1997 Jeep Cherokee Ignition/Starting

1997 JEEP CHEROKEE
300,000 MILES • 4.0L • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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JEEPSTER1997
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  • 4 POSTS
Yesterday morning my Jeep Cherokee Sport would not start, with no indication that a problem was brewing. I tried switching into neutral and starting, as I know the neutral switch can be an issue, and nothing happened. I installed a new ignition switch, which still did not fix the problem. There is plenty of life in the battery, and the instrument panel and radio turn on when the key is turned to ON, but all except the E-brake light cut out once I turn for ignition, and there is a single, mechanical sounding click from somewhere in the body of the Jeep.
Dec 11, 2014 at 11:56 AM
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JOHNNYT73
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  • 924 POSTS
Sounds as if it may be your starter. The click you here is probably the solenoid on the starter. Check your battery cables to be sure they are clean and tight. If you can locate that starter ) I believe it is om the passenger side rear side of engine where the transmission and engine meet). Take a hammer and tap it firmly on the back side of it a couple times and try to start it again and see if that helps.
Dec 11, 2014 at 12:35 PM