Hey all,

So recently, my cherokee stopped starting on me.

The starter sounded somewhat delayed last few cranks... and well it just wouldn't start one day.

So I went ahead and bought a new starter... replaced the older starter... and mounted all the bolts, wiring, etc.

At one point I had the old and newer one tested. The new one worked and the old one didn't... both solenoids worked tho.

Now what happens is I turn the key... I get lights and electric - beeping and all... and then when I turn the key... I just hear one "click" from behind the dash on the passenger side...

I researched a few posts... and I put the key in the ignition and turned it on while in neutral... then from under the car I touched the two starter leads together and I would get cranking...

So I switched around the relays in the powerbox under the hood.... no avail.... I am thinking it maybe the clutch sensor... bc before this, something similar would happen if we didnt have the clutch depressed all the way to the floor....

But I don't know where that sensor is located... and what else it could be... So I wanted to pop in here and see if anyone had any insights into the problem...

I would love if the problem covers both the lack of power to starter when key is turned... and also the lack of turning over when the starter is engaged... like some sensor is preventing the starter and fuel pump from engaging (like the sensor that tells the car that the clutch is engaged)....

I feel like its the equivalent of the NSS on the AT version of this car...

So anyone with some insights, expertise and experience on the subject or with this challenge... please feel free to let me know whats going on here and how I can remedy the dynamic.

Best,

Teddy

 

I'm not sure there is a clutch safety switch, some years didn't have them. If yours does it would be located either on the clutch pedal, or possibly on one of the hydraulic cylinders if so equipped.
If the PDC starter relay operates when you turn the key...that isn't the problem.
Safety switch (if present) provides ground to the starter relay coil, the ignition switch provides +12v. When the relay closes it provides +12volts to the starter solenoid.

Normally click-but-no-start problems are a bad connection somewhere or a bad cable, assuming your battery is good. I'd start with a really thorough cleaning and inspection of your battery terminals, cables and connectors, and main ground cable. The proceed to the power and solenoid wiring and connectors on the starter motor.