Hi Guys! Although I own an '03 XKR, I'm posting this here as well because of the commonalities between our cars, and a surprising lack of information on this problem back at the XK8/XKR board. I've copied the original post below. I really hope I haven't blown a sizeable chunk of money on a column that I'll never use. Thanks!

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OK!!! The "new" steering column just came in. Maybe I'll have my Reach & Tilt functions back soon.

Maybe.....

After looking it over (and searching the forum), I have some questions for those of you who've done this. It looks as though I can not remove and swap out the ignition lock assembly (just the ignition switch) - which raises some problems.

1. Is it all possible to modify the new column and still use my old key for starting?
***Has anyone had a locksmith work on the ignition lock for this?

2. If I just go with the key that came with the new column, will the car recognize the new key?
***I.e., is the RFID recognition function carried out "in" the column somewhere (or in some computer module elsewhere)?

These are BIG questions, because although I certainly can swap the columns myself (and use the key came that came with the new column), and/or I might find a local locksmith capable of modifying the new mechanical lock for my original key, if the car doesn't start, the closest guy capable of programming the car for a new key is 3 hours away! At that point we're talking about either flat-bedding the car 170 miles to that guy or to the closest dealer ($$$) who is a mere 100 miles away!!!

I've read where people say that the best way to deal with a Reach failure is to just replace the column. Now I'm not so sure.

HELP!!!

 

Just swap the lock out from your old column. No the new key will not work except to removed ignition barrel from column. Turn to accessory and depress small release with a angled pic while pulling lock out. Iirc the lock pin to push is gold in color. Look and try on your new column with out steering wheel and shrouding in the way and youll see everything better

 

Brutal to the rescue! Thanks buddy.

There is also a black collar thingy that goes around the lock assembly just inside the shroud, right where you insert the key. It has some wires coming from it, so I suspect it is the RFID interogator. To completely match the old key to the new column, should I swap this collar and the ignition switch (electronic piece at the end of the lock assembly) as well?

Thanks again - Jim

 

You need that black reader. That onkly reads the key not involved in storing code. Youll have to swap some stuff over but should be pretty straighforward for someone that even considers doing this himself. Just center and dont spin the cancelation module(black assembly the wiper/light stalk plugs into) once bolted to column. It has a wiring ribbon and if turned to much one way and not taken off centered or reistalled and kept centered. You break the wiring after youre finished and turn the wheel. I swapped a 03 xj column into my 96 way back when for same issue