Most Likely Culprits:
* Distributor Cap and Rotor: These are particularly vulnerable. Water can short-circuit the electrical connections inside, preventing the spark plugs from firing. Inspect them carefully for water. Look for corrosion or signs of water intrusion. You might see whitish deposits or discoloration. If you find any, you may need to replace them.
* Ignition Coil: Similar to the distributor cap and rotor, water can damage the coil, affecting spark generation. Look for any signs of corrosion or damage.
* ECU (Engine Control Unit): While less likely to be directly affected by a simple engine wash, water splashing near the ECU could cause problems. This is more common if you used a high-pressure washer. Check the ECU's connectors for corrosion or water intrusion. (This is usually located under the hood, often near the firewall or battery).
* Sensors: Various sensors (like the crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, etc.) rely on precise electrical connections. Water can interfere with their function. These are usually located around the engine and are often small and easily overlooked. Inspect their connectors.
* Wiring Harness: Water can cause corrosion and shorts in the engine's wiring harness. Visually inspect the harness for any signs of damage.
* Air Intake: If you sprayed water directly into the air intake, it could have hydrolocked the engine (water in the cylinders). This is a serious issue.
What to Do:
1. Drying: Let the engine thoroughly dry. This is crucial. Don't attempt to start it until it's completely dry. You might consider using compressed air to help dry out hard-to-reach areas, but be careful not to damage anything. Allow it to sit for several hours, preferably overnight.
2. Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect the areas mentioned above (distributor cap, rotor, coil, ECU connectors, sensors, and wiring harness). Look for any visible signs of water damage like corrosion, discoloration, or wetness.
3. Check for Spark: If you have some automotive experience, you can use a spark tester to check if spark is reaching the plugs. This will help determine if the problem lies in the ignition system.
4. Check for Fuel: Make sure you have fuel in the tank. A clogged fuel filter is less likely to be related to the wash, but it's always a good thing to rule out.
5. Battery: Ensure your battery is properly charged. A weak battery may not be able to crank the engine strongly enough to start, even if everything else is fine.
6. Professional Help: If you're not comfortable inspecting the electrical components yourself, take your Jeep to a mechanic. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix the problem safely and efficiently.
Prevention for Future Washes:
* Low-Pressure Wash: Use a low-pressure nozzle and avoid directly spraying water at sensitive electrical components.
* Protect Sensitive Areas: Cover the distributor cap, coil, and ECU with plastic bags before washing.
* Avoid High-Pressure Washers: These are particularly dangerous for engine washing. They can force water into places it doesn't belong.
* Let it Air Dry Thoroughly: Don't attempt to start the engine until everything is completely dry.
Ignoring this problem could lead to further damage, so addressing it promptly is important.
