Issue has been ongoing since I purchased the vehicle five years ago. If the Jeep isn't driven over a three day period, the battery is drained and the Jeep won't start if left a few days more the battery cells are damaged and a new battery is needed. I myself have chased this ground on and off over the last five years as well has every mechanic I know, with no success.

A friend's wife has the same vehicle - year, make, and model with the same issue. She actually was convinced that it was something to do - or linked to - with the drivers side door, so she would climb over the center console to exit the vehicle... didn't help.

All the usual suspects have been thoroughly inspected and or replaced such as: wiring, fuses and relays as well as interior and under hood lighting, alternator, battery cables and ground wires.

I have discovered while researching the issue that it is a common issue with this particular model however, no recalls or fixes posted anywhere that I could find.

Replaced dead battery with new Battery September 19, 2014 after my 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4 would not start. Jeep started fine with no problems or hesitations till about 2 weeks ago. Brand New Battery but same issue. Would not start. Cranked once then clicking sound. lost all power to vehicle and ignition key was stuck and I couldn't remove it. Tried moving Floor shift several times but still couldn't remove the key. Gave up. Meanwhile, I managed to recharge battery enough to start. Key was able to be removed normally and my Jeep ran for a week. Now, I have the same issue again.

Recalls were performed on my Jeep. Those recalls were the Secondary Detent and the installation of a trailer hitch. Not aware of any other recalls regarding electrical.

Battery is Brand New (about a month or 2 old)