What is your question?
I’ve had to jump my car 3 times in the past 2 weeks. When I get in the car, the lights turn on but when I try to start it, the brake is stiff and the engine won’t turn on. I tried to jump the battery today and the engine wouldn’t turn. I’m not sure if it’s the battery, starter, or alternator. When I try to start the car without a jump it, the engine either won’t turn or it clicks.
What makes this problem better or worse?
Better: Jump start / Worse:Car being in the cold
How long has your 2019 Jeep Cherokee had this problem?
2 weeks
1 Reply
Hey, my name is Dusty, and I'm one of the auto experts with RepairPal's Car Genius team. I'm here to help! Given the symptoms you're describing, there are a few possibilities, but it's essential to understand that diagnosing the exact cause requires a thorough examination. The fact that you've had to jump-start your car multiple times in the past two weeks suggests an electrical issue with the starting and/or charging systems. If the battery is old or has a bad cell, it might not hold a charge properly, even after jumping. Also, if the lights turn on, and you can hear a clicking sound when trying to start the engine, a weak or failing battery is likely, but a problem with the starter isn't out of the question. Additionally, if the alternator isn't charging the battery properly while the engine is running, the battery could drain quickly, leading to repeated jump-starts. The complexity of these issues highlights why getting a professional diagnosis is essential. Simply replacing parts without understanding the root cause can lead to wasted time, money, and continued frustration. A professional technician can thoroughly test the battery, starter, and alternator to pinpoint the exact cause of your starting issues and provide a reliable solution. This way, you can avoid the guesswork and ensure your vehicle is back to running smoothly and reliably. If you have any other questions or would like help finding a RepairPal Certified shop in your area, call us! 877-913-1554