Maybe I'm over thinking this. I have a 1997 Grand Cherokee with a starting issue. When I turn the key I just get a quick clicking and the lights dim and there is no crank. Then there is a very fast clicking sound that sounds like its coming from under the passenger dash. It will not stop unless I turn the key to the start position, and it usually comes back when I release it. It will continue, forever I assume, unless I turn the key from off to start several times and it eventually stops. Battery and its connections check out fine. I have tried tapping the starter, but only a little because it was raining. I can move the shifter back and forth but that has no effect.

What am I looking at?? Starter? Solenoid? NSS? Starter relay? Ground or other battery connection? Hoping I missed something really simple. Any help is appreciated!


I don't have vehicle malfunctions. I have vehicle dysfunctions. The difference is it happens because the vehicle knows its me!

 

have u jumped it?

 

also manually jump the starter.

I use jumper cables on the battery with one end

the other will be grounded to the body (use the LCA bolt) then tap the lead on the starter.

make sure that:

1) the e brake is on and it is in park
2) chock the tires.


if it starts it is a battery cable issue, if it still clicks you have a battery issue or a relay issue

 

That's one of the plans for tomorrow, if I can squeeze it in.

 

If it starts after tapping with a hammer...it's a sticking bendix.

 

I am assuming that means starter and not breaks? Would that cause the constant clicking...even with the key out?

 

You need a battery. Stop over thinking it.

 

That was the first thought but the battery tested strong.

 

1)battery cables... they can corrode on the inside.

or

2)relay... try swapping it in the underhood relay box with a known good one (there is one or two with the same part number)

or

3)starter itself.. can be tested for free at most auto parts stores

 

I was hoping for "Hey dummy! Its ...." But you're probably correct. Start at the battery and work my way down.

So much for the easy answer. HA!! Thanks!

 

when your lights dim. will the clicking slowly stall out to a hault? its a groud wire. had the same problem. mine was the a/c compressor ground. and tighten your terminals to. another problem i had at the same time.