The BEST Jeep TJ Ignition Actuator Replacement Video EVAR! Project 2004 Jeep Wrangler

[@gregsheppard6060]

This is absolutely the best how-to video I have seen. It was clearly done and explained very well. The video was clear, sharp, and excellent quality. I had no trouble making this repair on my Jeep thanks to you! I saved an estimated labor charge of at least $200 and saved money on buying my own parts. I didn't have to pay for towing my vehicle to the shop either. Thank you so very much!

[@FortShenanigans]

Spot on and ditto; I don’t turn a wrench but due to the video tutorial I accomplished the same and I would estimate labor 400-600 in California.

[@carlosestrella4017]

I agree. Follow the steps exactly and you will be fine.

[@brittanytessier1651]

As someone who knows NOTHING about vehicles, this helped me out so much. Thank you for explaining everything clearly. I bought a 2003 TJ as a fixer upper, and now I can fix er without my husband's help!

[@markmorales7217]

Thanks for the video! My '04 LJ quit me yesterday - luckily in the driveway while I was trying to head out. I did some searching last night on a TJ Forum, to narrow the diagnosis. I then searched KZbin and found your video. Went to AutoZone and Harbor Freight and back home for a quick install. The tip about the security torx saved me a second trip for supplies. Thanks again.

[@livelife9666]

This is an outstanding video…thank you! My 05 Wrangler had the exact same problem as yours in the video and it happened in a parking lot. I tore the ignition apart (in the parking lot), found the broken actuator, and couldn’t get it back together until I found your video! Thank you, very well done!

[@MindTired]

Just changed mine out today. As soon as I got the actuator out, I saw it was, in fact, broken in the exact spot as yours. Engineered to fail. Thank you so much for saving me the time and money trying to figure out why it wasn't starting.

[@ericstokely7951]

I watched it a few weeks back, thought I recalled it all, got the parts off ok but was confused on replacement, his anticipation of that very thing is so useful. Many thanks, I rewatched the re install a few times. Jeep is 100% now. (where it used to be "maybe I'll start...maybe I won't")

[@diddle56]

This was SO. Helpful. Thank you! Ended up here from the "Troubleshooting Jeep TJ Wrangler". Rewired to check the starter--wasn't it, lo and behold it was the actuator with the same break as yours! Got the parts, watched the video, did the repair---you're a life saver. Thank you!

[@RobbyT]

Absolutely the best video out there. Saved me what could have been days troubleshooting. Thanks

[@jamesdewer]

Thanks a million😊 I wasted the interlock trying to troubleshoot the ignition. The part was on sale for $14 delivered. The detailed explanation was very much appreciated. Not as simple as it looks.

[@paigeattheboatramp]

This helped my husband out so much. He really appreciated how detailed the video was! Thank you!! 🙂 ~Paige

[@marydantone7886]

Duuuude!!! I just changed this in 25 minutes. Damn this dude is awesome! I don't know shit about anything like this. Off to go put in an app to be a jeep mechanic thanks to this guy 😋. Guys like this who make these videos are the real heroes. Thanks my man!!!

[@lhill17]

MAAAAN, when I tell you this video help me out big time yesterday. Like everyone else, I appreciate you taking the time out to do this vid.

[@josiahthalhofer1152]

THANK YOU!!! My middle ignition piece with the tiny golden thing blew apart and I had no idea how it went back together until I watched this

[@fendernag]

Thank you for the video!! My Jeep finally will start!!! Weeks leading up to it not starting my 2003 Jeep Wrangler would occasionally cut out while I was driving causing it to jerk and jump a little. It made a clicking sound when I turned and wouldn’t start the first try, then worked the second turn of the key for a week. Finally, It stopped making a clicking sound and lights on the radio light flickered when it wouldn’t start. I tried replacing the starter, checked the battery and replaced the clutch position sensor after reading post online. I saw your video and ordered a 20 dollar starter switch off of amazon and it fixed the problem! It starts right up and runs better than ever!! Thanks again for the explanation of how everything works. I had to get a screw driver and turn the sensor for everything to line up.

[@JuanMartinez-m5l]

im gona attempt to do this later today, my actuator broke, i did process of elimination, tried the cylinder first then did the ignition switch and found out the pin broke into the switch!!! so this video definitely helps a ton, im gona attempt to replace here later.. Thank you for this video

[@VanlilfewithDaleandBailey]

I watched a few videos on this. When I had trouble putting it back together I turned to your video. My Jeep won't crank and won't move the shifter. I found out that there was noting broken on mine and put it back together with your help. The center piece gave me a lot of trouble until you told me how to realign it. Thanks. This didn't fix mine, but now I can eliminate the ignition switch area. It's probably and easy fix, I just haven't found it yet.

