Jeep Repair: 2004 Jeep Liberty 3.7 liter Ignition Assembly Replacement, spring tension, jeep liberty

Question
Issue is that the ignition assembly will not start the vehicle when turning the key to the start position. There is about 1/2 inch or so of free play and no spring tension when attempting to start the vehicle with the key. The starter circuit is good as the remote keyless starter starts the vehicle. Then we have to turn the key to the run position to be able to drive the vehicle.

Is it required to remove the Air Bag assembly to replace the Ignition Lock assembly on this vehicle? And if so what is the procedure? I was also informed that there is a chip that needs to be programmed in the replacement assembly otherwise the vehicle will not start?

Answer
the ign key cyl is only mechanical remove the steering cover and turn the key into the run pos  then press the little silver tab under the housing to remove the key and cyl together.

the chip key part is only needed if U are replacing a key and the skim module which is around the key cyl but not attached to it.