2000 Jeep Cherokee Won't start

WJ1BOHALL

MEMBER
2000 JEEP CHEROKEE
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
195,000 MILES

Driving my jeep last night, it started sputtering and then stopped. I couldn't restart. Right before it did, there was a loud knocking sound. I was pulled by someone to the closest parking lot. Went back today, made sure there was gas in it (gas gauge doesn't work), has oil. It started, ran a bit, was knocking loudly and then shut down. Wasn't able to restart. It wouldn't turn over, but it sounded like it was trying too, then eventually it would just die down. Considering either it's the battery, fuel filter, fuel pump. Not sure about the knocking sound, didn't really sound like it was inside, but couldn't see anything else that could cause it.

1 Reply

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

If its cranking over and will not start do below:

Fuel and Spark:

Get a helper disconnect a sparkplug wire or 2 and ground it to the engine atleast 3/16 in away from ground have helper crank engine over-do you have a snapping blue spark? If so-you have a fuel related problem, check the fuel pressure to rule out the fuel filter/fuel pump/pressure regulator and listen to the injector/s are they pulsing or hook up a noid light. No snapping blue spark continue to troubleshoot the ignition system-power input to the coil/coil packs, coil's resistances, cap and rotor /distributor pick-up coil, ignition control module, ECM, Ignitor camshaft and crankshaft sensors and computer. Note: If it doesn't apply disregard it

Compression:

If both correct fuel pressure and snapping blue spark is present-check engine compression could be a valve and ignition timing, issue -this will lead you to problems with compression and valves opening and closing at the wrong time/broken or jumped timing belt/chain