Jeep won't start.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
Model: Cherokee
Jeep won't start.
97 4.0 5 speed. Jeep started acting up with a CEL yesterday. Went out before I could check it. Came back on and the airbag light came on too. Went to turn it off and it ran for about 15 seconds with the key in the off position. This morning, wouldn't start, only cranks. CEL is gone now. Ebrake light is dimly light when the key isn't in. Looking for a place to start as soon as it's light out.
Last edited by Hamburgler7; Dec 7, 2016 at 06:12 AM.
CF Veteran
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,841
Likes: 117
From: In the middle of Minnesota!
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
If the CEL was on (even if it went off) you should have a stored code in your computer. And you are definitely going to want to retrieve that code for clues/guidance on what might be going on.
Would be best to use a code reader or a scan tool if you have access to one of those, but below is a DIY technique that "might" work on your 1997. NOTE: This depends on when your 97 was built; doesn't work on 97s built later in that year.
With that ebrake light being dimly on, not sure but I'd start by refreshing all GROUNDS under the hood as all electrical life starts there.
Good luck and keep us updated!
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Retrieving code technique on OBDII models (1996 and “SOME” 1997 models)
Put the key into the ignition, push down the odometer reset button, then turn the key to RUN with your finger on the button - and then release the button. The odometer will go through 1111111 through 999999, then display the car's serial number. It will then show the 2 digit error codes. A "5-5" will always occur to signal the end of the sequence. Some will flash the "1-2" code indicating a recent battery disconnect even if you haven't done it. Ignore these two codes, and mark down all others.
The 2 digit code using above technique may be helpful, but note that it is not as specific as the full PXXXX code, which is only available using a code reader or scan tool, so I always recommend using the code reader or scan tool if possible. But if you have a CEL and don’t have access to a code reader or a scan tool, try the odometer technique to possibly point you in the right direction until you can gain access to a code reader or scan tool.
Note: The above OBDII odometer technique works only for 1996 and early 1997 model XJs, so while it might work on one 1997 XJ, it might NOT work on another! Once Chrysler made the change during the 1997 build year, for anything built after that date through 2001 you will need either a code reader or a scan tool to retrieve the codes.
Would be best to use a code reader or a scan tool if you have access to one of those, but below is a DIY technique that "might" work on your 1997. NOTE: This depends on when your 97 was built; doesn't work on 97s built later in that year.
With that ebrake light being dimly on, not sure but I'd start by refreshing all GROUNDS under the hood as all electrical life starts there.
Good luck and keep us updated!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retrieving code technique on OBDII models (1996 and “SOME” 1997 models)
Put the key into the ignition, push down the odometer reset button, then turn the key to RUN with your finger on the button - and then release the button. The odometer will go through 1111111 through 999999, then display the car's serial number. It will then show the 2 digit error codes. A "5-5" will always occur to signal the end of the sequence. Some will flash the "1-2" code indicating a recent battery disconnect even if you haven't done it. Ignore these two codes, and mark down all others.
The 2 digit code using above technique may be helpful, but note that it is not as specific as the full PXXXX code, which is only available using a code reader or scan tool, so I always recommend using the code reader or scan tool if possible. But if you have a CEL and don’t have access to a code reader or a scan tool, try the odometer technique to possibly point you in the right direction until you can gain access to a code reader or scan tool.
Note: The above OBDII odometer technique works only for 1996 and early 1997 model XJs, so while it might work on one 1997 XJ, it might NOT work on another! Once Chrysler made the change during the 1997 build year, for anything built after that date through 2001 you will need either a code reader or a scan tool to retrieve the codes.
Last edited by tjwalker; Dec 7, 2016 at 06:58 AM.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
Model: Cherokee
This is light up on the dash all the time even without the key. I get no accessories or anything with it in the on or acc position. I can only crank the engine.
Last edited by Hamburgler7; Dec 7, 2016 at 09:12 AM.