Sadly the new DeWALT DCL050 light worked well for the job, it is not "camera friendly." The flicker did not show up until I was editing. It makes the frame rate look really slow. Thought I'd throw this up here before I got thousands of comments. Guess I'll be throwing it on the back burner in future vids. Good thing DeWALT is #notasponsor...
Anyone who complains about the minor light flicker due to refresh/frame rate can kick rocks. It ain't that big of a deal and it ain't a problem IMO. We are here to watch your process & procedures not to worry about "oh no the light is flickering waah waah waah". 🤦♀️🤣 Keep on keepin on, Eric & SMA.👍😊
A friend with a 2004 Liberty called me today. Car cranked once, wouldn't crank again. 278,000 miles. I was fairly sure it was a dead starter. But.. I watched a few videos including this one before heading out. While I enjoyed the video, it seemed unlikely it would be this failure. I then left with tools and a replacement starter in hand. Ironically, I followed almost the same steps. Pulled the relay, jumped the terminals, the starter cranked but engine wouldn't fire. Then I went to try again and noticed the key rotation felt a bit odd. Then I knew. It had to be a broken actuator. A quick trip to Harbor freight for the security bits, and I had the car running. Thanks Eric for the solid diagnostics. It saved me a lot of work. A personal note. I have been working on my own cars since I was 19. I am 57, now. Other than tires and windshields, I do my own work. And, while I think I am a pretty good shade tree mechanic, I have learned a lot by watching you work for better than a year now. Better methods, better tools, better understanding of the available resources (like factory schematics and pinouts), etcetera. I have become a better and faster mechanic as a result. I appreciate your work ethic and the attention to detail as well. I will continue watching as long as you continue publishing. Thanks.
Watched this earlier when trying to troubleshoot why the wife's jeep wouldn't start. Saved me a CRAP TON of money and helped me tremendously to replace the switch in short order. Went quickly and no problems. TYVM for the instructional video.
I showed my husband this video and I'm glad i did...because my car is now working. Thanks for taking the time to post for those willing to learn... Greatly appreciated!!!!
I actually put words to that effect on a job application once where they wanted a 'personal statement'. I got the job but I turned it down because 1) not only would I not want to work anywhere that wants personal statements but 2) I wouldn't want to work anywhere so desperate that they would have me.
Greetings from England. I thought I was hearing things, but no, you actually called the metal ALUMINIUM! Wow. Next time you're over here I'll happily buy you a pint of warm best bitter beer.
That shimmer on the light is the pulse width modulation used to control the intensity. The Astro light uses a linear technique so there's no flicker at all.
To the kind man in this video, this is what was wrong with my no start Jeep Liberty. Thank you for saving the day from a miserable and costly bill at the jeep stealership. God bless you and your family
Nice to see you miss Marie! You were in rare form in this video. Speaking as someone old enough to be your grandfather or just about, the young man that catches your eye and more importantly your heart will be blessed. Eric O another fine example of troubleshooting. Right off the bat you said it didn't feel right. A lot about cars is listening and feel. I had a piece of my torque converter break off on Interstate 40 near Little Rock Arkansas. I could hear it driving down the road I had the car towed to a hotel where we spent the night. And then I took it to Aamco! Transmission transmission people what could go wrong? Numbnuts said I needed a valve job! I asked him nicely to close the hood of my car. It was obvious to anyone with a half brain the noise was coming from the bellhousing. So I took it to another shop and they couldn't hear anything. Finally I found an old timey Exxon station! Had a guy about 55 or so and I told him I tale of woe. He came outside and said startup can we pop the hood. He looked at me and said you heard that going down the road at 60 miles an hour? I said sure did. I hit the rest area just to the west of Little Rock and I could tell it was coming from the bellhousing and didn't feel it was safe to drive. He replied I'm amazed you even heard it. Show up on the lift my car went drop the transmission and a chunk of torque converter fill out. it's the part that connects the torque converter to the front pump on the transmission. Mechanic looks at me and says I've been in this business for 35 years and I've never seen this before. He couldn't get the part on a Saturday so I was there until Monday afternoon. if you pay attention to your car it'll talk to you. Either to feel or sound
I had a 1975 AMC Matador Wagon with the 258 six and Mopar torqueflite transmission . At 99 K the neck of the torque converter snapped and a chunk of metal broke off . I was younger and pulled it out in the street . No trans. jack. I dropped it on my chest . It was a surprise . I had done the 4 speed manuals that way. But the automatics are HEAVIER . It is easier on a floor jack . But the not on FWD. You really need trans. jack . I did one with a floor jack - NEVER AGAIN ! Too heavy and off balance .
Amazing how quick you can diagnose the problem that other shops can’t. You make repairs so quick and easy, makes it look like kids play.. THAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
Had this exact problem in my 2003 Jeep Liberty - I was able to get it home by bypassing the starter relay but only right after the key was in run position. The part was about $60 and every parts store had it in stock. Thanks this saved me.
I use to own an 04 Liberty. It was a good little vehicle, had it for 12 years before the engine developed oil pressure problem to the lifters. Never did figure out what was causing that but suspected a poorly designed crankcase ventilation that lead to plugging up the oiling passages. Amazing you were able to get those parts and pieces for the switch on this one. Another excellent video, thanks Eric.
I've heard the 3.7L V6 in them wasn't the greatest, but I've known several people to get 200k+ miles out of their Jeep Liberty's without any issues. A lot of it boils down to whether the vehicle was maintained properly or not.
That’s what kinda made me really mad about ours was I changed the oil every 3000 miles. Trans service 3 times in a 124,000 miles, cooling system flushed twice in same mileage along with a complete tune up at 75,000 miles. I’m anal about maintenance on my vehicles. We had the lifters lose oil pressure at 124,800 miles. Of course one of the rocker fell of when this happened. I tore down the heads and had a complete valve job, new lifters, new everything. Lasted two months and lifters lost pressure again. Traded it in after that.
