2003 Wrangler starting problem

[keysjeep]

2003 wrangler-2.4, 4 cylinder, manual transm. Won't start everytime. Usually starts just fine, but sometimes it just "clicks" once and nothing else happens. If we continue to try and start it, usually starts after 4 or 5th turn of the key. Replaced the starter and solenoid, but nothing changed. Any ideas?

We checked the battery and connections first. Everything is OK with the battery and terminals.

 

[KrazyJeeper]

What about the battery? Bad Connection, terminals need cleaning?

 

[Magua308]

Check your ignition switch, as long as all the battery terminals and connections to the starter are clean, I would bet it is the ignition switch.

 

[JeepMonkey]

Battery cables are lose or corroded. The battery could also be dying. I had the same problem on my '01 and have since changed the battery and not had the problem again.

 

[redrooster]

Battery, cables or connections. That should have been the first thing you checked. Chalk it up as an expensive lesson learned.

 

[keysjeep]

Thanks for the comments on the battery and connections. That was the first thing we did. Everything checked out fine. The problem is somewhere else.

 

[redrooster]

How about the ground wire to the frame? Is the clock or presets on the radio losing memory?

 

[Jeepr]

clutch safety switch. Where is the clicking? Is it a relay or solenoid? I don't remember if thr YJ has it under the dash or in the power supply box under the hood.

 

[Gsx31337]

Ive had that same problem before from time to time, mines an auto and If I slide it into nutrual it will start right up.

 

[pilgrimninja17]

Mine sputters time to time also, i lightly pump the gas when starting up, ofcorse it's in neutral