Ok, 1999 4.0 here. I jumped in my XJ (warm engine) and went to start it. Started then cut out after 2 seconds. The amber little key didn't come up on the dash so I didn't suspect a key problem. Also, the only light on the dash was the airbag light and the gauges wouldn't come up. I disconnected the battery to try and reset the computer. Still had the same problem. While I was waiting for a ride, slowly the locks started randomly locking and unlocking, then clicking from the dash, then the back hatch lock was going crazy and the horn made a little chirp!!!!! I had to disconnect the batt ground to make it stop. I also read while waiting that it could be the Cam shaft position sensor. So i disconnected it. Then I reconnected everything and it started!!! I said sweet! Cut the car off.....that was stupid. Wouldn't restart and started doing the same thing again. Waited a while. Plugged and unplugged a combination of the battery and the sensor then it started! (unplugged) I drove it home and plugged in the sensor in the driveway. Kept running. Now it starts without a problem but I'm scared to drive it anywhere and i'm not so sure that it was the sensor in the first place... is it normal for that sensor to be causing all the wackyness that was going on with the locks and the dash? Any other ideas on what it could be? Thanks!

 

keyless entry ? pull youre dome light and disconnect the wires thats where the keyless entry module is located


the started and shut off thing sounds like the key immobilizer if the key is worn out and you have a less worn out key try another key if you do have the immobilizer type key and you try and start it 3 times and it shuts off thats it you are locked out (as in the system thinks you are stealing it, and it wont start and run anymore no matter what you do) and it has to get towed to dealer to be "unlocked"

what does youre key look like is the remote built into the key


this might explain it better
http://jeepsunlimited.com/forums//sh...d.php?t=464089


and some other sites
http://www.google.com/search?q=new+k...hrome&ie=UTF-8

 

Sounds like a classic immobilizer issue. I had no idea that was even offered on XJs! Your CMP sensor won't affect any of that stuff mentioned.

 

A defective Security Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) will create havoc with the CCD Data Bus, resulting in all kinds of strange activity. The SKIM is mounted on the streeing column and connected to the ignition switch/key.

 

Can you post a picture of your key?