Wes Hawkins I still own a 2003 Jeep Liberty that I have owned for 15 years and meticulously and regularly maintained it. Still had to completely tear down and rebuild the engine at 119,000 miles because of poor engine ventilation causing oil passages to plug up and cause loss of oil pressure. It's been a great vehicle other than that and the oxygen sensors, transmission problems, rear differential issues, transfer case problems, suspension and ball joint failures...oh wait, it might be easier to list what I HAVEN'T had problems with, lol
T Mac You certainly have had more trouble with yours than we had with ours. I did have to replace the lower ball joints and the rear upper track bar. Other than that normal early maintenance. I never follow manufacturer suggest intervals. I always figure there intervals are extended for the purpose of selling parts and repair work. That theory has always extended my vehicles life until the Jeep Liberty.
GM Kof hard Scotty hates Jeeps and all FCA cars. He’s like a complaining gold man, never happy unless he’s bitching. I always give his videos a dislike after watching a minute or two.
Appreciate the troubleshooting steps. In the end I had the exact same problem, but it was nice to have a bit more confidence before pulling the ignition apart.
Eric teaching Marie how to hotwire a car: Marie: "I don't think this is how you do it." Eric: "What do you mean? How are you gonna run from the cops with this ball joint flopping around. First we gotta fix it. Then we have to take it for a drive cycle. And then we put it back exactly where we found it." Marie: "You're the worst car thief ever."
I have an '05 and waiting for you to diagnose what sounds like a front wheel bearing, 4X4, but after replacing noise still there. Love your diagnosis, and speed at which you go after it. Helps save the customer money on labor considering it is more then the part on this fix. Unbelievable the engineering that goes into a simple start switch.
Not with this one, I've had my liberty for 17 years and only put about two grand into non-routine maintenance. Almost all of that went to fixing the fcussing windows. Mind you, I do all the work myself.
Knowledgeable, straight to the point, and humorous. Love it. After watching this video, I felt like I actually learned something! Thank you for taking the time
Ford problem too...except in my 88 F250 it was a z-shaped rod that was in the column that actuated the actual start circuit...Disassemble the whole steering column to change it, 5 cents in aluminum and an hour of tearing apart the column to get to it. Not a bad repair just annoying due to all the crap you have to remove first.
Lol never had an issue like this on any of my jeep or my current 2007 liberty. I remember going down the road with my buddy in his Ford Ltd and the colum literally started on fire. Also...gm ingnitions??
I’ve done two of them. A Chrysler 300 and a Jeep Liberty. Seems like a fairly common issue due to a shitty design. That little sliver breaks off and you’re fubared.
It's not only Chrysler/Jeep with this sort of problem. As an example - I've diagnosed and replaced many ignition switch 'lock housings' over the years on 08-12 Ford Escapes for 'no start' conditions. It's a more time consuming job on those cars (steering wheel has to come off, column partially torn down), the part is more expensive (~$95), and equally as likely (if not more so) than the Chrysler part to fail and leave the owner with a no start condition. Similar deal on GM products such as the 1st generation Chevy Colorados.
I admire how you always attempt to take the high road, and do complete analysis before making the call and repair. Greatest work ethic! Also, a kudo to the repair shop for getting a second opinion. Of course, they know "if in doubt, give it to Dr. O"!!
Great video on the no starter concern. Also, good choice on the ignition cylinder "part" vs. a new cylinder assembly as I believe you have to code the key etc. which is another expense avoided. Lucky that piece of pot metal got noticed when it did changing the initial direction for parts needed. Best of all in this video, No collateral damage to those cheap plastic parts and tabs. This is something that many mechanics fail to prevent as they man handle older and brittle vehicle parts.
Was the part just called the ignition switch? And do you by any chance know the part #? I am in the middle of the same situation with my brothers 06 liberty. Same piece broke and all. Got it out. But don't know what to ask for at the parts store?
Wow, i can't believe that i found this video! My accessories had stopped working about 3 weeks ago and then yesterday it wouldn't start at all. I followed your instructions and the exact same piece of metal was broken. You saved me a lot of money and headache! You sir are the best! Thank you sooooooo much!
Love the vids. So informative. Sometimes too much...haha. You sir, are the only person besides one of my favorite high school teachers, Mr. Leggett, to use the phrase ... "Quick like a bunny." I'm 51 years old, so you know if it's still in my head it's a great phrase. And are the only person other than my wife to use the word ... SLICKERY. She uses it to describe her favorite quality in pajamas.
Thanks for the video. Had the same problem and solution on my 2007 Liberty, broken cast metal bit on the shaft extending into ignition switch. Local O'Reilly's had the ignition actuator pin in stock, so must be used in many years and Chrysler models and prone to failure. Replaced and all back to normal. South Main saved me a lot of money and time.
Thanks for posting an honest and real video of your solving the problem. I really enjoyed your attitude, your helper's comments, and best of all, that you fixed the problem!
I had a '93 Plymouth Voyager that suddenly wouldn't start and I tracked it down to the internals of the switch had broke. I went to replace it and found a real small security torx screw holing everything together. It was smaller than the T-10 that you had though. It was smaller than anything I had. I had to search around until I found the proper size and I believe it was a T-6. I had never seen one that small before. The good thing was that even though the problem was in the switch and not the lock cylinder, I was still able to start it with a screw driver. I pulled the switch and kept it tucked up under the dash for a little bit (took the dremel tool to the security torx screw to get it off) and pulled the switch out to start it and turn it off. That way no one would see it pulled apart like that. I then went to the junkyard and got another screw and replaced the switch with a new one. Didn't trust getting one from the junkyard.
When you really think about it, it's amazing that they can sell a decent car for $20k with all the "kibbles and bits" they have to design, manufacture, and assemble into them. All that was just to turn the ignition switch!
Well "decent" would mean it doesn't have so many problems afterward. I think a lot of the designs need to go back to more basic configurations honestly. Oh and it is a Jeep so quality doesn't apply here.
