"Jeep Cherokee XJ Trouble Shooting - My Jeep won't start!"
October 16, 2009 by Mike StrawbridgeFailure to start falls into two categories:
1) The engine will not turn over – the starter motor will not run
Or
2) The engine turns over but will not fire and run.
This article will address the first cause. If you engine turns over but will not fire see my other article.
Start by checking the battery voltage. Most Jeeps have a voltage meter on the dash. If the voltage is low – below 10 volts, check the following:
- Fist check to see if there is a cause for the battery to be discharged. Were the lights left on? Doors left open or other power draining accessory left on? If so, turn off the drain and use jumper cables to start using a charged battery from a different vehicle.
- If there has been no excess power drain, check the condition of the battery cables. Remove the cables from the battery posts and clean the contacts. Also check the connection of the ground cable to the vehicle body.
- If the battery cables are clean and making good contact and the voltage is still low, verify that the alternator is functioning properly.
- If the battery continues to fail to start your Jeep, replace the battery.
Mike Strawbridge October 16, 2009