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Is it the Ignition Switch?

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Old May 10, 2013 | 11:04 PM
  #1  
Sombix's Avatar
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Default Is it the Ignition Switch?

My 1995 Jeep Cherokee Sport has been running very well for the year that i've had it. Until today. I've had no issues with the vehicle starting at all. Today I get in after a visit to the store, turn the key and nothing. My first thought was a dead battery. I drove my wifes car to the jeep and hooked up the cables, correctly, and waited about 3-5 minutes. Still nothing. Then I waited about 20 min, nothing.

The dash lights and everything come on, but when I turn the key there is absolutely nothing happening. When I turn to try to start it the dash lights do not dim as usual either.

I know nothing about vehicles and im pretty clueless on this situation. From what ive read it sounds like a bad ignition switch. I dont even know where to begin...Please help.
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Old May 10, 2013 | 11:24 PM
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kjc
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From: Blue Springs, MO
Year: 1993
Model: Grand Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L Laredo
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Automatic? Try wiggling the shifter while turning the key to crank it or try starting it in neutral. If the Neutral Safety Switch (NSS) is bad, it won't start. You can also jump the wires at the solenoid on the starter. (get someone to show you) If the starter spins, you can rule it out as the problem and it'll point you back to the NSS or as you guessed, the ignition switch itself. Post what you find out
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Old May 10, 2013 | 11:43 PM
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Yes, it is automatic. It's still at the store so ill wait until morning. Hoping to have some additional input. Ill post what I find out for sure.
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Old May 11, 2013 | 03:34 AM
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I bet kjc has it right. The NSS is a common cause of this.
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Old May 11, 2013 | 10:24 AM
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I tried wiggling it this morning, and running up and down like another post suggested. Still nothing, the reverse lights come on as well. I read something about that in another post but im not sure what that's a hint to.

No ones available to look at it right now, ill have to wait a bit. I would just like to get it home, and not at the store. Its less than a mile away, if I could just get it started.
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Old May 11, 2013 | 02:41 PM
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I would definitely say its the neutral safety switch
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Old May 11, 2013 | 02:54 PM
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From: Hell, CA
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With the key in the RUN position have you tried using a screwdriver or something similar on the starter to jump the connections and see if it starts?
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