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Jeep Cherokee 1997-2001: How to Replace Ignition Coil

A bad ignition coil is one of many things that could prevent your Jeep from starting. This article shows you how to replace one.

By Jared Hammond - September 11, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1997-2001).

The ignition coil is responsible for taking your battery's meager 12 volts and turning it into the many thousands of volts necessary for creating a spark to ignite the gas in your engine. Sometimes, these coils fail because the casing cracks from excessive heat. An ignition coil failure is uncommon and it can be expensive to replace. Often a failure to create a spark can be caused by a poor signal from the crankshaft position sensor. So you may want to check that before finally replacing your ignition coil.

Materials Needed

  • Replacement ignition coil (1997-1999) or ignition coil pack (2000-2001)
  • Ratchet with socket set and extension
  • Needle nose pliers

Step 1 – Access the ignition coil

If you're working on a pre-2000 model, the ignition coil is a small black module mounted on the left side of the engine below the spark plug distributor. If you can't find it, follow the center wire from the distributor to the ignition coil. Since it's so small, it should be fairly easy to remove without having to move stuff out of the way.

The ignition coil pack on the 2000 and 2001 models is located on the left side of the engine, and there are a few wires that need to be disconnected before you can remove it. If you follow the three wires along the top of the engine, you can unlatch them from the end. There are also a couple of hoses that you may need to disconnect to move them out of the way.

  • Figure 1. Pre-'00 engine.
  • Figure 2. Late model engine with single ignition coil.

Step 2 – Remove the ignition coil/ignition coil pack

Pre-2000 models have the ignition coil mounted by two bolts. Use your ratchet with an appropriate socket and extension to remove the bolts. Then unplug the electrical connector and pull off the coil wire boot with your needle nose pliers.

For 2000 to 2001 models, the coil pack is held by four bolts. Remove each bolt, and then pull the pack away from the engine. Once it's loose from the engine, unplug the electrical connector. Pull the coil pack up and out of the engine compartment, maneuvering it around any other hoses and wires.

  • Figure 3. Ignition coil (1997-1999).
  • Figure 4. Ignition coil pack (2000-2001).

Step 3 – Install new ignition coil/ignition coil pack

To insert the new ignition coil or coil pack, you just need to reverse the previous steps. Plug in the electrical connector and the coil wire. Then return it to its original position, securing it with the bolts. Once it's in place, don't forget to return any wires and hoses you disconnected.

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