The engine does not crank?

JEEP-WORRELL

MEMBER
1994 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE
4.0L
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
198,000 MILES

Hi, I have the vehicle listed above, that the engine won't turn over. I replaced the starter, and it turned over and ran that evening. The next morning it wouldn't turn over. I held the key, turned in the ignition for about 10 seconds and then it turned over and started. When I turned the car off it would not start again, even with holding the key down. Jumping the car made no difference at all. When I turn the key, it sounds like there are some faint slow clicks.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,724 POSTS

Hi,

The click is likely the starter relay. Here is what I need you to do. First, see if it makes a difference if you try starting it in neutral.

If there is no change, please confirm the battery terminals are both clean and tight, the battery is fully charged, and the negative terminal wire that goes to the engine block is clean and tight.

Next, confirm fuse 12 in the under-hood fuse box is good and has power both to and from it.

Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

Locate the starter relay and switch it with a different one having the same part number. See if that changes what is happening.

If that checks good. I need you to get a helper. At the starter motor, you will find a smaller light green wire with a black tracer. That is the trigger wire. It only has power when the key is in the start position. Have a helper turn the key to the start position while you check to see if power becomes available when that is done.

I attached a wiring schematic below for your reference. Also, I was able to locate a pic showing the starter relay location, but my manual doesn't provide a location for fuse 12. Both the relay and fuse are located in the power distribution box under the hood. See if the owner's manual or lid off the fuse box indicates it.

Let me know what you find,

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to make bigger)