Economies of scale. They probably used that same assembly across multiple models for a number of years. Make millions of them, price per piece becomes quite low.
if they still made cars for $10k, I'd agree. $20k? outrageous for what they deliver, really. I think you either work for UAW or know someone who does :p When a FRS/86/BRZ is considered the entry sports car for $25-35k ... when we used to have CRX even inflation adjusted for 12-16k ... we have a problem. For $20k, the damn thing should be good for 10 years or more, even in Avoca, but no, rusted out body and frame with tons of sensors and bits breaking. You are always overpaying for crap for most of the vehicles they are selling to you new these days. Then you find stuff from the past decades still running strong because they were built before they designed them to break just after warranty coverage. Keeps Eric busy though, and feeding us videos :p
Eric, Another great video and fix - thank you! Its funny that you are fixing a broken Jeep and Ivan at PHAD is fixing a broken Jeep and the youtube commercial is trying to sell me a Jeep! SMA#1 God bless Paul
Much thanks from another person you have helped. I had the same bit of aluminum fall out which allowed me to skip all the diagnosing stuff (I had already jumped the starter). Fun bit: I used a screwdriver to start the Jeep just as you did just to double check that it would start but for whatever reason my smooth brain didn't log that bit of information properly and I still walked the 3 mile round trip to the parts store. I realized my error about 3/4 of the way there but hey, it's a nice day out and I needed the exercise.
Back in my younger days, we called that pot metal. Not sure it’s really aluminum just because it’s soft and silver. I think it’s just mysterious metal found on the ground in China. Tooth fillings, ear rings, old crashed American or Japanese planes, bomb fragments.
Hi, Eric. I am enjoying the trip through the past with SMA. This episode was intriguing. True detective novelette! Ya otta make it into a movie! Oh, ya did that already. Mystery, action, suspense... You have it all. Oh yeah, a sweet helper and humor too! What a life, you lucky dog. Thanks for sharing! Stay Healthy!
I have to say Mr. O, your troubleshooting skillz are masterclass level. I had something similar, no crank no start on a 2007 Mercedes. I had an independent European shop who works on these cars, car was in the shop for more than a week, not they were busy, but came into the conclusion that it was my ECM and that I needed a new one. They got it to start, but now it was intermittent and that I still would need a new ECM. Bought a new one from Mercedes for an arm and leg, but the issue is still present. I spoke to the mechanics about it and was just baffled by the issue. Needless to say, they had no clue. Got a refund and the non starting car back. What I'm trying to say is they didn't make a sound troubleshooting effort. Wish they had at least 1/4 of your troubleshooting process.... Just saying. Keep up the great work.
I always love guessing before I watch the video what the problem might be. I honestly was thinking this was going to be another Jeep Computer failure. Glad to see it was something reasonable!
great video - good camera angle and instruction as always! Don't think I will ever do that job however it's good troubleshooting skills to learn! As always, another great video!
Excellent video! I feared I had the same issue and bought the part needed and some safety torx bits, and about a half hour later, she runs again. I knew exactly what I needed to do from watching your video. Same occurred with me, as soon as I popped off the ignition switch, a piece of metal had fallen to the floor off the end of the actuator pin. Thanks a million!
Easy way to tell if something is a common failure...see if dorman makes it. Not 100% fool proof but pretty close. I'd order dealer parts. Especially electrical parts. Their hard parts are ok mostly but i have been burned on them a few times too.
Yesterday this came up on my feed - watched with interest, never encountered this problem before - had Jeeps for 30 years. This morning my Liberty (Cherokee here in UK) would not start, or crank - opened it up to find it was exactly the same piece broken as this video - seriously spooked !
Great diagnostic skills there Eric. Fiddly job, as you get older you get less flexible which makes it tough going to get under stearing columns and dashboards. Though you're still like a Ninja at this.
I teach IT at San Jacinto College in the Houston area. I caught myself saying enhance, enhance, enhance when I was showing my students a close up of a computer component yesterday......
THANK YOU!! I have the same vehicle (just purchased it), with the exact same problem. I was prepared to go ahead and try to change the neutral safety switch which is up inside the transmission and a horrible job. But thanks to your video I was able to diagnose the problem (by finding no power to the blue and pink wire). My problem is actually the cylinder not turning all the way to start but it makes no difference, without your video I would have been completely lost. I can now drive the vehicle, starting it with a screwdriver, until I get a new key and lock cylinder set. So thank you so much your videos are not only informative, they are highly entertaining as well. As soon as I get a few extra bucks I will definitely order a hat. So again thank you.
Eric, I'm halfway thru this video, and i'm thinking that the actuator pin is broken. Also, the brake shift interlock is right there when you were looking at the underside. FYI for those who don't know- The actuator pin is a shaft that is between the key cylinder and the ignition switch. It's getting pretty common to see them breaking on Chrysler Corp products of the early to late 2000's vintage. EDIT; Just got done watching the rest of it, good job! That part where the screw for the ignition switch goes into is pretty fragile. Have seen a few PT Cruisers with that part broken and the switch moving around, making it difficult to start the engine. That part breaks, have to replace the column.
David B. Fishburn I’ve done two of them. A Chrysler 300 and a Jeep Liberty. Seems like a fairly common issue due to a shitty design. That little sliver breaks off and you’re fubared.
I'm a Chrysler dealer tech myself, have done quite a few. I agree that it is a shitty design. The older Saginaw steering column was a better design, aside from the bearing issue on the tilt versions.
Your video was on point! I followed your instructions to the T and I was surprised to see the piece of metal drop to the floor just like in your video. That was nice because I knew right away what the problem was. Thank you, you saved me a bunch of money. The part cost me a hundred dollars and about an hours time. If anyone has this problem, first make sure your battery is good, test your starter and then this video.
You are the coolest and the most original mechanic that i had watched ! Thank you for all the great help with Jeep's. I manage to solve several problems by myself with input that you gave. Thank you very much. These days training to solve this "no start/no crank" problem. Best
Had to watch just to see if your cylinder actuator was broken like the 1st 1 I ever did, was. After I took the lower cover off, all the 'bits' hit the floor, along with my jaw... BUT I was thankful for 2 things. A. The cylinder linkage assembly came pre-assembled, so not too much of a puzzle. B. No one was there to see the look of panic on my face after the old 1 fell apart before I could see how it worked. Nice job once again by SMA
Thanks for the helpful video and instruction, and for knowing the difference between a switch and a lock. I must have started watching a dozen videos only to find they were calling the lock and cylinder the ignition switch.
