Is there a solution for a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 4.0 engine that has no working gauges?

Good morning! I’m 75 years old and new to using the internet, so please be patient with me. I just discovered there are different forums for Jeep owners, like one for Jeep Cherokee and another for Jeep Grand Cherokee. I’m trying to figure out where to post my issue.

Here’s the problem: My wife was driving her 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee (with a 4.0 engine) when she heard a “Ding” sound. She looked at the gas gauge and saw it was on “empty.” She stopped to get gas, but even after filling up, the gas gauge didn’t change. Then she noticed that none of the other gauges were working either. The Jeep would start for 3 seconds and then shut off.

After talking to several people, we found out there’s a code called P1686, but no one could guarantee they could fix it, and it would cost around $800. So, the suggestion was to remove the ECM (Engine Control Module) and send it to All Computer Resources to reprogram the SKIM Module.

I removed the suspected SKIM Module from under the steering column and put the ECM back. The Jeep started and ran perfectly, but the gauges still didn’t work. I checked all the fuses, tested the cluster, cleaned the ground wires, and even followed a suggestion from someone online to check voltage at the DLC (Data Link Connector), but I’m not sure if it’s relevant to my Jeep model.

Now, I’m stuck and really need help. My wife refuses to drive her Jeep without working gauges, so she’s been using my 2002 F150, and she’s not happy about it. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your help.

1 Like

I had my neighbour go through the same problem a few months ago.
However, the gauges were able to come on and work after he put a 15 amp fuse instead of a 10 in the BCM number 22.

There’s hope for your 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 4.

0L engine and lifeless gauges! Here’s the good news: this is a common problem with these Jeeps, and there are a few solutions you can try, depending on the culprit.

Common Causes, Clever Fixes:

Blown Fuse:  The most common reason for dead gauges in a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a simple blown fuse.  Check your owner's manual to locate the fuse responsible for the gauges (it might be labelled "instrument panel" or "gauges").  If it's blown, replace it with a fuse of the same amperage rating.  Hopefully, that'll be all it takes!

Faulty Ground Connection:  Sometimes a loose or corroded ground connection can disrupt the electrical flow to the gauges.  Check the ground wires near the instrument cluster (behind the dashboard) and the engine computer (usually located near the firewall).  Make sure they're clean and securely fastened.

Instrument Cluster Issues:  If the fuses and grounds look good, the problem might lie within the instrument cluster itself.  This could be a faulty circuit board or bad stepper motors that control the gauge needles.  While replacing the cluster is an option, some Jeep enthusiasts are handy with soldering and can potentially repair the circuit board themselves.  However, this fix requires some technical knowledge.

Getting Help and Avoiding Costly Repairs:

Before diving into more complex solutions, it’s wise to consult a trusted mechanic or search online Jeep forums specific to your model year. Jeep owners are a resourceful bunch, and you might find a solution that saves you time and money.

If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting yourself, take your Jeep to a mechanic familiar with these vehicles. They can diagnose the problem and give you an accurate repair estimate.

The Final Drive:

Don’t despair! There’s a good chance a relatively simple fix will get your Jeep’s gauges working again. By checking the fuses and grounds first, you might be surprised at how easy the solution can be. And if you need some extra help, Jeep forums and mechanics are there to get your gauges back in motion.