I had that problem on my 06. Tried everything i could think of. If you take the panel off under the steering column. There is a bunch of wires running down on the right side.. I found out it was the heavy red wire and the pink wire. I put my key in the run position and jumped the 2 wires and got it started that way. Found out my ignition switch actuator pin was broke .

 

Most of the time it is the actuator assembly between the key cylinder & the ignition switch. Put the connector back on the switch & remove it from the actuator (1 T-10 torx security bolt). Then turn the switch with a screwdriver to see if it starts.

Here is a link describing this & photos of the parts involved & a video of replacing the actuator, if needed.

You did not give your TJ’s year but using a Haynes manual which is a general guide & not even close to year specific is not a good idea. Get a FSM (factory service manual) for you year if you plan on doing any work on it.

https://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f9/.../f9/06-2-4-l-manual-86k-won-t-start-feels-like-clutch-safety-but-isn-t-4349625/

 

:welcome: to the Forum..:wavey:

 

Thanks guys! Ill give that a shot later today.

Its a 2001 TJ - 4cyl - manual. If I still wanted to jump the car, I would bridge the red and yellow wires, correct? It looks to me from the wiring diagram that the yellow wire goes to my starter. I just want to make sure since I've never done this before...

Thanks!

 

What are you working on, a car or a JEEP?

 

its my jeep - an 01 TJ 4cyl manual

 

Yes, jumping red to yellow should get the starter to engage but not to start the engine since you also need power to the PCM & other components like coil & injectors etc. to get it running. That is why you need the connector plugged into the ignition switch so turning it will power everything needed, not just engage the starter.