Awesome video - extreme caution and detail Not ramroding causing breakage of the plastic moldings around the starter... awesome diagnostic tool... The issue was a piece of metal that broke off the ignition actuator pin (approx $40 vs. $20 ignition switch which was not the issue). Correct me if I missed anything. Kudos to this mechanic... Chrysler /Jeep / Dodge / Kia / Fiat Corporation need to hire him as their coach/trainer for their "Dealership Service Department's ". A great demonstration of patience and doing the right thing rather than masking a bandage which never took care of the solution. Again, awesome job!!!
@@spaceinvadertoo He also said "there are only two types of drivers, maniacs and idiots. Anybody going faster than you is a "MANIAC" anybody going slower than you is an "IDIOT""
Thanks so much the actuator worked ordered the part yesterday got it this morning take me about 10 minutes tearing apart about 15 minutes to put it back together your video is a big help thanks
"Ivan" -- If you ever traveled to Ukraine or Russia the pronunciation of "Ivan" there isn't anything like the way it sounds in the U.S.. When Cyrillic natives hear Americans pronounce that name (and Boris, Igor, Vladimir) they don't recognize it, to them it's a strange name from the U.S. If you were a Russian guy named "Ivan" you'd never know an American was calling your name. There is a video on RUclips of a guy saying these names correctly, I can't post the link here, it can be found by searching for *5 Russian Names You're Pronouncing Horribly Wrong* Start at around 2 minutes for "Ivan" As for Russian last names - forget about it - only Russian native speakers can ever figure those out.
Ive been where your at.. Except the customer ran a bypass switch and still no start.. The PCM needs to see the key in the start position when cranking...
Me: oops you forgot the spring. You: Make sure everything fits before I put the spring in. Me: ahhh! The whole complicated "grenade" all comes down to turning a little lever. Sheesh.
"These things are notorious for problems." "A real money pit." "Wanna know how to avoid this problem? Buy something from a reputable manufacturer like Toyota or Lexus."
Wow Eric! You are an amazing fellow! Thanks for sharing how you dx and fixed this problem with us!!! Have you EVER gotten frustrated and or angry while doing a job? Or do you edit that out? 🤣🤣🤣
Hey Eric, in all these videos I missed the last of your entreaties. So I was wondering why my boxes or tools don't glow and sparkle with the promise of a new day, with new adventures in repairs.......NO not just repairs but glorious repairs that help our fellow Brothers and Sisters go out and make a DIFFERENCE? When I open my small garage to greet the day, all I hear is a low but still discernible groan. Just asking.......... you did want questions..no?
Every time he leans over a running engine with his hoodie strings flopping around it drives me crazy. A serpentine belt and pulley is going to get him one day.
Good call on the broken part. I'm slightly amazed they sold a sub-unit to the switch; usually you have to buy the "assembly". Great video Eric, thanks for sharing.
Sadly the new DeWALT DCL050 light worked well for the job, it is not "camera friendly." The flicker did not show up until I was editing. It makes the frame rate look really slow. Thought I'd throw this up here before I got thousands of comments. Guess I'll be throwing it on the back burner in future vids. Good thing DeWALT is #notasponsor...
I thought Napa was your sponsor lol
The frame rate didn't bother me. I just hate the color. Too much blue, not enough red.
Anyone who complains about the minor light flicker due to refresh/frame rate can kick rocks. It ain't that big of a deal and it ain't a problem IMO. We are here to watch your process & procedures not to worry about "oh no the light is flickering waah waah waah". 🤦♀️🤣
Keep on keepin on, Eric & SMA.👍😊
Oh Relief, I thought my Monitor was on the way out!
Lots of LED lights of various types have that effect with cameras. Not a big deal but I never noticed it with the Astro lights.
A friend with a 2004 Liberty called me today. Car cranked once, wouldn't crank again. 278,000 miles. I was fairly sure it was a dead starter. But.. I watched a few videos including this one before heading out. While I enjoyed the video, it seemed unlikely it would be this failure. I then left with tools and a replacement starter in hand.
Ironically, I followed almost the same steps. Pulled the relay, jumped the terminals, the starter cranked but engine wouldn't fire. Then I went to try again and noticed the key rotation felt a bit odd. Then I knew. It had to be a broken actuator.
A quick trip to Harbor freight for the security bits, and I had the car running.
Thanks Eric for the solid diagnostics. It saved me a lot of work.
A personal note. I have been working on my own cars since I was 19. I am 57, now. Other than tires and windshields, I do my own work. And, while I think I am a pretty good shade tree mechanic, I have learned a lot by watching you work for better than a year now. Better methods, better tools, better understanding of the available resources (like factory schematics and pinouts), etcetera. I have become a better and faster mechanic as a result. I appreciate your work ethic and the attention to detail as well. I will continue watching as long as you continue publishing. Thanks.
Watched this earlier when trying to troubleshoot why the wife's jeep wouldn't start. Saved me a CRAP TON of money and helped me tremendously to replace the switch in short order. Went quickly and no problems. TYVM for the instructional video.
I showed my husband this video and I'm glad i did...because my car is now working. Thanks for taking the time to post for those willing to learn... Greatly appreciated!!!!
"If they didn't want us to take it apart, they wouldn't have put it together with screws." Hahaha!
as a kid, rivets didn't stop me much either....
Yeah but they are continuously coming up with new types of heads on those screws which require the purchase of new tools. I smell a conspiracy
I actually put words to that effect on a job application once where they wanted a 'personal statement'. I got the job but I turned it down because 1) not only would I not want to work anywhere that wants personal statements but 2) I wouldn't want to work anywhere so desperate that they would have me.
Apple: "and i took that personally!"
Greetings from England. I thought I was hearing things, but no, you actually called the metal ALUMINIUM! Wow. Next time you're over here I'll happily buy you a pint of warm best bitter beer.
That shimmer on the light is the pulse width modulation used to control the intensity. The Astro light uses a linear technique so there's no flicker at all.
To the kind man in this video, this is what was wrong with my no start Jeep Liberty. Thank you for saving the day from a miserable and costly bill at the jeep stealership. God bless you and your family
I love it when Erick works on Jeep Liberty's ....He makes my job easily. Cause I drive one.
“Is that how you Hotwire” Marie sounded a bit too happy on that question.
😄
Like a world of possibilities was just about to open!
hehe 😄
I remember in the 60's, hotwiring a car was sometimes easier than finding the keys. ;)
Lol but you gotta have the key too so technically not REALLY hot wiring.
