Fitba101

Hey guys, the repair shop wants $320 to replace the starter on my 08 jk unlimited. That sounds like a rip to me. I've never replaced a starter before, but im willing to give it a shot. Anyone know how easy it is. Pics/ info is much appreciated.

08YELLO-RUBI

Maybe I'm wrong but isn't it covered under the warranty?

Fitba101

It would be covered. but i'm past the 36000 mile warranty that came with it, and it's not covered in the powertrain warranty

ZMagic97

I don't think it would be bad. I haven't taken it out, but there's a decent amount of room under there. Compared to my 79 Camaro, should be a cake job.

Also, are you sure it's the starter and not a bad battery or relay? Just figured I'd throw it out there.

Fitba101

Pretty sure it's not the battery, since I just stuck a new optima yellow top in it about 2 weeks ago. I guess it could be the relay, but I was told the starter was more likely the culprit.
How would you check to see if it was the relay though?

ZMagic97

When you try and start it, if you hear a rapid clicking and the starter does nothing, then it's either a relay or battery. Could always try and jump it from another vehicle in case you got a bad battery (not likely, but possible). New relay shouldn't be much either. Also, you could check the connections first, make sure it's just not loose, rusty, or dirty.

OH9JK

You have an automatic right? Check the neutral safety switch. See if you can start the jeep in neutral rather than park.

Fitba101

Thanks for the help guys!

ZMagic97

So, was it the starter?

Fitba101

Nope. It ended up being the neutral safety switch as you mentioned. Thanks a lot for the help man, you saved me a few hundred bucks.