Chrysler Repair: 00 jeep: clicking sounds from power box, no starter action, grand cherokee limited, clamp connection

Question
hi, i have a 2000 grand cherokee limited and today id went nuts, with no key in the ignition it makes a rapid clicking sound from around the fuse box area, put the key in to start it and the clicking stops, butso does everything else, wont start, no click from the starter, nothing. tried to jump it, nothing. any ideas? i need some help.

Answer
Hi Doug,
It sounds to me like you have either a very low charge on the battery or a short/loose clamp connection such that the voltage on the system is very marginal. The clicking you hear is a relay that has too low a voltage supply to stay closed, and of course trying to start it just exacerbates the problem. How old is the battery compared to it warranty-life? Are the clamps/posts shiny and tightly connected? The battery could have a bad cell/internal loose connection. If you have a voltmeter check the status of the battery, it should be over 12.5V to begin with. If not, charge it or replace it as you see fit.
Roland