Hello everyone, I'm new here. I recently bought a 2000 Cherokee Sport 4wd. Did not notice many issues when bought, but recently it has been having some issues at start-up. So, I put the key in turn it and it turns over several times, but not start. Repeat the process and it starts right up.
So first thing I check is the battery and alternator. They are doing fine, next thing I think of is the starter. So then I replaced the starter and still the same issue occurs.
Does anyone have any idea what it may be? I have also thought it might be in the ignition switch somewhere, a short or loose connection?
Any thoughts?
Thanks

 

I also have that issue. There are some links here dealing with that. I have an 01 Sport. When the jeep sits for extented time the fuel pressure drops and the fuel runs back to the tank. Not really sure of the fix. But I don't believe it is a hard thing to fix just been darn cold to do much of anything

 

cycle the key a few times before actually trying to crank it, that will allow the fuel pump to effectively prime the system and that should help

 

Try to replace the fuel pump ballast resistor on the driver side fender next to the EGR sensor. This may be a fix or not, however they are cheap and can cause your problem

 

I agree, and if it doesn't work, you'll probably have to replace the fuel pump. it's a one piece unit, and the seals are probably going bad.

My '98 does the same thing, but I just turn the key a few times between on and off with out engaging the starter as was suggested above. This allows the pressure to build up first, Your XJ should start right up after that.

 

Replace the fuel filter and put some injector cleaner or take the jeep into service for them to clean the injectors. My 89 has the same problem. When I took off the fuel filter it was heavy and full of junk, so I think my injectors are cloged. What I do is turn the key to the on position and leave it like that for about 5-10 seconds then crank it and it starts with no problem.