[@SteveNecessary]

Ok first off great video. My jeep was exhibiting exact symptoms. Pulled off the covers and the little metal piece fell right out confirming starter problem. I could not have done it without your video. Great Job. Thank you. Should have it running shortly. YES !! Makes me look like I know what I'm doing. ha

[@theeverydaylife6202]

Great instructions, originally I replaced the actuator pin. I recommend replacing both actuator pin and switch. In case the switch is broken as I later found out. Now working as new.

[@vinnieneutron]

X2. My actuator wasn’t sheared off/broken. So it was good I had the ignition switch. I re-used the original actuator and returned the new one. I understand a lot better (quicker) how to get in and replace, if needed.

[@richharker5586]

Thank you sooooooooo much man. I have an 05 liberty and the shops were talking crazy numbers to fix it. I found the actuator pin for 21 bucks on Amazon and your video and did it myself. Lifesaver bro!

[@mo-il5bp]

Back on the road again after watching your how-to-video. I drive a 2007 Jeep liberty. Thank-you for this very informative video!

[@evilsteveo2496]

I just Fixed my 2005 Wrangler TJ after watching this video! Wow Hats off to you brother worked like a charm!

[@mikeatkins1425]

Thank you so much for posting this! This was exactly what was going on with my 05 TJ great video that breaks down step-by-step in detail and also shows you the function of each part being replaced. Thanks again for posting!

[@janetcosby3784]

Great Video! I was able to replace the ignition actuator by myself. My 2001 Jeep Sahara started right up after I put everything back together. I could not have done this repair without your video. You saved me time, money and effort. Thank you!

[@craigtrucker]

Outstanding video! I would never have found the problem, much less had a clue what to do. Taking the time to go thru the alignment was a huge help getting things back together. I can't thank you enough!

[@ML-ql2gu]

Just wanted to say thank you for this video and also the troubleshooting one. I went through the steps you posted to diagnose the issue on my ‘02 TJ and had this exact problem. Your attention to detail on all the little things regarding this fix, gave me the confidence to do it myself. Saved me a ton of money and the Jeep starts up great now. Thank you so much!

[@lylehopson9573]

Thank you very much for taking the time to do these videos to help us old fart Jeep owners fix them. This video was extremely informative and helpful. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with all of us sir

[@laurabraxtonjudy]

Before I start I want to thank you for all the hard work you’ve put into these videos. I love how you explain everything fully. I’m tight on cash and therefore attempting certain repairs myself. I’m mechanically inclined “a bit” I’d say, and ONLY a bit. Your videos really help. I have a 2004 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4.0L w/ 64Kmiles. I’m trying to replace actuator & ignition switch. Following your video, I felt this would be fairly easy; however, I’ve already run into an issue. I’m trying to remove the lock cylinder by inserting key, turning to on position and depressing the pin . However when I try to pull the cylinder out it doesn’t budge. Also, I noticed on your video u didn’t have to remove a black plastic rectangular box w/ some form of ring attached that fits over the cylinder. I was able to remove ring/box and depress the small yellow pin but still unable to pull cylinder out. What am I doing wrong. Thank you, Laura H.

[@austinharding9734]

turn the key all the way like starting it, push the clip in on the belly of the cylinder, pull out!

[@allytamez5059]

Thanks man, replaced mine on my 06 TJ pin was def broken. Everything works like a charm now 🙏🏽

[@dropnoelfield295]

Thanks. Very pleased when the old girl started. Very helpful

[@krustypunk2]

Im seeing and makin my mind to be ready to do this fix, I got this problem with my XJ 97, pretty much the same parts I need to buy and change. Thank u so much!

[@davidarjoon2626]

Fantastic video. Very comprehensive and really appreciate all the info on how it works . Thanks!

[@clxtch_64]

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! Very informative video, you helped me tremendously! I would've spent days trying to figure this out if it wasn't for your video.

[@johnbeasley4171]

I found this to be the most informative video. I was able to diagnose and repair my Jeep after watching this. Thanks for the help!

[@haywoodjablowme1245]

Another great video! Will be doing this Thursday when my actuator comes in. Thanks!!

[@Tmaak]

Can't tell you how much this helped me out, thank you!

[@jameslopatka2439]

Just had this happen to me. Changed out the starter and nothing, befuddled. Typed in new starter in 04 wrangler still won’t start, this video comes up. Check voltage and nothing from ignition wire but will turn over with positive battery jump. Video spot on!!!!

