), and that the hole goes at least partly thru the locking bar. Then simply insert a sturdy piece of wire (I used piano wire) into the hole. Since the wire goes into the locking bar, it will hold the bar in place regardless of if the key is in or out of the ignition. I used a length of piano wire a few millimeters longer than the depth of the hole so if I ever wanted to restore the locking feature I'd just use a pair of plyers to pull the wire out.

Piano wire in place holding the locking bar in the retracted position.


I removed the steering wheel shaft in order to see how the locking mechanism worked. There is no need to do so, just make sure the key is in so the locking bar will be retracted when you drill.

John
1987 XJ-S V12
75,000 miles