GREAT to hear Ms. Marie helping you out, and interjecting comedy as well!
Nice to see you miss Marie! You were in rare form in this video. Speaking as someone old enough to be your grandfather or just about, the young man that catches your eye and more importantly your heart will be blessed. Eric O another fine example of troubleshooting. Right off the bat you said it didn't feel right. A lot about cars is listening and feel. I had a piece of my torque converter break off on Interstate 40 near Little Rock Arkansas. I could hear it driving down the road I had the car towed to a hotel where we spent the night. And then I took it to Aamco! Transmission transmission people what could go wrong? Numbnuts said I needed a valve job! I asked him nicely to close the hood of my car. It was obvious to anyone with a half brain the noise was coming from the bellhousing. So I took it to another shop and they couldn't hear anything. Finally I found an old timey Exxon station! Had a guy about 55 or so and I told him I tale of woe. He came outside and said startup can we pop the hood. He looked at me and said you heard that going down the road at 60 miles an hour? I said sure did. I hit the rest area just to the west of Little Rock and I could tell it was coming from the bellhousing and didn't feel it was safe to drive. He replied I'm amazed you even heard it. Show up on the lift my car went drop the transmission and a chunk of torque converter fill out. it's the part that connects the torque converter to the front pump on the transmission. Mechanic looks at me and says I've been in this business for 35 years and I've never seen this before. He couldn't get the part on a Saturday so I was there until Monday afternoon. if you pay attention to your car it'll talk to you. Either to feel or sound
I had a 1975 AMC Matador Wagon with the 258 six and Mopar torqueflite transmission . At 99 K the neck of the torque converter snapped and a chunk of metal broke off . I was younger and pulled it out in the street . No trans. jack. I dropped it on my chest . It was a surprise . I had done the 4 speed manuals that way. But the automatics are HEAVIER . It is easier on a floor jack . But the not on FWD. You really need trans. jack . I did one with a floor jack - NEVER AGAIN ! Too heavy and off balance .
Are you Puerto Rican? They have a six sense for mechanical things.. LOL.. Good musicians too.
Amazing how quick you can diagnose the problem that other shops can’t. You make repairs so quick and easy, makes it look like kids play.. THAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
Had this exact problem in my 2003 Jeep Liberty - I was able to get it home by bypassing the starter relay but only right after the key was in run position. The part was about $60 and every parts store had it in stock. Thanks this saved me.
"I can steal anything with the key" Love the SMA humor. Thanks Eric and Marie!
Need to get this guy a sponsor. He does great work. Thanks Eric
I use to own an 04 Liberty. It was a good little vehicle, had it for 12 years before the engine developed oil pressure problem to the lifters. Never did figure out what was causing that but suspected a poorly designed crankcase ventilation that lead to plugging up the oiling passages.
Amazing you were able to get those parts and pieces for the switch on this one.
Another excellent video, thanks Eric.
I've heard the 3.7L V6 in them wasn't the greatest, but I've known several people to get 200k+ miles out of their Jeep Liberty's without any issues. A lot of it boils down to whether the vehicle was maintained properly or not.
That’s what kinda made me really mad about ours was I changed the oil every 3000 miles. Trans service 3 times in a 124,000 miles, cooling system flushed twice in same mileage along with a complete tune up at 75,000 miles. I’m anal about maintenance on my vehicles. We had the lifters lose oil pressure at 124,800 miles. Of course one of the rocker fell of when this happened. I tore down the heads and had a complete valve job, new lifters, new everything. Lasted two months and lifters lost pressure again. Traded it in after that.
Wes Hawkins I still own a 2003 Jeep Liberty that I have owned for 15 years and meticulously and regularly maintained it. Still had to completely tear down and rebuild the engine at 119,000 miles because of poor engine ventilation causing oil passages to plug up and cause loss of oil pressure. It's been a great vehicle other than that and the oxygen sensors, transmission problems, rear differential issues, transfer case problems, suspension and ball joint failures...oh wait, it might be easier to list what I HAVEN'T had problems with, lol
T Mac
You certainly have had more trouble with yours than we had with ours. I did have to replace the lower ball joints and the rear upper track bar. Other than that normal early maintenance. I never follow manufacturer suggest intervals. I always figure there intervals are extended for the purpose of selling parts and repair work. That theory has always extended my vehicles life until the Jeep Liberty.
@@weshawkins7165 Maintenance does not matter ? fail..
Ohhh... no thumbs down. Scotty must be sleeping in... Great vid Eric O!
Unfortunately scotty must've came in.... theres now two dislikes
Scotty must of hit the dislike while he was staggering
@GM Kof hard that's odd.. it showed two for me
GM Kof hard Scotty hates Jeeps and all FCA cars. He’s like a complaining gold man, never happy unless he’s bitching. I always give his videos a dislike after watching a minute or two.
@@Dave-lm3th How? He's an idiot. 😂
Eric you are the man you take pride in your work you are a true mechanic love your channel
Appreciate the troubleshooting steps. In the end I had the exact same problem, but it was nice to have a bit more confidence before pulling the ignition apart.
Eric teaching Marie how to hotwire a car:
Marie: "I don't think this is how you do it."
Eric: "What do you mean? How are you gonna run from the cops with this ball joint flopping around. First we gotta fix it. Then we have to take it for a drive cycle. And then we put it back exactly where we found it."
Marie: "You're the worst car thief ever."
I have an '05 and waiting for you to diagnose what sounds like a front wheel bearing, 4X4, but after replacing noise still there. Love your diagnosis, and speed at which you go after it. Helps save the customer money on labor considering it is more then the part on this fix. Unbelievable the engineering that goes into a simple start switch.
Ball joints mostly. Check them very well, or loose a tire.
Eric, you are a great mechanic with taking all that apart and being able to fix and get it all together!!
Thank you very much. This was the exact problem we were facing. You helped save a vacation for a young lady and her son
23:50. That was so funny. I wasn’t expecting it to fall apart. Great video
Jeep = just empty every pocket. Great job as always Eric O.
Not with this one, I've had my liberty for 17 years and only put about two grand into non-routine maintenance. Almost all of that went to fixing the fcussing windows. Mind you, I do all the work myself.
