Brief Buzzing/Grinding Noise When Turn Off '96 XJ
12-29-2016, 08:05 AM
#1
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Model: Cherokee
Brief Buzzing/Grinding Noise When Turn Off '96 XJ
Boy, I hope to not make a habit of continuing to come back to bug you folks for information. No news is good news. 
I noticed the other night and this morning something new from my '96. After I'm done driving (warmed up), I put the Jeep in park and turn off the ignition of course. Now that I think about it, I can't remember for sure whether I turn off the headlights first or not, but I think I usually do.
Anyway, after turning the key to the off position, I get a very brief buzzing or grinding noise. I'm not really sure how to describe it. It almost sounds like a starter motor when you try to start a vehicle that's always running, except a bit quieter and lasting only a second or less. It coincides with the vehicle being shut off, though. I recently had a starting issue that was resolved by replacing the starter motor and hadn't experienced this noise immediately afterward, so I'm not sure what it could be.
Some searching hasn't helped a lot so far...but if it's the door buzzer or relay, can I do without the door buzzer or is it necessary to keep in? If it's a relay, well, I'm not sure which one it could be yet. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
I noticed the other night and this morning something new from my '96. After I'm done driving (warmed up), I put the Jeep in park and turn off the ignition of course. Now that I think about it, I can't remember for sure whether I turn off the headlights first or not, but I think I usually do.
Anyway, after turning the key to the off position, I get a very brief buzzing or grinding noise. I'm not really sure how to describe it. It almost sounds like a starter motor when you try to start a vehicle that's always running, except a bit quieter and lasting only a second or less. It coincides with the vehicle being shut off, though. I recently had a starting issue that was resolved by replacing the starter motor and hadn't experienced this noise immediately afterward, so I'm not sure what it could be.
Some searching hasn't helped a lot so far...but if it's the door buzzer or relay, can I do without the door buzzer or is it necessary to keep in? If it's a relay, well, I'm not sure which one it could be yet. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
12-29-2016, 11:45 AM
#2
Senior Member
It should be fairly straightforward, with a helper, to determine if the noise is originating in the passenger, or engine compartment. This will help greatly with the diagnosis.
12-30-2016, 03:59 AM
#5
Seasoned Member
Not sure about your year, but my 90' has the saddest sounding buzzer that goes off briefly when I leave my lights on. It is located left hand drivers side under dash.
12-30-2016, 09:17 AM
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I've seen your other posts, CCKen and have a huge amount of respect for your opinion. So last night I decided to check the play int he mechanical fan. The clutch does not appear to be seized or slipping too much. I tugged on it a bit and didn't find any immediate evidence of slop or play in the bearings, so I think I might be in the clear on it. Though if the noise rears its head again, I plan on checking that out again.
I pulled my buzzer out last night and after driving home from work and the fan off, it didn't make the buzzing/grinding noise. After driving to work again today, I tried it the other way, with the fan on and it did not make the noise either. Fingers crossed, that might've been it. But I'll keep vigilant.