What is this and why is it getting so hot?
 

Under my steering wheel there is this little metal "plug" and it is getting hot. I cannot hold it longer than a second, because it is too hot. And my vehicle hasn't been running since 24 hours.


https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.che...91ab50c250.jpg

pretty sure its the turn signal relay (how many pins does the plug have?)

If it is, it might be aftermarket - my 98' has a square one, and I am pretty sure my friends 95' has a square one also.

Can I just unplug it? It is not doing anything? I mean it is getting hot

It is likely the thermal time delay relay for the illuminated ring around your ignition switch (possibly controls something else, too; not sure). It is designed to get hot--that's how it works. It turns on whenever you open your door. It stays on until it reaches a certain temperature at which point it turns off. http://www.jeepersden.com/2889565-th...9-rear-brakes/

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https://i1040.photobucket.com/albums...ungm61/189.jpg

On my 96, that cylinder gets hot when the interior map lights are on (door open).

It's not designed to be hot after the car hasn't been touched for 24 hours.

On the other hand, Mauz, what were you doing when you found it? If you've had the doors open for a while, it will be hot. Close the doors and leave it alone for an hour or so. Then open the door and get under there quickly and see what it's doing.