Awesome! Fresh off the press. Perfect with my morning coffee
Knowledgeable, straight to the point, and humorous. Love it. After watching this video, I felt like I actually learned something! Thank you for taking the time
As soon as you said the ignition switch felt wonky I knew what went bad! Common problem on Jeep junk
Ford problem too...except in my 88 F250 it was a z-shaped rod that was in the column that actuated the actual start circuit...Disassemble the whole steering column to change it, 5 cents in aluminum and an hour of tearing apart the column to get to it. Not a bad repair just annoying due to all the crap you have to remove first.
Lol never had an issue like this on any of my jeep or my current 2007 liberty. I remember going down the road with my buddy in his Ford Ltd and the colum literally started on fire. Also...gm ingnitions??
I’ve done two of them. A Chrysler 300 and a Jeep Liberty. Seems like a fairly common issue due to a shitty design. That little sliver breaks off and you’re fubared.
It's not only Chrysler/Jeep with this sort of problem. As an example - I've diagnosed and replaced many ignition switch 'lock housings' over the years on 08-12 Ford Escapes for 'no start' conditions. It's a more time consuming job on those cars (steering wheel has to come off, column partially torn down), the part is more expensive (~$95), and equally as likely (if not more so) than the Chrysler part to fail and leave the owner with a no start condition. Similar deal on GM products such as the 1st generation Chevy Colorados.
You are fortunate to have helpers Mrs O, Hanna and Marie.
I admire how you always attempt to take the high road, and do complete analysis before making the call and repair. Greatest work ethic! Also, a kudo to the repair shop for getting a second opinion. Of course, they know "if in doubt, give it to Dr. O"!!
You are a freaking GENIUS. If I lived closer you would do all of my work. I hope you charge accordingly to Difficulty and not just by the hour!
Great video on the no starter concern. Also, good choice on the ignition cylinder "part" vs. a new cylinder assembly as I believe you have to code the key etc. which is another expense avoided. Lucky that piece of pot metal got noticed when it did changing the initial direction for parts needed. Best of all in this video, No collateral damage to those cheap plastic parts and tabs. This is something that many mechanics fail to prevent as they man handle older and brittle vehicle parts.
The cylinder wouldn't have fixed the problem anyways LOL.
Was the part just called the ignition switch? And do you by any chance know the part #? I am in the middle of the same situation with my brothers 06 liberty. Same piece broke and all. Got it out. But don't know what to ask for at the parts store?
Wow, i can't believe that i found this video! My accessories had stopped working about 3 weeks ago and then yesterday it wouldn't start at all. I followed your instructions and the exact same piece of metal was broken. You saved me a lot of money and headache! You sir are the best! Thank you sooooooo much!
Love the vids. So informative. Sometimes too much...haha.
You sir, are the only person besides one of my favorite high school teachers, Mr. Leggett, to use the phrase ... "Quick like a bunny."
I'm 51 years old, so you know if it's still in my head it's a great phrase.
And are the only person other than my wife to use the word ... SLICKERY. She uses it to describe her favorite quality in pajamas.
Thanks for the video. Had the same problem and solution on my 2007 Liberty, broken cast metal bit on the shaft extending into ignition switch. Local O'Reilly's had the ignition actuator pin in stock, so must be used in many years and Chrysler models and prone to failure. Replaced and all back to normal. South Main saved me a lot of money and time.
Another magical moment for Eric O!
Thanks for posting an honest and real video of your solving the problem. I really enjoyed your attitude, your helper's comments, and best of all, that you fixed the problem!
Keep cranking out the videos, Eric!!
I had a '93 Plymouth Voyager that suddenly wouldn't start and I tracked it down to the internals of the switch had broke. I went to replace it and found a real small security torx screw holing everything together. It was smaller than the T-10 that you had though. It was smaller than anything I had. I had to search around until I found the proper size and I believe it was a T-6. I had never seen one that small before. The good thing was that even though the problem was in the switch and not the lock cylinder, I was still able to start it with a screw driver. I pulled the switch and kept it tucked up under the dash for a little bit (took the dremel tool to the security torx screw to get it off) and pulled the switch out to start it and turn it off. That way no one would see it pulled apart like that. I then went to the junkyard and got another screw and replaced the switch with a new one. Didn't trust getting one from the junkyard.
When you really think about it, it's amazing that they can sell a decent car for $20k with all the "kibbles and bits" they have to design, manufacture, and assemble into them. All that was just to turn the ignition switch!
Well "decent" would mean it doesn't have so many problems afterward. I think a lot of the designs need to go back to more basic configurations honestly. Oh and it is a Jeep so quality doesn't apply here.
Chrysler garbage as always
Economies of scale. They probably used that same assembly across multiple models for a number of years. Make millions of them, price per piece becomes quite low.
if they still made cars for $10k, I'd agree. $20k? outrageous for what they deliver, really. I think you either work for UAW or know someone who does :p
When a FRS/86/BRZ is considered the entry sports car for $25-35k ... when we used to have CRX even inflation adjusted for 12-16k ... we have a problem.
For $20k, the damn thing should be good for 10 years or more, even in Avoca, but no, rusted out body and frame with tons of sensors and bits breaking. You are always overpaying for crap for most of the vehicles they are selling to you new these days. Then you find stuff from the past decades still running strong because they were built before they designed them to break just after warranty coverage.
Keeps Eric busy though, and feeding us videos :p
Eric,
Another great video and fix - thank you!
Its funny that you are fixing a broken Jeep and Ivan at PHAD is fixing a broken Jeep and the youtube commercial is trying to sell me a Jeep!
SMA#1
God bless
Paul
Another video that reminds us of how much we miss Hannah
Much thanks from another person you have helped. I had the same bit of aluminum fall out which allowed me to skip all the diagnosing stuff (I had already jumped the starter).
Fun bit: I used a screwdriver to start the Jeep just as you did just to double check that it would start but for whatever reason my smooth brain didn't log that bit of information properly and I still walked the 3 mile round trip to the parts store. I realized my error about 3/4 of the way there but hey, it's a nice day out and I needed the exercise.
’ Aluminium’ as opposed to ‘aluminum’ is one of the many reasons I come back to this channel. Haha!!
