Three problems related to engine clicking and tapping noises have been reported for the 2008 Jeep Wrangler. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
When the engine is running there is a clicking sound coming from the engine. I took it to the dealership, as they do all of my service and oil changes, and the technician said it was a known issue with this engine, and there have been several people complaining about it. They said it was the lifters in the engine that are making the noise.
On numerous occasions my Jeep fails to start. When I insert the key in the ignition and turn to start, the lights on the dash lights up with a single click sound coming from somewhere in the engine compartment. After continuously trying over and over to start the Jeep it would finally start. Some days it would take hours to start up. The problem occurs in any weather, day or night. Some days the Jeep starts up fine on the first try, other times it is a nightmare and takes all day to start up. I have taken the Jeep to the Jeep dealership before for a diagnostic, but it was useless and a waste of money for me since the problem is still occurring! after researching online, I have noticed many people having similar problems. Due to expired warranty, I can't afford to continue to pay for parts that could probably fix the problem. An individual on-line posted a Chrysler star case # 6505315 two years ago that could possibly help, but in the mean time there is no recall for this problem. If you want more information, check out Jeepforum. Com under 2008 jk starting problems. As for now, my Jeep is parked at work once again until it decides it wants to start up again.
I have a loud ticking noise after the engine warms up. Dealer states it is the fuel injectors. This noise is not fuel injectors. The noise sounds like a lifter knock. I have had it to one dealer three times. I have just taken it to another dealer. It would seem that if it was the fuel injectors it make the noise all the time and not after it is driven.