So I have 92 XJ and the starter went out about a year ago and I replaced it then. Today my jeep won't start and has that same little knock noise it did when it happened a year ago. The jeep still has power all the lights still work, it just won't crank. The car battery had some erosion on the terminals but I don't know if that could be a factor since it still has power? I've learned alot about Jeeps but I'm in college and need some pointers and things to test before I go in blind on it. :help:

 

bad terminals often cause a clicking as the starter kicks in and out as volts drop with load then jump back up , and down.
clean them good first, always.

 

Agreed, clean/inspect/reinstall the battery terminals.

Also just because the lights come on doesnt mean your battery has enough voltage to turn it over. Clean the terminals and if it doesnt fix the issue take the battery to any local parts store and have it tested.

 

X2^^^^

Get those terminals clean then you can start checking other stuff