Back in my younger days, we called that pot metal. Not sure it’s really aluminum just because it’s soft and silver. I think it’s just mysterious metal found on the ground in China. Tooth fillings, ear rings, old crashed American or Japanese planes, bomb fragments.
@@yqwgjsg pot metal is usually zinc. Reallllllllllly brittle and soft. Aluminum is soft, but not that bad.
It’s chinesium
Better go check out AvE then.
Hi, Eric. I am enjoying the trip through the past with SMA. This episode was intriguing. True detective novelette! Ya otta make it into a movie! Oh, ya did that already. Mystery, action, suspense... You have it all. Oh yeah, a sweet helper and humor too! What a life, you lucky dog. Thanks for sharing! Stay Healthy!
Great video - clear, straight forward, no nonsense. Saved me so much time and money. Well done and thank you.
I have to say Mr. O, your troubleshooting skillz are masterclass level. I had something similar, no crank no start on a 2007 Mercedes. I had an independent European shop who works on these cars, car was in the shop for more than a week, not they were busy, but came into the conclusion that it was my ECM and that I needed a new one. They got it to start, but now it was intermittent and that I still would need a new ECM. Bought a new one from Mercedes for an arm and leg, but the issue is still present. I spoke to the mechanics about it and was just baffled by the issue. Needless to say, they had no clue. Got a refund and the non starting car back. What I'm trying to say is they didn't make a sound troubleshooting effort. Wish they had at least 1/4 of your troubleshooting process.... Just saying. Keep up the great work.
I always love guessing before I watch the video what the problem might be. I honestly was thinking this was going to be another Jeep Computer failure. Glad to see it was something reasonable!
My jeep didn't want to turn back on and this video helped us find out it had the same problem thank you sir
Enjoy watching your videos Eric, informative as well as entertaining.
Wow once again you didn't south main auto 🚗 unbelievable I wish I knew 1/4 what you know, thank you for teaching👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍and God bless you🙏
great video - good camera angle and instruction as always! Don't think I will ever do that job however it's good troubleshooting skills to learn! As always, another great video!
Excellent video! I feared I had the same issue and bought the part needed and some safety torx bits, and about a half hour later, she runs again. I knew exactly what I needed to do from watching your video. Same occurred with me, as soon as I popped off the ignition switch, a piece of metal had fallen to the floor off the end of the actuator pin. Thanks a million!
Must say I am shocked that was available aftermarket. Nicely done man.
It's because they fail all the time.
Easy way to tell if something is a common failure...see if dorman makes it. Not 100% fool proof but pretty close. I'd order dealer parts. Especially electrical parts. Their hard parts are ok mostly but i have been burned on them a few times too.
Advance always has odball shit specially dorman junk
Yesterday this came up on my feed - watched with interest, never encountered this problem before - had Jeeps for 30 years. This morning my Liberty (Cherokee here in UK) would not start, or crank - opened it up to find it was exactly the same piece broken as this video - seriously spooked !
Great diagnostic skills there Eric. Fiddly job, as you get older you get less flexible which makes it tough going to get under stearing columns and dashboards. Though you're still like a Ninja at this.
awesome I own my shop 21 years been in for over all 42 love it
I teach IT at San Jacinto College in the Houston area. I caught myself saying enhance, enhance, enhance when I was showing my students a close up of a computer component yesterday......
TYPICAL CHRSLER KRAP LIKE FORD CHEVY TOO
GET A VOLVO TOYOTA SUBIE ETC
E Kop ??? What does that have to do with his comment?
FishFind3000 probably meant to do a general comment.
@@ekop1778 a vovlo😂😂😂😂😂 man you have me dead
THANK YOU!! I have the same vehicle (just purchased it), with the exact same problem. I was prepared to go ahead and try to change the neutral safety switch which is up inside the transmission and a horrible job. But thanks to your video I was able to diagnose the problem (by finding no power to the blue and pink wire). My problem is actually the cylinder not turning all the way to start but it makes no difference, without your video I would have been completely lost. I can now drive the vehicle, starting it with a screwdriver, until I get a new key and lock cylinder set. So thank you so much your videos are not only informative, they are highly entertaining as well. As soon as I get a few extra bucks I will definitely order a hat. So again thank you.
Eric, I'm halfway thru this video, and i'm thinking that the actuator pin is broken. Also, the brake shift interlock is right there when you were looking at the underside. FYI for those who don't know- The actuator pin is a shaft that is between the key cylinder and the ignition switch. It's getting pretty common to see them breaking on Chrysler Corp products of the early to late 2000's vintage. EDIT; Just got done watching the rest of it, good job! That part where the screw for the ignition switch goes into is pretty fragile. Have seen a few PT Cruisers with that part broken and the switch moving around, making it difficult to start the engine. That part breaks, have to replace the column.
David B. Fishburn
I’ve done two of them. A Chrysler 300 and a Jeep Liberty. Seems like a fairly common issue due to a shitty design. That little sliver breaks off and you’re fubared.
I'm a Chrysler dealer tech myself, have done quite a few. I agree that it is a shitty design. The older Saginaw steering column was a better design, aside from the bearing issue on the tilt versions.
Your video was on point! I followed your instructions to the T and I was surprised to see the piece of metal drop to the floor just like in your video. That was nice because I knew right away what the problem was. Thank you, you saved me a bunch of money. The part cost me a hundred dollars and about an hours time. If anyone has this problem, first make sure your battery is good, test your starter and then this video.
Great video! You're a car genius!
Really good troubleshooting ... AGAIN ... Eric O !!! A pleasure watching you diagnose, and then actually FIX it. Cheers.
Just showed Marie how to steal a jeep liberty. Next day the yards full of them. lol
That's the punishment...
You’re a lifesaver bro. Ran to the junk yard picked up a few parts and replaced the thing that connects to the ignition switch. Cranked right up .
_Marie:The Wizard's Apprentice_
atticstattic wrong channel ? Isn’t that hoovie’s job
@@Mrflash222006
I see what you did there....
Mrflash222006 Weeeeeezerd
@@vdel7418
True...
