Wants to start, so close
 

ok so, i have a 1996 Xj 2 door with 158k. when turn the key, all electrical system works, when i go to start it it doesnt turn over, but i can hear it "trying" if you now what i mean. although it makes more of an electrical noise than mechanical. any thoughts? thanks.

1. Battery connections. Remove the cables, clean them thoroughly. Have your battery "load tested". Any parts store will do this for you for free. Load testing is the ONLY conclusive way of determining battery condition. Just because your dash lights and radio works does not mean that you don't have a battery problem. Starting the engine puts a serious "load" on the battery. Marginal batteries can't handle it.

2. If battery checks out (and only if) take a meter and with the key turned to the ON position, check for voltage at the starter. You should have approximately full battery voltage there. If you don't, you need to start working your way back into the engine bay to find out why (bad cable to starter, grounds, etc).

Good luck and keep us updated!

I'll try the second suggestion in a little bit, I know my battery is good because I took it out of a different good, running xj.

Just a little intermezzo: lol at your sig, you know the classics
"Supreme executive power derives from a mandate from the masses, not from some farcical aquatic ceremony"

Best movie of all time

Starter is toast, reman one is 60 bucks, next paycheck it is then. (I'm a full time student) broke as hell haha