1996 Jeep Cherokee Random Problem Starting

GTODDYEOMANS

MEMBER
1996 JEEP CHEROKEE
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
135,000 MILES

I have the same problem that several others here have posted where the Jeep will start up like a champ sometimes, then I'll drive it 2 miles down the road, turn off the ignition and then it won't restart. The battery light goes on and the buzzer buzzes, but nothing happens. Then usually after a few minutes of turning the key, jostling the shifter, steering wheel, ignition switch, etc, it will randomly roar back to life when I turn the key again. The battery is fairly new and the connections seem good, no corrosion. What could it be?

3 Replies

BILLYMAC

MECHANIC
2,204 POSTS

This could be an electrical switch for the ignition located on the top side of the coloumn. Or it could be an alarm prob. To determine which. When it does it again disconnect the neg batt terminal for a few mins if it starts alarm prob if not switch . Billymac

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Monday, March 16th, 2009 AT 2:13 PM

GTODDYEOMANS

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Since I don't have anti-theft or alarm, I decided to replace the ignition switch. After finishing the replacement, I went to start the Jeep and got one weak "wump" when the engine tried to turn over, but then nothing. The starting buzzer buzzes just fine and the battery has a good charge. I even hooked it up to a 75 amp starter and nothing turns over.

Any ideas where to look next?

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Tuesday, March 17th, 2009 AT 12:29 PM

BILLYMAC

MECHANIC
2,204 POSTS

Hi yes you will need an assistant for this test. Have someone hold the key to the start switch. Go down to the trans you will find the shift selector switch mounted to the shift lever. Test for power comeing into this switch and going out you should have both if power only on one side the switch is bad if power on both sides when in the crank position. Move to the starter solonoid test the single wire for power when on crank be careful with this test when you move the starter wire the eng may crank disconnect the coil wire first. Good luck billymac

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Tuesday, March 17th, 2009 AT 4:24 PM