Realized yesterday that my 98 xj has a rattling noise coming from the power steering pump area of the engine and soon after my check engine light came on. At work all day for like the next three days, just wanna get an idea of what I'm getting into before I dive in there Monday. Have checked the power steering fluid and made sure all bolts are tight, not sure where to go next. Thanks

 

Pull the code that is causing the CEL?

 

Playbass is correct; there is only one effective strategy when the check engine light comes on. Pull the codes.

For a 98, you'll need either a scan tool or a code reader or bring your XJ to a parts store like Autozone where they will pull the codes for free.

Post the EXACT codes here (not just a description) for comment.

 

You wouldn't happen to have a 2.5 liter engine in your Heep would you?

 

It's a 4.0 engine. I'll head over to autozone on Monday to get the code. Thanks

 

Got the CEL codes. Three came back: P122, P118, P700. P122 is throttle position sensor which I just changed. Light was on before change, off after change, and now back on after rattling started

 

And since getting the codes, jeep has died on me. Engine cranks but doesn't start. Third jeep so I know the issues and luckily my patiences has grown since owning them

 

Sounds like your Neutral Safety Switch (NSS) is faulty.

http://www.bc4x4.com/tech/2010/jeep-...ty-switch-nss/

Try shifting to neutral. Can you crank it over then?

P118 is the Engine Coolant Temp Sensor. Overheating at all, or maybe your sending unit is just bad?

 

No, its not the nss because he said it cranks

 

If the engine is turning over, the neutral safety switch is working. If it isn't working, it will inhibit cranking.

The TPS code that you are getting after you replaced the TPS is troublesome. I'd inspect every inch of TPS wiring and also inspect and thoroughly clean the TPS connector with electrical contact cleaner and a dab of dielectric grease before reconnecting.

The P0118 is coolant temp sensor. Located on the thermostat housing. I'd replace it.

Check for spark. You need to know if you have it.