2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Starter Issues – What You Need to Know
You’re having trouble starting your 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee, so you know it’s time to deal with the starter. It can be frustrating when your vehicle doesn’t start, but don’t worry. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee starter issues. We’ll cover the common problems these starters have, how to diagnose the issue yourself, when you need to replace it, and what replacement options you have. With the right information, you’ll get your Jeep starting smoothly again in no time. Whether you plan to DIY or go to a shop, you’ll learn the typical repair costs, how difficult the job is, and tips to make the repair process smoother. Let’s get started and get you back on the road.
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Common 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Starter Problems
Faulty Solenoid
The solenoid is the part of the starter that receives the signal from the ignition to activate the starter motor. If the solenoid malfunctions, the starter won’t engage properly. Signs of a bad solenoid include hearing clicking sounds when you turn the key, the engine cranking slowly or intermittently, or the starter not engaging at all. Replacing the starter solenoid is often an easy fix for this issue.
Battery Problems
If your battery is on its way out, it may not have enough juice to fully power the starter. The starter requires a major power draw to turn over the engine. Try jump-starting your Jeep to see if the starter engages. If it does, it’s probably time for a new battery. An auto parts store can test your battery to confirm if it needs replacement.
Faulty Starter Motor
The starter motor is responsible for physically turning over the engine. If the motor is malfunctioning or worn out, the engine won’t crank at all when you turn the key. Unfortunately, the only fix for a bad starter motor is replacement. On the bright side, a remanufactured starter can work great and costs less than a new unit.
With some troubleshooting, you can likely determine the cause of your starting issues and get your Jeep Grand Cherokee back on the road again. If you get stuck, don’t hesitate to have the pros take a look – it’s better than being stranded with a vehicle that won’t start!
Diagnosing a Bad Starter in a 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
If your Jeep is having trouble starting or won’t start at all, the starter could be the culprit. ###Check the battery first. A dead battery is the most common reason for a no-start. If the battery is good, the next step is to ###test the starter.
Have someone turn the key while you listen under the hood. If you hear a clicking sound but the engine doesn’t crank over, the starter solenoid or starter motor is probably bad.
Check the starter solenoid next. It’s the small cylinder on the starter that the battery cable attaches to. If it’s not activating, it needs replacement.
If the solenoid is working but the engine still won’t crank, ###the starter motor itself is likely bad. The motor spins the flywheel to start the engine. Over time, the brushes and armature inside the motor can wear out or burn up, preventing it from spinning fast enough to start the engine.
Replacing a starter can be difficult, so unless you have experience working on vehicles, it’s best left to a mechanic. They have the proper tools and knowledge to remove and reinstall a starter quickly and safely. Expect to pay between $300 to $500 for a replacement starter and labor costs.
While waiting for repair or replacement, avoid repeatedly trying to start the Jeep, as this can further drain the battery and damage the starter. Keep the battery charged for when the new starter is installed to avoid being stranded with a dead battery on top of the starter issue! With a freshly charged battery and new starter, your Jeep will be back on the road in no time.
Replacing the Starter in a 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
If your 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is having trouble starting or won’t start at all, the starter is the likely culprit. The starter is responsible for starting the engine when you turn the ignition key. Over time and with lots of use, the starter can wear out or fail completely. Replacing the starter yourself can save you time and money. Here’s how to do it:
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Locate the Starter
The starter is mounted low on the engine block, near the transmission bell housing. You may need to jack up the vehicle and support it on jack stands to access the starter. Locate the thick red power cable and smaller control wires attached to the starter.
Disconnect the Battery
Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any sparking. The starter circuit carries a lot of amperage, so this is an important safety step.
Remove the Starter
Remove the mounting bolts that secure the starter to the engine block. There are typically two or three bolts. Have someone support the weight of the starter as you remove the final bolt so it does not fall. Remove the old starter and note the position of any shims for proper installation of the new starter.
Install the New Starter
Install any shims on the new starter as noted from removal. Install the new starter and hand-tighten the mounting bolts. Reattach the wiring to the correct terminals—power cable to the larger threaded post, control wires to the small terminals. Tighten the mounting bolts securely with a socket wrench.
Reconnect the Battery and Test
Reconnect the negative battery cable. Start the engine to ensure the new starter is working properly and not making any unusual noises. Tighten the battery cable clamp securely. Your Jeep Grand Cherokee should now start like new when you turn the key! If it continues to have starting issues, it could indicate another problem with the ignition or engine and is best checked by a mechanic.
Conclusion
So there you have it. If your 2009 Grand Cherokee is having starter issues, the problem likely lies with a faulty starter solenoid or bad starter motor. First check the connections and clean the terminals. If that doesn’t fix it, have the starter tested to determine if it needs to be rebuilt or replaced. With the right diagnosis and repair, you’ll be back on the road in no time. Just be prepared that this can be an expensive fix if the starter needs to be replaced. But now armed with this knowledge, you’ll know what to expect if your Jeep starts giving you grief when you turn the key.