[@kenjones8442]

One of the best KZbin videos I have seen or used! Just finished my 05 Jeep unlimited and worked first time. Thanks

[@larryn8]

Your explanation, detailed steps along with the clear video was perfect. I had the exact same problem where one leg of the actuator pin was sheared off. Following your advice, I went ahead and replaced the ignition switch as well. I Subbed! Keep up the great videos.

[@axemade]

Perfect video. 100% dead on my issue. The piece broke in the same place. Easy video to follow. Great Job.

[@popularwinner]

Fixed and couldn't do it without this video, thanks.

[@davemorganme]

Perfect, thank you. Your description was spot on. Replaced my LJ parts in short order, thanks.

[@barryhiltz965]

Watched your video and swapped out the ignition switch .You done a great job explaining the process Thanks

[@lmtz2001]

Your videos were spot on I got my jeep back up and running again!! Thank you!!

[@baesjeff]

Thank You ! I love my TJ and would not have attempted this without your video. Truly the BEST !

[@binkknib4315]

The information you post on the TJ so dope and helpful appreciated

[@Roadking2003]

Thanks for all the videos. I already replaced the starter next could be the actuator pin. 😂👍🏻

[@DARRELLFRASIER]

Great how to video. I would recommend removing and checking the ignition switch before taking the actuator and key cylinder out. My actuator was good. Only my ignition switch was bad. I still enjoyed taking it all apart because I like to see how things work. Thanks 🙂

[@MixedupMatt1]

My 06 just left me stranded! Had to tow it 31 miles back to My house. Going to replace ignition today! Great video, thanks

[@WuestDennis]

I have a 2005 TJ. I didn't know if it was the starter or ignition. The ignition was loose and problamatic anythow. So I did it. Just like you said. Saved $500. Thanks. Don't expect a kickback because I never had $500. I got it done for $75, It took an hour for a very junior intern mechanic.

[@mmgoodwings3981]

This is great! This just happened to my 06 wrangler on Friday. Parts are a comin!

[@evanhotard7105]

Life saver, thank you so much. Got my TJ starting up perfectly. Feels way more solid

[@Scrambler85]

Excellent video and explanation of how it works. 👍👍👍

[@loganblalock7869]

This was a great video! Saved me some money and was well explained. Follow it step by step and you should have it done in 30 minutes. Thanks for the upload!

[@DJCryptoStix]

I needed this!

[@micomela]

thank you helped me greatly for fixing my wife 97 tj very similar steps

[@98kleenduck]

Thanks so much . U saved me a Bunch of time and A lot of cuss words.

[@SeismicWhales]

Thanks so much man. My 2001 TJ had the same problem and nI was able to take it apart with the help of your video.

[@IcTracers420]

Huge help. Great explanation. Thanks for taking the time to explain

[@nikolaydimitrov8361]

I have the exact same problem on my Grand Cherokee II. Thank you so much for the great explanation!

[@derrickburke8710]

Thank you. You just saved me time and money. And possibly my roommates job.

[@chucky104]

This is EXACTL what is wrong w/ my TJ, and we have the same color! THank u so much for this video!!!!

[@1989tico]

Standing applause on a very well done video, truly appreciated sir 🔧😉

[@Shannonboyer144]

Wish you would do this for EVERYTHING. GREAT VID

[@jordanwiley8712]

This video was top notch man. I had NO idea what I was doing in my 2003 wj. But after watching this and realizing it's the same thing, I couldn't have done it without ya lol

[@razvand.6424]

Excellent video. I had the same problem. Thanks-full to you I solve the problem flawlessly. Great job and thank you very much.

[@DIRTORSAND]

Thank you very much for your video and time. You save me a lot of time and headache and troubleshooting your information was spot on

[@lukepm4814]

Awesome video my turning signals and radio weren’t working unless I wiggled the ignition. Hopefully replacing this it will fix it

[@RCDuke4]

This video was a LIFE SAVER for me. Clear, concise, perfect instructions for me to fix a sheared actuator like in the video. THANK YOU!

[@scott729]

I know this is old, but applicable. Great explanation. My 01 keeps draining the battery. New cables, battery and alternator on a complete engine rebuild. The ignition key can be pulled out and sometimes the radio will stay on so I am assuming something is not correct inside somewhere. Thanks, even if this isn't it, it is not that hard of a job.... again, thank you

[@ser4io2003]

Two words for you ma man, "PERFECTLY OUTSTANDING!!!" Loved your video, I think that is my problem. Main thing for me is to turn the key and it should spring back once you turn it forward. Gonna check that first thing in the morning. Thank you CPO!

