It may be best to change the starter in your Jeep Grand Cherokee if it is not functioning properly. Worn starters can begin to drag or lock up and not function at all. If your starter is exhibiting symptoms of wear, remove it from the truck and have it tested at an auto parts store. If you need a new one, you can purchase new and rebuilt starters through most auto parts stores and the Jeep dealership's parts department.
Remove the negative battery cable from the battery with a wrench. Isolate the cable end from the battery. Raise the front of your Grand Cherokee off the ground and support it on a set of jack stands.
Locate the wiring harness connections for the starter on the back of the starter solenoid. Remove the heavy gauge cable from the "B" terminal with a wrench, then unplug the connector from the "S" connection by depressing the locking tab and pulling the plug straight out of the solenoid.
Remove the lower mounting bolt on the starter with a ratchet and socket. The lower bolt is on the engine side of the starter. Remove the upper mounting bolt for the starter with a socket and ratchet, working from the transmission side of the starter.
Lower the starter motor out of the engine compartment. Position the new starter in the engine compartment and install the upper mounting bolt. Insert the lower mounting bolt and torque both bolts with a torque wrench. The upper bolt should be torqued to 40 foot-pounds and the lower bolt should be 30 foot-pounds.
Install the larger cable on the back of the starter solenoid onto the "B" terminal, followed by the retaining nut. Tighten the nut with a wrench or socket and ratchet.
Connect the remaining electrical connector to the "S" terminal on the back of the solenoid. Push the plug into the terminal until it clicks and locks in place.
Support the front of your Jeep with a jack, then remove the jack stands from under the truck. Lower the Jeep to the ground and remove the jack.
Reinstall the negative battery cable onto the battery and tighten the retaining bolt with a wrench or socket and ratchet. Test the starter by turning over the engine.
