Jeep Cherokee (KL): Starting procedures

Normal Starting

NOTE: Normal starting of either a cold or a warm engine is obtained without pumping or pressing the accelerator pedal.

Cycle the ignition switch to the START position and release when the engine starts. If the engine fails to start within 10 seconds, cycle the ignition switch to the LOCK/OFF position, wait 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat the "Normal Starting" procedure.

Tip Start Feature

Cycle the ignition switch to START position and release it as soon as the starter engages. The starter motor will continue to run, but will automatically disengage itself when the engine is running. If the engine fails to start, the starter will disengage automatically in 10 seconds. If this occurs, cycle the ignition switch to the OFF position, wait 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat the "Normal Starting" procedure.

Extreme Cold Weather (Below -22F Or −30C)

To ensure reliable starting at these temperatures, use of an externally powered electric engine block heater (available from your authorized dealer) is recommended.

Extended Park Starting

NOTE: Extended Park condition occurs when the vehicle has not been started or driven for at least 30 days.

1. Install a battery charger or jumper cables to the battery to ensure a full battery charge during the crank cycle.

2. Cycle the ignition in the START position and release it when the engine starts.

3. If the engine fails to start within ten seconds, cycle the ignition to the STOP (OFF/LOCK) position, wait five seconds to allow the starter to cool, then repeat the Extended Park Starting procedure.

4. If the engine fails to start after eight attempts, allow the starter to cool for at least 10 minutes, then repeat the procedure.

CAUTION!

To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank continuously for more than 10 seconds at a time. Wait 10 to 15 seconds before trying again.

If Engine Fails To Start

WARNING!

• Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into the throttle body air inlet opening in an attempt to start the vehicle. This could result in flash fire causing serious personal injury
• Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get it started. Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission cannot be started this way. Unburned fuel could enter the catalytic converter and once the engine has started, ignite and damage the converter and vehicle.
• If the vehicle has a discharged battery, booster cables may be used to obtain a start from a booster battery or the battery in another vehicle. This type of start can be dangerous if done improperly. Refer to "Jump-Starting" in "What To Do In Emergencies" for further information.

With Tip Start

If the engine fails to start after you have followed the Normal Starting , "Extreme Cold Weather and Extended Park Starting procedures, it may be flooded. To clear any excess fuel;

1. Press the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and hold it

2. Cycle the ignition to the START position and release it as soon as the starter engages. The starter motor will disengage automatically in 10 seconds.

3. Once this occurs, release the accelerator pedal.

4. Cycle the ignition to the LOCK position, wait 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat the "Normal Starting" procedure.

CAUTION!

To prevent damage to the starter, wait 10 to 15 seconds before trying again.

After Starting

The idle speed is controlled automatically and it will decrease as the engine warms up.