Jeep Liberty Ignition Actuator Pin Fix | Key Turns, No Start (Dorman 924-704)
Key turns, dash lights on, but no crank? This is often a broken ignition actuator pin inside the steering column. In this video I replace it on a 2005 Jeep Liberty and show the right way to do it—plus a quick lesson learned at the end so you don’t drop the tiny parts I did.
Part I used (Amazon affiliate): https://amzn.to/4haNh9O
What you’ll learn:
Symptoms: key turns, accessories power up, starter won’t engage
How to access the ignition housing and swap the actuator pin (Dorman 924-704)
Tips to avoid losing the spring/retainer and to line up the rack correctly
Quick diagnosis note: starter-relay bypass can confirm a bad actuator (use caution)
Tools & safety
Torx drivers, small flat screwdriver/pick, needle-nose pliers
Disconnect the negative battery terminal; be mindful of airbag components
Chapters:
00:00 Intro & symptoms
00:31 Kick Plate removal.
00:42 Column trim removal
01:30 Ignition switch removal.
02:04 Security T-10 Torx bit and screw
02:14 Shifter Interlock
02:55 Key Cylinder Removal
03:26 Actuator pin swap – the right way
06:50 Jumper Trick to Start
07:39 Ooops! Somethings wrong!
08:15 Common mistakes (don’t drop this piece!)
08:40 Reassembly & test start
09:30 Kickplate install
Compatibility:
Similar procedure/part family on many Jeep/Chrysler/Dodge columns from the 2000s (e.g., Liberty KJ, Wrangler TJ, Grand Cherokee WJ/WK, and various Dodge/Chrysler models). Always check fitment for your exact year/trim.
Compatibility for Dorman 924-704 (Always confirm by VIN/year/trim.)
Liberty (KJ): 2002–2007 — includes 2005 Liberty diesel shown in video
Wrangler (TJ): 1997–2006
Grand Cherokee (WJ): 1999–2004
Cherokee (XJ): 1997–2001
Chrysler
Sebring: 1996–2006
Cirrus: 1996–2000
PT Cruiser: 2001–2005
Prowler: 2001–2002
Dodge
Neon: 1995–2005
Stratus: 1996–2006 incl. R/T
Prowler: 1999–2001
Plymouth
Breeze: 1996–2000
Why this fails:
The factory actuator pin wears or snaps, so the key turns the electrical portion but never pushes the mechanical linkage far enough to turn on the starter.
Disclosure:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Using the link helps the channel at no extra cost—thanks! https://amzn.to/4haNh9O