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No key start when hot (outside temp, not engine) (but remote start works fine)

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Old Sep 14, 2018 | 01:23 PM
  #1  
Matt Voran's Avatar
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From: Indianapolis
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
Default No key start when hot (outside temp, not engine) (but remote start works fine)

I have a strange issue, can't find any threads with same situation. Whenever the outside temp is hot(more than 80 degree maybe) the ignition does exactly squat. I think I've narrowed it to electrical issue, seemingly increased resistance due to the higher temp. Here is the interesting part, remote starter works perfectly, every time. Which is nice because I can still drive the thing.

Let it sit in the garage or overnight or even in the shade, key works. It doesn't seem related to engine temp. For example I drove around at night on a cool night with no issues.

I replace the ignition switch and seemed to work for a day or two, and then today same behavior as before.
If not for the fact that remote starter works, I would be looking at lots of other stuff like CPS, NSS, Grounds, battery terminals etc....
Should I be looking at wiring harness that goes into the ignition switch? Any tests I can do with a voltmeter? I'm stumped and out of my depth. Any ideas helpfull

Thanks.

98xj 4.0 210k miles.
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Old Sep 14, 2018 | 02:22 PM
  #2  
jordan96xj's Avatar
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From: Syracuse, NY
Year: 1996
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
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Yes, the very next thing to check is the condition of the ignition switch connector and wires that come out of it. Look for any signs of heat damage, discolored insulation, or melted insulation inside the cavities of the connector. Also, if you can do this while it is hot, see if you can get the key to work while gently moving/tugging the wires at the connector.
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Old Sep 14, 2018 | 07:54 PM
  #3  
Matt Voran's Avatar
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From: Indianapolis
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
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Thanks. Yeah after I posted that is exactly what I did. No amount of wiggling would make it start and then what do you know, I said F it, and put the dash back together and it started working. I'm thinking that something isn't right in that connector. The heat must be making it worse. I'm not real sure how to get wires in and out of the plastic housing though. No sign of discoloration on the wire insulation though.... Probably will start with ground wire, it seems maybe a touch loose....

Thanks for the reply I think I at least have it narrowed to the problem area.
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