07 won't start...

[92fox]

I've had my Liberty since February with no issues at all. Put 8k miles on it in that time, done all routine maintenance and some tune up stuff (spark plugs, air filter, etc.). It's been over 4k miles since I've done anything to it (the oil change at 130k) other than check the oil and drive it. Yesterday, a friend borrowed it. When they came back out to start it, it wouldn't start at all. Everything has power, all lights turn on, horn works, etc. It won't turn over at all, and won't start from being jumped. I took the battery in to have it tested anyways, and was told it's in 100% health still. It will not turn over, and I only hear a very faint clicking when the key is turned, and only when the hood is popped (that's how quiet it is). I cleaned all the terminals, and checked connections and pulled all fuses. Everything seems straight. Also crawled under and looked at the starter and checked the wires going to it, which all seemed tight as well. I'm stumped...any tips?

It's an 07 Sport with the 3.7, 4x4

 

[candpliberty]

Transmission interlock switch? Clutch pedal position switch(if manual) Starter relay? solenoid on starter? Starter? I hope it's not the ignition switch.

 

[candpliberty]

To remove the starter you have to loosen the exaust down pipe so you can remove the front drive shaft. Per factory manual for up to 2006 but the 2007 should be the same.

 

[candpliberty]

Faint clicking = starter solenoid or starter relay.

 

[candpliberty]

Starter relay is in the power distribution center next to the battery.

 

[92fox]

Don't think it's the transmission interlock switch, as I've had problems with it being sticky before and not letting the key come out of the ignition.

It's an auto so not the clutch switch.

Last time I had an ignition switch crap out (on a 91 Prizm), the key spun freely in the ignition slot. Would it do the same thing on my Jeep?

I'm leaning towards starter, solenoid, or starter relay.

 

[92fox]

How do I check the relay?

 

[candpliberty]

To check relay: 1. you could but power to it and check if the secondary circuit closes and opens. You would need some jumpers and a volt/ohm meter. 2. You could have someone turn the switch as to start it while you have your hand on the relay and feel it click. !. would be better, 2. might work.
The solenoid could be checked by running battery power directly to the solenoid. Just be very very careful.

 

[92fox]

Felt the relay clicking when cranked.

 

[candpliberty]

You have to see if the relay is sending power to the solenoid on the starter. Do you have a Volt/Ohm meter?

 

[92fox]

No I don't...

 

[candpliberty]

See how much a new relay costs and pop it in. Shouldn't be that expensive. If it's too expensive, you could jump (with a piece of wire preferably with a couple of spade connectors on each end) terminal 30 and 87 MOMENTARILY to see if the starter will turn. The numbers are printed on the relay and use the corresponding recepticals in the Power Distribution center.If it does turn, you need a new relay. If it doesn't it's your solenoid or starter.

 

[92fox]

Thanks...relay is like $6 so I'm going to be getting one this afternoon.

 

[92fox]

Any way to determine if it's the starter or solenoid if thats what it comes down to?

 

[cplchris]

Any way to determine if it's the starter or solenoid if thats what it comes down to?

use a screwdriver to jump the starter at the posts, if it turns its the solenoid, if it doesn't its a bad starter.

 

[candpliberty]

If you have to drop the exhaust down pipe it might be worth putting in a starter and a solenoid. A quick look at Rock Auto looks like you can't buy just a solenoid. It might be a dealer part. :shakehead:

 

[dude1116]

If you have to drop the exhaust down pipe it might be worth putting in a starter and a solenoid. A quick look at Rock Auto looks like you can't buy just a solenoid. It might be a dealer part. :shakehead:

To get to the start you only need to drop the front driveshaft I believe. Starter and starter solenoid are sold as one part I believe.

 

[candpliberty]

I've never replaced a starter. The factory service manual states loosening the exhaust down pipe.atriot:

 

[92fox]

Put a new relay in with no luck so I guess the next step us a starter?

 

[92fox]

Sounds like a fun time...guess I'm going to pick up a starter tomorrow