Question: Cherokee Not Starting Just Clicking: 8 Reasons and Solutions

The Jeep Cherokee is a reliable and rugged vehicle known for its off-road capabilities. But, like with any automotive, you are bound to face challenges. With Jeep Cherokee, you may face issues with starting the vehicle. The vehicle will click but won’t start. 

This is a common problem, and it can stem from minor issues to more significant electrical or mechanical problems.

Below are reasons for Jeep Cherokee not starting just clicking. We also detail practical solutions to get your vehicle back on the road.

Answer: Why Your Jeep Cherokee Isn’t Starting But Just Clicking

Your Jeep Cherokee clicks but fails to start due to the following reasons:

  • Weak or dead battery
  • Poor battery connection
  • Bad alternator
  • Faulty starter motor
  • Malfunctioning ignition switch
  • Faulty starter solenoid
  • Bad ground connections
  • Defective fuel pump 

Weak or Dead Battery

When you turn the key, you may hear rapid clicking noises as the starter tries to engage but lacks sufficient power. This happens because the starter requires a high electric voltage.

The battery might power the wipers, lights, and other accessories but might be too weak to start the starter. 

Fixes:

Check the battery voltage using a multimeter. If it reads below 10 volts, the battery is likely discharged and needs recharging.

To resolve this, you need to jump-start your Jeep Cherokee using a jumper start and another healthy battery from another car. You can also use a battery booster. Jump-starting the battery will enable you to determine whether the battery is indeed weak or dead.  

If the voltage is high, consider evaluating the battery connections. Ensure all connections are clean, tight, and free from corrosion. Clean any corrosion using a mixture of baking soda and water.

Poor Battery Connection

Poor battery connection can cause incomplete circuits leading to interruption of the flow of electric current. Poor battery connection can also cause a voltage drop, leading to less power reaching the starter motor. 

Generally, a poor battery connection will happen if there are loose or corroded battery connections. Dirt and a broken wire can also be the issue.

Fixes:

Check your battery connections for any signs of corrosion, looseness, or damage. Corrosion appears as a whitish or bluish substance on the battery terminals, while visible disconnections indicate loose connections.

Use a mixture of baking soda and water to clean the corrosion. You may also need a wire brush to remove the corrosion gently. After cleaning, tighten the battery cables tightly.

Bad Alternator

The alternator’s primary function is to generate electrical power and recharge the battery while the engine runs. When the alternator malfunctions, it kills your battery or weakens it.

If you recently replaced your battery and are still experiencing starting issues with clicking sounds, the alternator is likely the culprit. It’s not charging the battery correctly.

Solution:

Let a mechanic test the battery and the alternator. They can diagnose the specific problem that the alternator has and make necessary repairs or replacements to faulty components. If the alternator is beyond repair, consider replacing it altogether.

Faulty Starter Motor

A faulty starter motor or poor starter electrical connection can also result in clicking sounds when starting your Jeep Cherokee.

The starter motor is responsible for initiating the engine’s combustion process. If it malfunctions, it may produce clicking noises without engaging the engine. 

The start motor can fail if rodents chew up the starter motor cable, causing a poor electric current flow to the motor. 

Fixes:

Inspect the starter motor for any visible damage or loose connections. If necessary, clean and tighten the connections.

If you have experience and the appropriate tools, you can attempt to replace the starter motor. Alternatively, consider consulting a professional mechanic for assistance. A professional can help repair or replace the entire starter.

Malfunctioning Ignition Switch

A malfunctioning ignition switch could be the reason for Jeep Cherokee not starting just clicking.

The ignition switch plays a crucial role in starting your vehicle. It distributes power from the battery to different electrical systems and components. It also engages the starter motor to cause it to run the engine.

If the ignition switch fails to transmit the necessary electrical signals, you may experience clicking sounds but no start. 

Fixes:

Confirm if the key turns smoothly in the ignition switch. It may indicate a worn-out ignition switch if it feels loose or doesn’t turn properly. This means you will need to replace the switch.

Contact a qualified mechanic and let them install a new ignition switch compatible with your Jeep Cherokee.

If the ignition switch is intact, verify that the wiring connected to it is secure and undamaged. If you notice any issues, you may want to replace it. 

Faulty Starter Solenoid

The starter solenoid acts as an electric circuit bridge between the Jeep’s starter motor and the battery. It supports the starter motor to engage the engine ranking process. A malfunctioning solenoid can lead to clicking sounds without starting the engine. 

Solution:

Check the solenoid for any visible damages. If you notice any damages, fix them. Also, tighten any loose connections.

If there are no visible damages, test the solenoid using a multimeter or seek professional assistance for proper diagnosis and potential replacement.

Bad Ground Connections

A ground connection provides a safe and reliable path for electrical current to flow back to the battery allowing for a complete circuit. When this path is disrupted, it affects the flow of electricity required to start the engine. This causes clicking sounds.

Fixes: 

Confirm that the grounding cables and connections are intact. Ensure they are securely attached to their respective locations and free from corrosion or damage.

If you find any corrosion, clean it using a wire brush or sandpaper, and reattach the cables tightly.

Defective Fuel Pump

The fuel system may have insufficient pressure build-up to keep the Jeep Cherokee running. Or maybe there is insufficient fuel reaching the engine. When this happens, the car won’t run and will produce clicking sounds.

Solution:

Check the fuel pump to ensure there are no leaks. If there are leaks, consider replacing the pump. Also, replace the fuel filter, as it may restrict the fuel flow.

Deal with the underlying issue causing the fuel pump to malfunction. This can be electrical problems, fuel line leaks, or fuel pressure regulator failures.

Final Thoughts

Jeep Cherokee not starting just clicking can be frustrating. However, with a systematic approach, you can diagnose and resolve the issue. Use the above pointers as a starting point for troubleshooting.

If you’re uncertain about the problem or unable to fix it, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance from a Jeep dealership. Once you are able to solve the underlying cause, you can get your Jeep Cherokee back on the road and enjoy worry-free driving.

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