You are the coolest and the most original mechanic that i had watched ! Thank you for all the great help with Jeep's. I manage to solve several problems by myself with input that you gave. Thank you very much. These days training to solve this "no start/no crank" problem. Best
If I sent you all my Jeeps I wouldn't have much to work on! 😂😂😂 Have a great weekend Eric!
Had to watch just to see if your cylinder actuator was broken like the 1st 1 I ever did, was. After I took the lower cover off, all the 'bits' hit the floor, along with my jaw... BUT I was thankful for 2 things. A. The cylinder linkage assembly came pre-assembled, so not too much of a puzzle. B. No one was there to see the look of panic on my face after the old 1 fell apart before I could see how it worked. Nice job once again by SMA
Done a ton of these. Always that pin.
What is that part called at the parts store?? I have the same problem
@@robbiehicks2308 Dorman 924-704
Make sure it’s for your car. 👍🏽
Thanks for the helpful video and instruction, and for knowing the difference between a switch and a lock. I must have started watching a dozen videos only to find they were calling the lock and cylinder the ignition switch.
Shocking to find that part on the shelf. What a bit of luck.
I think they break a lot, I've had 2 cars where they broke, 97 Grand Voyager, 96 Grand Cherokee. Cheap pot metal.
Thank you for the video. Saved me a major repair bill on my 2005 Jeep Liberty.
Glad the car came to you before the parts cannon went off.
Awesome video - extreme caution and detail
Not ramroding causing breakage of the plastic moldings around the starter... awesome diagnostic tool...
The issue was a piece of metal that broke off the ignition actuator pin (approx $40 vs. $20 ignition switch which was not the issue). Correct me if I missed anything. Kudos to this mechanic...
Chrysler /Jeep / Dodge / Kia / Fiat Corporation need to hire him as their coach/trainer for their "Dealership Service Department's ". A great demonstration of patience and doing the right thing rather than masking a bandage which never took care of the solution.
Again, awesome job!!!
I don't know how you do all that without cursing up a wild streak, oh yeah, editing.....
I always prepare a set list of curse words before working on my vehicle.
@@davidlong1786 George Carlin, I believe it was, said "If you do not curse while driving, you are not paying attention to the road."
My daughter to mother, aged 16. "I think daddy is cross. He is bleeding badly, has broken a bolt, & used the F word".
One reason I do not make videos. Instant demonitised
@@spaceinvadertoo He also said "there are only two types of drivers, maniacs and idiots. Anybody going faster than you is a "MANIAC" anybody going slower than you is an "IDIOT""
Thanks so much the actuator worked ordered the part yesterday got it this morning take me about 10 minutes tearing apart about 15 minutes to put it back together your video is a big help thanks
"In the picture, it looked HUGE!" That's what she said!
2005 called, they want their joke back
RUclips's best channel
Ivan would have glued that piece back on lol.
And Abom would have spray welded the part back up and machined it to size.
What no duct tape?
"No parts required!"
"Ivan" -- If you ever traveled to Ukraine or Russia the pronunciation of "Ivan" there isn't anything like the way it sounds in the U.S.. When Cyrillic natives hear Americans pronounce that name (and Boris, Igor, Vladimir) they don't recognize it, to them it's a strange name from the U.S. If you were a Russian guy named "Ivan" you'd never know an American was calling your name.
There is a video on RUclips of a guy saying these names correctly, I can't post the link here, it can be found by searching for *5 Russian Names You're Pronouncing Horribly Wrong* Start at around 2 minutes for "Ivan"
As for Russian last names - forget about it - only Russian native speakers can ever figure those out.
You are a wizard my friend! Thanks for another awesome video. Loving my SMA hoodie. I even get compliments on it from time to time.
Everytime you say 'enhance' I laugh. Love your vids as always
I love watching these videos even though most of the vehicles have no gear stick or clutch and the steering wheels on the wrong side!
Ive been where your at.. Except the customer ran a bypass switch and still no start.. The PCM needs to see the key in the start position when cranking...
Oh man you have no idea how you literally saved my week!
Me: oops you forgot the spring. You: Make sure everything fits before I put the spring in. Me: ahhh!
The whole complicated "grenade" all comes down to turning a little lever. Sheesh.
Let's stick this back in place before it grenades! If I had a dime every time I said that lol. Thx for the great shows Eric.
I'm waiting on the episode when Scotty has the Starship Enterprise towed over because the warp drive won't start or engage.
"These things are notorious for problems."
"A real money pit."
"Wanna know how to avoid this problem? Buy something from a reputable manufacturer like Toyota or Lexus."
Have one at my shop right now, exactly the same problem just a year older, thanks this video saved me a lot of frustration.
Was it fixed? What was the issue?
@@dnlcast2I don't know
"Aluminium" oh Eric, you've finally got it. English 101.
Your welcome 😁
Eric, what can we say other than another good video. Thank you for sharing and have a good weekend Artie 👍👍👍
Wow Eric! You are an amazing fellow! Thanks for sharing how you dx and fixed this problem with us!!! Have you EVER gotten frustrated and or angry while doing a job? Or do you edit that out? 🤣🤣🤣
I came for the tools and the repairs, but I stayed for the banter.
Hey Eric, in all these videos I missed the last of your entreaties. So I was wondering why my boxes or tools don't glow and sparkle with the promise of a new day, with new adventures in repairs.......NO not just repairs but glorious repairs that help our fellow Brothers and Sisters go out and make a DIFFERENCE? When I open my small garage to greet the day, all I hear is a low but still discernible groan. Just asking.......... you did want questions..no?
One of these days them hoodie laces are gonna get you into trouble …………….
Every time he leans over a running engine with his hoodie strings flopping around it drives me crazy. A serpentine belt and pulley is going to get him one day.
😂😂😂
Good call on the broken part. I'm slightly amazed they sold a sub-unit to the switch; usually you have to buy the "assembly". Great video Eric, thanks for sharing.
It's a very common part to have brake. I bet they sell a lot of them.
Funnily enough, I had an ignition actuator pin sheer off on my dodge charger about 3 weeks ago. I felt like I was having a flash back... XD
Late to the party here Eric O. but still amazed that you find the culprits. Wish I lived closer to your shop.
"not a real good thief, even with a key"
even a thief is smart enough to not steel a jeep :)))
Amen