We know that when these infamous ignition key metal flaps get sticky and do not close properly, various electrical problems can occur (especially a continual battery drain). My question is this: How far does a properly-functioning key flap close? Halfway? Three quarters of the way? All the way?

I ask this question because I am dealing with a door lock / door handle problem that my wife's 2006 XK8 has been exhibiting for a couple of months now, and I am wondering if the fact that her key flap is not closing completely when the key is removed from the ignition switch may be causing that particular issue....

 

Jon - on my 2000, the key flap closes 3/4. Anything less, it chimes and a quick tap under the ignition switch will release

 

Anyone else?

 

mine closes about the same, estimated also to be 75%.

Z

 

And mine. (about 75%)

 

Mine too! 5's a charm

 

Also 75% here.

 

Same issue bought this car two days ago and I didn't know the level of security these cars have I mean I do just didn't really think about it so when I took it for test drive i i couldn't turn key so I asked the guy why and he says I it's just sticky you kind of have to push it and jiggle it a little so we did and it worked. I bought it and since then it's gotten to point to where the flap is totally open can't turn it pay o it's pissing me off how can I reset this feature and get this thing to turn the ignition over anyone have any ideas or know about this before I have to call jaguar and spend a **** ton of money?

 

Might try dusting the opening with powdered graphite..

 

Sounds like a problem with the key. Check the classifieds for the vendor selling TIBBE 8-cut keys and order one or more mechanical key to see if a new key would rotate better. Issue could be that the internals are worn out too (this is uncommon) and new keys will not help. Does the key look worn out? There should be 8 positions, each with one (of 3 possible) sloped cut.

In my experience, the key "sticks" when the steering lock is engaged. Otherwise it is easy/smooth to rotate the key.

Best of luck, keep us posted.

PS: Do not post a picture of your key as someone could order a copy...

 

This happens on my F150 some times. Try turning the steering wheel a little while turning the key.
+1 on the powdered graphite.