1997 Jeep Cherokee Electrical system Problems

“The gauges on the instrument panel started bouncing back and forth, the check engine light came on. I had the code read and it said the coolant temp sensor was bad, changed that still says that sensor is bad. I cannot pass emissions and inspection to get licensed.”

“The vehicle stalls unexpectedly when slowing down or coming to a stop. The check engine light is on, however; the code that comes up is for the ignition which was already repaired and not the issue causing at hand. This malfunction is freakishly common when I look it up online for this make, model, and year. This problem is very dangerous as it may or can cause death or serious injury if in intersection or busy road/highway. Please notify me of any solutions or information on this matter. We have also changed spark plugs as well as wires & coil.”

“1997 Jeep grand Cherokee laredo 4.0l i6 began stalling in 2010 under seemingly random conditions. Replaced several parts (spark plugs, wires, distributor cap & rotor, ignition coil, PCM) over the past four years to no avail. The difference currently is that the stall now only seems to occur at temperatures less than 65-70 degrees f. The colder the environment, the worse stall probability. Colder temps also increase probability vehicle will not start after a stall. Vehicle will always fire up on a cold start. …”

“Headlights while driving were occasionally turning off and on. Side lights remained on and instrument panel lights remained on. Upon investigation for cause, discovered connector on headlight/dimmer switch was melted due to excessive heat buildup. Suspect due to several connectors on dimmer switch were loose adding resistance to the flow of current creating excessive heat in switch and connector. Switch was replaced and problem was resolved. Since the switch provides power directly to the headlights, this creates a potential fire hazard. …”

“Vic display show coolant sensor bad. Online investigations reveal many owners have experienced the same problem over the years. Their trial solutions have ranged from replacing the coolant temperature sensor, the coolant level sensor, replacing connecting wiring to the vic, and to removing the vic to repair solder joints and cracks at the circuit board that is located in the vic. Most report that the first three attempted remedies did not resolve the defect. Some report success in re-soldering joints on the circuit board. …”