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- 1). Start the engine. If the engine is not starting listen for a clicking sound. Open the hood and check the battery cables. These are on the top or front of the battery. Grab one and see if you can move it with your hand. If you can then you will need to replace the cables. Also clean the battery posts with a wire brush. The alternator is not charging the battery since they are loose. If it is daytime use the jumper cables and another vehicle to jump the car. Remember red handles on red connectors and black handles on the black connectors. If it is night do not try to drive since the lights will eventually fail and then the engine will cut out.
- 2). Check the battery. If the car is not starting and you have changed the cables then your issue may be the battery itself. Remove the battery. This will require the ratchet. The crescent wrench will hold the square screw on the opposite side of the battery cable connectors. Remove the cables and then the security bracket on the side. Take the battery to a car parts store and have it tested. This will tell you if the battery is bad. If it is, replace it. Put the battery back into the Jeep and secure the security bolts and the cables.
- 3). Turn the key in the ignition. If it is starting and the battery is not holding a charge then you may have a bad alternator. You will be able to tell if it is the alternator by looking at the amp gauge on the dashboard. If you are not charging the gauge will remain on the far left of the gauge. The alternator is located on the front of the engine with a large serpentine belt going around the pulley. This will require professional maintenance to repair.
- 4). Turn the key in the ignition. If the Jeep is not starting and you have done the three previous steps then the problem may be the starter. It is located on the bottom of the engine on the driver's side. It is a long cylindrical part about eight inches long. You can have a friend tap on it to try to get the starter to turn to get it to start the engine, but you will need to get it to a professional as soon as possible since it may not start again. This will require a professional mechanic to replace if you are unfamiliar with working on automobiles.
- 5). Remove the air filter cover and check the air filter. IF the air filter is dirty try to start the Jeep if the Jeep does not start spray a small amount of engine started into the air intake and try to start again. If it does not start you will need to have a professional look at the vehicle.
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