I started my Jeep, drove it a few blocks, then parked it for about 15 minutes. When I tried to start it again, nothing happened. When I turn the key, the radio and lights all come on, but nothing from the starter. I'm a complete novice so bare with me. At the advice of a friend, I tried shifting to neutral and drive and back to park a few times, and nothing happened. Then I turned the steering wheel vigorously from side to side, and then she started right up. Can anyone diagnose this problem for me? I'd like to try to fix it myself, but have a tight budget and don't want to be replacing unnecessary parts. Any ideas? Thanks.

I started my Jeep, drove it a few blocks, then parked it for about 15 minutes. When I tried to start it again, nothing happened. When I turn the key, the radio and lights all come on, but nothing from the starter. I'm a complete novice so bare with me. At the advice of a friend, I tried shifting to neutral and drive and back to park a few times, and nothing happened. Then I turned the steering wheel vigorously from side to side, and then she started right up. Can anyone diagnose this problem for me? I'd like to try to fix it myself, but have a tight budget and don't want to be replacing unnecessary parts. Any ideas? Thanks.

Does it start every time after turning the steering wheel from side to side? Then your IGN switch may not be properly connected. Open up column and check the wiring. Your friend was talking about a neutral safety switch on tranny. I just went through a starting problem myself with '89 XJ. It turned out to be the starter.

Good luck!

Thanks for the response. Actually, I had the problem again this morning... but this time shaking the steering wheel didn't work. Since this is the second time it has happened in two days, I'm ruling out the "freak glitch" and leaning toward something that needs to be fixed. The question is what? Do you think I should check the wiring to the ignition switch first, then replace the switch if needed? Does it sound like the switch is the problem? Thanks again YellowXJ89 for your help.

Before you open up the steering column, check on IGN line on starter first. Starter is located on passenger side of engine right next to oil pan. There are three connections, IGN is the small connection. Take your voltage meter and check the voltage at the small connection. As soon as your friend turn a key to crank, the voltage should go up to 10-12V. Then your IGN switch is working properly and most likely starter is bad.

If you didn't see voltage go up at starter, try checking these relays. If one of them is working, then your IGN switch is okay.

Starter relay - There are 5 relays in a row next to IGN coil. The closest to the Battery is the starter relay. When IGN is turned on or cranked, you could feel the relay turning on.

Main relay - Next to the row of relays (closer to Batter). You could see a cable from Batt+ connected. You could also check it like starter relay.

Good luck!

Thanks for your help YellowXJ89. I've narrowed it down to the starter. I'm going to put a new one in this weekend and I'm betting that will do it. Thanks again.

Just try holding the ignition on and moving the gearshift slightly in park.
It may well be the neutral safety switch.

http://jeepin.com/features/nss/index.asp

If would be a shame to get a new starter if this is all it is.

DM

Diverman-

Thanks for the advice. That was one of the first things I tried before checking everything else. Unfortunately, it didn't help. I put in a new starter this past weekend and everything is working just fine. Thanks for your help, nonetheless.