Starter Issue

[Nitro mom]

Got in my Nitro this morning, cranked it up and it kept cranking!!! Instinctively, I reached up and turned the ignition off. I waited a few seconds and tried again and it started like it always had in the past. I have never had a vehichle do this before. Has anyone else had this problem or is this an isolated incident?
Just curious!

[40tudor]

My 2008 R/T does the same thing. Took it to the dealer last week and they could not make it due it. Another guy at the dealer with a 2007 Nitro has same problem. Intermittent starter doesn't stop cranking until you pull key back.

[Badgeman]

Originally Posted by 40tudor

My 2008 R/T does the same thing. Took it to the dealer last week and they could not make it due it. Another guy at the dealer with a 2007 Nitro has same problem. Intermittent starter doesn't stop cranking until you pull key back.

I took my '08 RT in for the same problem around 25K miles. The service manager said it's a common problem especially when the engine is hot, but I told him I want it fixed since, as a pilot we are told not to turn starters too long if the aircraft's engine doesn't start up. Prolonged cranking can over heat the starter and shorten starter life. A new starter installed is well around $750 on a Nitro. So, when I picked the car up, the problem was fixed. I drive the car out of warranty and badda-bing! Hello! It's there again. I looked back in my records to see what work was done to fix it but apparently it was not made note of. Either it was so cheap a fix or they neglected to recorded it. I'll call tomorrow to as what it was. If I don't get back to you guys/gals call Maroone Dodge on Pines Blvd. in Pembroke Pines and ask for the service manager.

[dhh3]

I have a new 2011 that I purchased 6 weeks ago. I now have about 2,300 miles on it now. Last Friday, I drove it about 60 miles to visit my father-in-law. We were there for about 2 hours (time enough for it to cool off) and when we went to leave for dinner, my starter did this same exact thing! I'll be checking with the dealer on this. I don't know if the starter is included in the extended power train warranty, although it should be included in the basic warranty. I have the 3.7. What engine do you have? Maybe this is a way to isolate the issue. I did have a 2003 Liberty Renegade with the 3.7 and I drove it 4 years without this happening!

[Badgeman]

Originally Posted by dhh3

I have the 3.7. What engine do you have? Maybe this is a way to isolate the issue.

I've got the 4.0L. The service manager at Maroone Dodge down here outside of Fort Lauderdale is a cool guy. I reminded him I'd reported this to him under warranty, but the problem returned. He said he'd look at it for free, but beyond that, it would be Dodge/Chrysler's call. Let's keep each other updated.

[40tudor]

I'll keep watching for fixes for this problem. I have over 50K on my 08-4L R/T so its out of warranty. I'm not going to replace the $700 starter if its not the problem. It's more than likely a $10 relay.

[dhh3]

Originally Posted by Badgeman

I've got the 4.0L. The service manager at Maroone Dodge down here outside of Fort Lauderdale is a cool guy. I reminded him I'd reported this to him under warranty, but the problem returned. He said he'd look at it for free, but beyond that, it would be Dodge/Chrysler's call. Let's keep each other updated.

I ordered the uconnect kit, but it has been on back order forever. When it arrives, I plan on the dealer doing the installation (they have to perform the starscan) and I will bring this issue up with them. I will let you know what they tell me.