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Jeep Cherokee 1984-2001: How to Replace Starter

It's not uncommon for a starter to fail. This article will show you how to replace it.

By Jared Hammond - September 11, 2015
Contributors: storm101

This article applies to the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001).

We usually don't think to replace the starter until after replacing the battery, and everything else that could be preventing your Jeep from starting. But if you turn the key and you don't hear the click of the starter, it could mean that the starter itself is the problem. This is not uncommon because the starter is located below the oil filter where oil and debris can fall on it. Unfortunately, the only way to fix it is to get a new starter, and maybe a cover to go over it as well.

Materials Needed

  • Replacement starter
  • Ratchet with socket set and extension
  • Jack and jack stands

Step 1 – Lift the Jeep and disconnect battery

Lift the Jeep using your jack and set it on four jack stands. After that, open the hood and disconnect the negative (black) cable on your battery.

  • Figure 1. Set the Jeep on jack stands.
  • Figure 2. XJ battery location.

Step 2 – Remove old starter

Locate the starter below the oil filter. If you can't find it, follow the red positive cable from your battery that directly connects to the starter. Attached to the starter, you will see the large battery cable and a smaller wire. Disconnect both wires by unbolting and unhooking them from the starter terminals. After that, there are two bolts you need to remove: one on the top and one on the bottom of the starter.

Figure 3. Starter wire terminals.

Pro Tip

Be careful removing the starter because it is pretty heavy and if you drop it on yourself, it could cause an injury.

Step 3 – Install new starter

Take your new starter and install it where the old starter was mounted. Tighten down the two bolts, then attach the battery cable and wire to the starter terminals. Tighten down the bolts for the terminals, so that the wires will not come loose from the terminals. Reconnect your battery and try starting the engine. If it still does not start, then you likely have a problem with your ignition switch or possibly a bad wire.

Figure 4. Starter mounting point.

Featured Video: Jeep Cherokee Starter Replacement

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