My Grand Cherokee has a new battery but is very slow to start. It sounds like it is cranking very fast / with plenty of power but it has to crank for several seconds before the engine finally starts up. I know this is hard on the starter. What is wrong? What can I do to shorten the cranking time?

Check the fuel pump...

My Grand Cherokee has a new battery but is very slow to start. It sounds like it is cranking very fast / with plenty of power but it has to crank for several seconds before the engine finally starts up. I know this is hard on the starter. What is wrong? What can I do to shorten the cranking time?


hi, try turning the ignition on then wait for about 30 seconds then see if it starts easier. if so your fuel pump maybe leaking down, by waiting after turning key on its letting the fuel pump reprime the fuel rail.
DALE jeepman600@aol.com :evillol:

Dale, correct me if Im wrong, but I was once told a long time ago that if a jeep is normal, it'll bump 7 times before turning over. My GC 5.2 would take less, but I think that theory was for the 6. Just came to mind, it's late and I'm tired so don't ask me to explain...<laughs>

I can almost gaurantee you that your fuel pump is losing pressure. Mine has had the exact same symptoms. I have had the pump replaced three times already on my WJ. These Jeeps are notorious for fuel pumps losing pressure.