2003 Jeep TJ Can't Start

TIMST3R

MEMBER
2003 JEEP WRANGLER TJ
6 CYL
4WD
MANUAL
125,000 MILES

Hi, I have a problem starting my Jeep. It was working fine then one day it decided to turn over but not start. I check all the fuses. Good. I noticed when I put the key in the ignition to one I sometimes hear the realys and fuel pump kick in. If they do not then my gauges don't move, if the relays and fuel pump run then the gauges turn on and I have to keep the gas petal pressed in order to start. If I do not keep the petal pushed then it will turn over but not start. Once it starts then I have to keep the petal depressed until it warms up. No idle. I have replaced the battery and CKP sensor. What next?

1 Reply

CJ MEDEVAC

MECHANIC
11,005 POSTS

I really don't know if this will help you! I just hate to see somebody, without their Baby running, for any period of time.

ANYBODY WITH A BETTER ANSWER, JUMP IN ! ! !

This may help.....see my profile.....Jeep Fanatic Too....written/experienced by me and sent to several other people w/ similar situations at this site........pasting

Our Escape would idle low, then it got to point it would die when you stopped.

Reving + holding brake was only way to keep it running.

I took it to fellow R/C airplane pilot,he doubles as a S.C. State HWY DEPT mechanic.

When I got to his house , he was repairing a tractor. Told him my sob story.

Escape was still barely running, I raised the hood. He gandered in for a moment.

Then he said, (and I quote).............."It could be the IDLE AIR CONTROL (IAC)", as he pointed to it, and emphasied it with a sharp rap using the wrench in his hand.

It straightened right up, and ran like it was new!

That was a 15/16 Craftsman wrench, box end, kinda a medium rap.

YES, I visited parts store and replaced it.

Hope this helps

.........unpasting.........

Buddy also said I could clean it.........I took no chances, its WIFEs rig......Did replace it...........IT WAS VERY EZ TO REMOVE/ REPLACE/ SIMPLE INSIDE......he said clean moving parts, a drop of oil on the piston shaft, and leave motor alone.

It might pay to clean it and VERIFY IAC is problem

Hope I helped, send back results.

Love, Turddog