This has happened three times in the last month. I go out to start a cold Jeep (JK) and the key gets stuck in the forward/starting position where it will just stay and click as if trying to start. Once I turn it back off and re-crank it, its fine. I did notice that the ignition seems a little loose but maybe it is supposed to be that way I don't know. One variable here is that I am using a "Rock" key that I bought from Quadratec and had cut at a local locksmith. I have been using that key for about 3 months though with no problems. Anyone else experienced this or have any thoughts and ideas? I do have an appointment for it on 12/05/07 at the dealer.

 

Occasionally, my starter will turn for at least 2 or 3 seconds more than the 1 second usually needed to start the engine. no idea why.

 

my jk is having the same issue..atleast once or twice a week i go to start it..and it turns over for about 2-3 seconds before starting..havent had time to take it in..but it does worry me a bit..anyone heard anything about this being common? or any ideas why it is happening?

 

There is a TSB for that. Mine did this until I took it to the dealer. After the TSB was done this has not occurred again.

 

Check to make sure that your key is not bent. Even a slight misalignment can cause problems. I know, I bent mine!

 

I thought you needed to use the jeep key they give you due to the passive starter disable chip inside the handle of the key?

 

So eliminate the variable. Go back to the OEM key, if it still happens, not the key. If problem is gone, then it is the key.

 

I have an appointment at the dealer on 12/05/07 because of the weather stripping around the front passenger door coming off, so I called and added this to the check list for them. If they don't find an obvious problem, I will go back to the OEM key for a while and see what happens. Regardless, I will re-post and let yall know what I find out.

 

You can buy one of the Jeep Keys in Quadratec for it, you just need to make sure you get the one with the transponder in it. There are instructions on how to program the new key to work with your Jeep.

 

I don't see how a key would be the issue? You sound like you're trying to say the starter engages to turn over, but gets stuck?

I would guess it was the starter.

Mentioning the cold weather, how cold is it? Some older batteries (don't know if it's true for new ones) need to be warmed up a little before they have enough juice to turn an engine over. I say, turn the lights on for a minute first, to get the battery warmed a little, then try cranking it?

Also, do you have a stick? Maybe the lockout for the clutch depress is faulty?