Jeep Cherokee Intermittent Starting Problems

Jeep Cherokee is a reliable and tough vehicle, but even the best cars can experience problems.

One of the most common issues that Jeep Cherokee owners face is an intermittent starting problem.

This problem can be frustrating and inconvenient, but fortunately, it is often fixable.

In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and solutions for Jeep Cherokee intermittent starting problems, helping you troubleshoot and solve the issue.

Jeep Cherokee Intermittent Starting Problem

Dealing with a Jeep Cherokee that won’t start can be frustrating, especially when the problem seems to come and go.

There are a number of steps you can take to diagnose and fix the issue.

Loose or Corroded Battery Connection:

One of the most common issues that can cause intermittent starting problems in a Jeep Cherokee is a loose or corroded battery connection.

The battery terminals can become loose or corroded, causing a weak or intermittent electrical connection.

The battery terminals should be cleaned with a wire brush and baking soda mixture, and the cables should be reattached tightly.

Weak or Damaged Battery:

Another possible cause of intermittent starting issues in the Jeep Cherokee is a weak or damaged battery.

If the battery is old, weak, or damaged, it may not provide enough power to start the engine consistently.

A multimeter should be used to check the voltage across the battery terminals with the engine off.

A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts. If the battery voltage is lower, it may need to be charged or replaced.

Faulty Starter Motor:

A faulty starter motor can also cause intermittent starting problems in the Jeep Cherokee.

If the starter motor is damaged, it may not engage the engine consistently, causing the engine to fail to start or crank.

It should be located under the vehicle and checked for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracked or broken housing.

Finally, a multimeter can be used to test the voltage at the starter motor terminals.

Malfunctioning Fuel System:

A malfunctioning fuel system can also cause intermittent starting issues in the Jeep Cherokee.

If the fuel system is not providing enough fuel to the engine, the engine may not start consistently.

The fuel pump pressure should be checked with a fuel pressure gauge. A healthy fuel pump should provide around 55 PSI.

The fuel injectors should also be checked for clogs or damage, and the fuel filter should be inspected for any signs of clogging or damage.

Faulty Ignition System:

Lastly, a faulty ignition system can also cause intermittent starting problems in the Jeep Cherokee.

If the ignition system is not delivering enough spark to the engine, the engine may not start consistently.

The spark plugs should be checked for wear or damage, and a multimeter should be used to test the ignition coil for proper voltage.

Finally, the distributor cap and rotor should be checked for any signs of wear or damage.

Causes of Jeep Cherokee Intermittent Starting Problem

There are several potential causes for this problem, but with a little troubleshooting, you can identify and resolve the issue.

Dead Battery:

A dead battery is a common reason for an intermittent starting problem.

Your battery may be old and not holding a charge, or there may be a parasitic drain on the battery when the car is turned off.

You can check the battery’s voltage with a multimeter and replace it if necessary.

Starter Motor:

The starter motor is responsible for cranking the engine to start it.

If the starter motor is failing, it may only work intermittently, causing the starting problem.

You can test the starter motor with a voltmeter or have it inspected by a mechanic.

Ignition Switch:

The ignition switch is responsible for sending power to the starter motor when you turn the key.

If the switch is worn or damaged, it may not always send power to the starter motor, causing an intermittent starting issue.

A mechanic can inspect and replace the ignition switch if necessary.

Fuel System:

The fuel system causes delivering fuel to the engine. If there is a problem with the fuel system, such as a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump, it may cause intermittent starting issues.

You can test the fuel pressure with a fuel pressure gauge or have a mechanic inspect the fuel system.

Common Symptoms of Jeep Cherokee Intermittent Starting Problem

Here are some common symptoms of an intermittent starting problem in a Jeep Cherokee.

Clicking Noise:

When you turn the key to start the engine, you may hear a clicking noise instead of the engine starting.

This can indicate a problem with the starter motor or a low battery.

Engine Cranks But Won’t Start:

If the engine cranks but won’t start, it may indicate a problem with the fuel system, such as a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump.

