1998 Jeep Cherokee Wont start.

CRAZYNATE

MEMBER
1998 JEEP CHEROKEE
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
18,700 MILES

My jeep has had electrical problems since I bought it from my friend. At night the headlights will randomly turn on and off, the windows wont work and there are other signs of electrical problems. I went outside the other day to start it and all it does when I turn the ignition key is click. I know it has power because I have checked a number of things. I can jump start it, and it will run, but once I turn it off it wont start again without a jump. I dont know what to do, I was thinking of replacing the starter but I dont think that is the problem and I cant afford to throw money at it. I hope you all can help.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,772 POSTS

Hi:
First make sure all of the grounds are clean and tight, the battery terminals are clean and tight, and body ground straps are in good condition. Next, is your battery producing 12 volts?

If so, get it started, drive to a nationally recognized parts store and have the check for how many amps / volts the starter is drawing to start and if the battery is maintaining 9.6volts during cranking.

If not, get it started, take it to a parts store and have them check alt output and load test the battery to see if it within an acceptable range.

These services are usually free, so there is no money out of pocket.

Let me know what you find, and I'll direct you from there. Also, I believe there is a ground strap from the trans to the undercarrage of the vehicle. Make sure it is attached, tight, and not corroded.

Joe