The key is stuck in the ignition, until I took it out of the car. Or for that matter until I was pulling it out, the key literally fell out of the ignition . Then every time I would attempt to reinstall the thing, it gets stuck again. Finally took it all the way out . Took the barrel out no obvious signs of a problem. Took it all apart and cleaned it up. Reinstalled it and it appeared to be working .reconnected the battery and the key stuck again . Starts fine just won't make the last click to the lock position .. forgot to disconnect the battery last night and the battery was dead this morning and turned the key to lock and pulled the key out .. jumped it and the key is stuck again . Disconnected they battery key remains stuck. Reluctant to get another switch . Anyone had this happen ?

 

Welcome to the forum,

The 1999-2002 models have a cable interlock between the shift lever and the ignition switch assembly. (It's electronic on later models) This interlock only allows the removal of the key when the transmission is in Park.


That is page 45 from this training guide:

http://www.jagrepair.com/images/Elec...troduction.pdf


Make sure the cable moves freely and the lower end is securely attached to the shifter assembly. I think you'll have to remove the center console, details here:

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/s...install-93398/

For console removal, the only thing I'd add concerns the shift knob. Can't remember if it has to be removed or if you can work around it.

If it is to be removed, the wrench flats at the knob base are actually a separate lock nut. You have to turn the lock nut down, away from the knob. Then the knob will unthread by hand. If you turn the wrench flats the wrong way, thinking it's all part of the knob, the lock nut just gets tighter and the knob doesn't budge. I do not care to discuss how I know this...