Slow Cranking:

If the engine cranks slowly or takes longer than usual to start, it may indicate a problem with the battery or the starter motor.

Intermittent Starting:

The most obvious symptom of an intermittent starting problem is that the engine will only start intermittently.

This can be frustrating and may indicate a problem with the ignition switch, starter motor, or fuel system.

No Response:

In some cases, when you turn the key to start the engine, there may be no response at all. This can indicate a problem with the ignition switch, starter motor, or battery.

How to Diagnose Jeep Cherokee Intermittent Starting Problem

If you’re experiencing an intermittent starting problem with your Jeep Cherokee, there are several steps you can take to diagnose the issue. 

Step 1: Check the Battery:

Diagnosing an intermittent starting problem by checking the battery. Use a multimeter to check the battery’s voltage.

A healthy battery needs a voltage of around 12.6 volts. If the battery is low, recharge it and try starting the engine again.

Step 2: Check the Starter Motor:

Check the starter motor of the battery. Use a voltmeter to test the voltage at the starter motor when you turn the key.

If there is no voltage, the problem may be with the ignition switch. If there is voltage but the starter motor does not turn, the starter motor may be faulty.

Step 3: Check the Fuel System:

If the starter motor is not the issue check the fuel system. Use a fuel pressure gauge to test the fuel pressure at the fuel rail.

A healthy fuel system should have a pressure of around 55-60 psi. If the fuel pressure is low, it may indicate a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump.

Step 4: Check the Ignition Switch:

If the battery, starter motor, and fuel system are all functioning properly, the issue may be with the ignition switch.

Inspect the ignition switch for wear or damage. If the switch is worn or damaged, it may not always send power to the starter motor, causing an intermittent starting problem.

Solutions for Jeep Cherokee Intermittent Starting Problem

There are several solutions to help resolve the issue. 

Step 1: Check the Battery

When checking the battery, check the voltage and the overall health of the battery. If the battery has multiple issues, it can not hold a charge as well as a new battery.

Corroded or loose battery terminals can cause starting issues, so be sure to check those as well.

You can use a battery load tester. This device will simulate the load placed on the battery when starting the engine and can provide a more accurate assessment of the battery’s condition.

Step 2: Check the Starter Motor

When checking the starter motor, test for voltage and physically inspect the motor for any signs of wear or damage.

Look for any signs of corrosion, loose connections, or worn out brushes. If any of these are present, the starter motor may need to be replaced.

Check the starter motor relay, which is responsible for sending power to the starter motor when the ignition switch is turned.

If the relay is faulty, it can cause intermittent starting issues.

Step 3: Check the Fuel System

When checking the fuel system, test the fuel pressure and inspect the fuel lines, filter, and pump for any signs of wear or damage.

Look for any leaks, cracks, or clogs in the fuel lines, and check the fuel filter for any signs of contamination or blockage.

If the fuel pump is the issue, it may not always fail completely but rather may have reduced efficiency, leading to low fuel pressure and intermittent starting issues.

Step 4: Check the Ignition Switch

When checking the ignition switch, visually inspect it for any signs of wear or damage and test it with a multimeter.

This will help determine if the switch is sending power to the starter motor consistently.

Check the ignition lock cylinder, which is responsible for locking the ignition switch in place.

If this cylinder is worn or damaged, it can cause the ignition switch to move out of position, leading to intermittent starting issues.

Step 5: Check the Wiring

When checking the wiring, visually inspect it for any signs of wear or damage and test it with a multimeter.

Look for any loose or corroded connections, and check for any breaks or frayed wires.

Check the ground connections, as the poor ground can cause intermittent starting issues.

Look for any loose or corroded connections, and make sure the ground strap between the engine block and the chassis is in good condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jeep Cherokee Intermittent Starting Problem

Conclusion

An intermittent starting problem can be frustrating for Jeep Cherokee owners, but there are several potential causes and solutions to address the issue.

By following a diagnostic process and checking the battery, starter motor, fuel system, ignition switch, and wiring, you can identify and fix the root cause of the problem.

Seeking the assistance of a professional mechanic can also be helpful in resolving any persistent starting issues.