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Nothing happens when trying to start

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Old Feb 25, 2014 | 12:03 AM
  #1  
XJheepheroXJ's Avatar
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Year: 1989
Engine: straight six
Default Nothing happens when trying to start

Hey everyone,

I went to go start my 89 cherokee but it wont even try to turn over.
The lights work but nothing happens when i turn the key. radio wont turn on, i don't hear a clicking noise when i turn the key either.

I thought that it could be the starter so i took it to get tested and it passed...

I am wondering if it could be the ignition switch.

Does anyone have any other ideas or if it sounds like the ignition switch could be bad?

Thanks!
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Old Feb 25, 2014 | 01:05 AM
  #2  
Roler's Avatar
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From: Australia
Year: 1997 (RHD)
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0 ltr
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Automatic right? Tried starting in neutral yet? Have access to a multimeter? Verify your battery voltage for starters...

Last edited by Roler; Feb 25, 2014 at 01:08 AM.
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Old Feb 25, 2014 | 02:31 PM
  #3  
Windsor 90 Laredo's Avatar
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Check the lower green wire connection to the starter relay. Wiggle it, try to start. Or put key in on position and touch spade connector to the positive batt. Terminal to start it. I'm talking about the relay that has several connections to it and is close to the battery. At least on my 90 xj that's how it's set
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Old Feb 25, 2014 | 02:34 PM
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I had the same issue. Also good to check all the batt. And starter connections. Good luck
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Old Feb 25, 2014 | 07:47 PM
  #5  
XJheepheroXJ's Avatar
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Year: 1989
Engine: straight six
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I will check the connections later tonight.

It is a five speed also.

Thanks
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Old Feb 25, 2014 | 08:52 PM
  #6  
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From: Quincy, Illinois
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
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Sounds like it could be the safety switch on the clutch. Try slamming the clutch down harder than usually and then try to start it.
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Old Feb 25, 2014 | 09:37 PM
  #7  
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From: Bakersfield CA
Year: 1990
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
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Accessories are usually the first to go when the ignition switch starts to fail... radio, fan cigarette lighter. You can get a look at it if you contort with a flashlight w/o having to drop the column. Look for a melted plug.
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