[@annacottrell3607]

This was so so helpful, thanks for having all things jeep covered.

[@10emac27]

Thank you so much! This happened to my 04' Rubi today. I went through all the forums and nothing matched. came across your video. Pulled the switch off and bam! Broken! 40$ later and ole Artemis is running like a champ! Thanks so much for the amazing step by step video! Saved my night!

[@mulehead423]

Great job, very detailed and on point easy to do helped me tremendously. If got you can turn screw you can do this....

[@Wittsity]

For sure the best video on this topic. Couldn't have explained every detail any better thank you for helping us who would be lost without this video and I think it's crazy how common this issue is

[@lordhylix7938]

I was recommended to purchase and replace these parts because my TJ doesn’t entirely disengage. It’ll shut off, but it acts like the power is still on (I can use my windshield wipers and radio when my key is out). Hopefully this fixes the issue!

[@rachealrock3638]

Great detailed and clear video

[@chrisbrandt3642]

Great Video! Thanks for all the details!

[@russelllewis9075]

Great video with important information. Did anyone else have a problem with the steering wheel lock after installing a new actuator? Mine refused to lock after installing Dorman 924-704.

[@davelogan1877]

Good video, thanks. btw - not sure if you mentioned in an earlier video, but I was able to get it running by bump starting. once home, I was able to replace it, using your video.

[@amandapeterhaase9334]

Wow!! Saved my ass! If you're ever near Chicago I would love to buy you a beer!!

[@mariokampo]

just excellent well done amazing passing of knowledge

[@bradwoods9035]

Great explanation.Looking to do this within the next few days on a 99 TJ..

[@thomasgena9365]

CPO, Thanks for The BEST video on the subject!

[@bendorken5652]

Awesome video . So helpful . Thank you .

[@jmann66]

Great step by step video, saved me few hundred dollars. Thanks

[@jkk244]

IMPORTANT 1997 TJ Differences. This is a great video but there are some differences I found when performing this task on a 1997 TJ (and probably all TJ models that do not have a multi function switch on the left-hand side of the steering column) On my jeep, the turn signal switch just controls turn signals and highbeams. There is no reason to loosen this switch because access to the ignition switch itself is not blocked with it in place. BIG DIFFERENCE is that the lower column shroud cannot be removed until the ignition key cylinder core - including its little “wings” that sit around the keyhead that you twist to turn the key - is first removed. This is done by inserting the key in the ignition and turning to the run position, then there is an access hole in the bottom of the shroud in which you must insert a punch or thin screwdriver in order to push the release tab which will allow the key cylinder to be removed, and that will allow the lower shroud to be removed. You can unscrew the lower shroud to help you aim the screwdriver to push the release tab, but the shroud will not come off unless the lock core has first been removed. Obviously, when reassembling it is not possible to insert the lock core into the mechanism as shown in the video because the lower shroud must be fitted in place before the cylinder core can be inserted through it into its resting place. So this last step has to be done blind with the lower shroud back in place.

[@lbz4138]

This saved me thanks for the information !

[@robertburd4041]

Great job and explanation!

[@sonny101b]

A most excellent clear and concise video, without it I would still be inventing curse words because the instructions that came with it were not good at all. Thank you big time

[@chevvyloverr]

Thank YOU for the great video. I fixed my 06' today.

[@porkrain462]

you're a lifesaver thank you so much

[@ryanterry4467]

Perfect! Exactly what I needed to know for my repair! Thank you!

[@lukaspatty6431]

yes this worked after checking everything else

[@jamieblackburn3121]

Superb video!

[@rubiken06]

Great video. Exactly my problem, great video. Only one thing my key lock no longer functions. Any ideas?

[@joshsykes6529]

I’m gonna try this today. I’ve got an 05 sport my dad gave me that hasn’t been running for three days. Tried replacing the starter but nothing. Then the starter relay. Nothing. Battery and alternator have been tested and are working fine. The car will not turnover. Just like in this, you push the key and nothing. So I’m gonna. Buy the actuator and see if that helps. If anything I’ll just know she has a new part

[@faroutsider24]

you are awesome man, thank you!

[@troydickerson]

Great Video! Thank you!

[@trentwarren2682]

Great video. Gotta replace the pin on my 06 tj. Pin broke in almost the same spot as yours

[@ssmtbr]

I can not even tell you how much you saved the day with this video. Thank you!

[@highdessert4700]

What the main symptom that helped you determine the source of the problem? thank you