2018 Jeep Renegade Won’t Start: Troubleshooting Tips and Solutions
In our fast-paced world, there’s nothing more frustrating than being stranded with a car that refuses to start. Picture this: it’s a crisp morning, you’re running late for an important meeting, and your 2018 Jeep Renegade simply won’t budge.
Panic starts to set in, but fear not! In this guide, we’ll uncover the mysteries behind a stubbornly immovable vehicle.
From cleaning corroded battery contacts to replacing faulty key fobs, analyzing worn-out spark plugs to addressing rodent damage (yes, you read that right), we’ll explore a multitude of potential solutions. So buckle up, dear reader, and let’s dive into the world of troubleshooting that dreaded “won’t start” situation.
2018 jeep renegade won’t start
If a 2018 Jeep Renegade won’t start, there are several potential causes to consider. Firstly, check for battery corrosion and clean the contacts before reconnecting the terminals.
If the key fob battery is weak, replace it or place it close to the start/stop button. A clicking sound and failure to start may indicate a broken starter motor, which should be replaced.
As a temporary fix, hitting the starter motor with a stick or metal tool may start the engine. A dead battery can cause the car not to start, so it should be inspected.
A malfunctioning starter motor, faulty ignition switch, or malfunctioning key or key fob may also be the problem and require repair or replacement. If the battery cannot charge, the alternator may be defective and should be replaced.
A clogged fuel filter or a defective fuel pump can cause starting issues, and both should be addressed. Additionally, check essential fuses for starting the engine, and replace any blown fuses.
Failed spark plugs or loose connections should be addressed by replacing the spark plugs or fixing the connections. If there is evidence of rodent damage, it could be the cause of the starting issue.
Finally, it is recommended to have the car inspected by a professional for comprehensive diagnosis and repair.
Key Points:
- Check for battery corrosion and clean contacts before reconnecting terminals
- Replace weak key fob battery or place it close to start/stop button
- Replace broken starter motor if there is a clicking sound and failure to start
- Inspect and potentially replace a dead battery
- Address issues with malfunctioning starter motor, faulty ignition switch, or malfunctioning key/key fob
- Check and replace clogged fuel filter or defective fuel pump, as well as blown fuses, failed spark plugs, or loose connections; consider rodent damage as a possible cause
Sources
https://www.wheelsjoint.com/jeep-renegade-wont-start-causes-and-how-to-fix-it/
https://www.jeeprenegadeforum.com/threads/no-start-and-all-the-warning-messages.103919/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRoE8DBjYOE
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Jeep/Renegade/2018/electrical/wont_start_wont_turn_over.shtml
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💡 Pro Tips:
1. Check the fuel level: Make sure you have enough fuel in the tank before assuming your Jeep Renegade won’t start.
2. Test the ignition coil: A faulty ignition coil can prevent your car from starting. Have it tested and replaced if necessary.
3. Check the transmission position: Make sure the transmission is in Park or Neutral before attempting to start the engine.
4. Inspect the engine belts: If the engine belts are worn or damaged, they may not be properly transferring power to the starter. Replace any worn belts.
5. Reset the vehicle’s computer: Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for a few minutes, then reconnect it to reset the car’s computer system. This can sometimes resolve starting issues.
1. Corroded Battery Contacts
Battery corrosion is a common issue that can prevent your 2018 Jeep Renegade from starting. The corrosion builds up on the battery contacts over time and creates a barrier between the battery and the terminal. To fix this, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the negative terminal using a wrench to loosen the nut.
- Carefully remove the battery from the vehicle.
- Inspect the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion. This can appear as a white or greenish substance on the metal surface.
- Use a battery cleaning brush or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub away the corrosion. Be sure to wear protective gloves and goggles during this process.
- Once the terminals are clean, rinse them with water and dry thoroughly.
- Reconnect the positive terminal followed by the negative terminal. Tighten the nuts securely.
- Start the vehicle to check if the issue has been resolved.
2. Weak Key Fob Battery
If your key fob battery is weak, it may not have enough power to communicate with the start/stop button. Here’s what you can do:
- Replace the battery in the key fob with a new one. Make sure to use the correct battery type recommended for your specific key fob model.
- If replacing the battery doesn’t solve the problem, try placing the key fob closer to the start/stop button while attempting to start the engine. This can help improve the signal strength between the key fob and the vehicle.
3. Broken Starter Motor
If you hear a clicking sound when attempting to start your Jeep Renegade, it may indicate a problem with the starter motor. Follow these steps to diagnose and address the issue:
- Locate the starter motor, usually found at the bottom of the engine near the transmission.
- Inspect the wiring connections to ensure they are secure and not damaged.
- If the connections appear to be fine, tap the starter motor gently with a stick or a metal tool. Sometimes, a worn-out starter motor can be temporarily revived through this method.
- If the engine starts after tapping the starter motor, it is recommended to have the starter motor replaced by a professional as soon as possible to avoid further issues.
4. Temporary Fix For Starter
In case of an emergency, when the starter motor fails to function and there is no immediate access to a professional repair service, a temporary fix can be employed:
- As a last resort, tap the starter motor forcefully with a stick or metal tool.
- This action may jolt the starter motor into functioning temporarily, allowing you to start the car and drive it to a safe location or an authorized service center.
- However, it is important to note that this is not a permanent solution. A faulty starter motor should be replaced to ensure consistent and reliable starting of the engine.
5. Battery Failure
A dead battery is a common reason why a car won’t start. Here’s what you can do if you suspect a battery failure:
- Have the battery inspected by a professional using a battery tester. They will be able to determine if the battery is still functional or needs replacement.
- If the battery is dead or severely discharged, have it jump-started using jumper cables and another vehicle. This will provide the necessary energy to start your Jeep Renegade.
- Once the vehicle is started, make sure to take it to a reputable service center to have the battery tested and replaced, if needed.
6. Defective Starter Motor
If your Jeep Renegade’s starter motor is defective, you will need to have it repaired or replaced. Here’s what you can do:
- Take your vehicle to a professional mechanic or authorized service center.
- They will perform a diagnostic test to determine if the problem lies with the starter motor.
- If a defective starter motor is identified, it will need to be replaced to restore proper functionality to your vehicle.
Remember, these troubleshooting tips are provided as general guidance. If you are unsure about any of these procedures or if the issue persists after attempting the suggested solutions, it is always recommended to consult a professional for a thorough inspection and accurate diagnosis.
