Not starting properly

FGR8FRK

MEMBER
2019 JEEP CHEROKEE
3.2L
V6
4WD
AUTOMATIC
17,700 MILES

I went to start and started engaged but immediately kicked out. After a few attempts I put a multimeter on it and battery read 12.2. It started with a jump box. Charged overnight and 12.8 when removed, drove to O'Reilly's and it tested good but was told it said it was coming to the end of its life. Now the info center will only come on when radio is on, and headlight daylight sensor doesn't seem to be working. I was told to take cables off and connect together, no change but it has started several times since.

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3 Replies

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

I suspect you have a shorted cell or a discharged battery that is causing these odd issues. Basically, when the battery voltage starts to drop it will cause these types of odd issues.

Even though the battery measures 12 volts with a meter doesn't mean it can handle the load. This means we need to start with getting the battery load tested as shown in this guide after the vehicle sits without a charger on it overnight.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

Basically, by charging the battery overnight and then getting it tested, it passes because it is able to hold the charge for just a short time. However, we need to know if the battery can hold the charge for a long time which I suspect cannot.

So, if it only starts with a jump start, then jump it and drive it to the parts store and have it tested again, and I suspect it will fail. Which means we need to replace it and see if all these issues go
away.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-car-battery

Let me know if you have questions about this.

Thanks