EVER have a USED JEEP CHEROKEE ? ('94,'95,'96 or '97)?

Question

I absolutely adore those older Jeep Cherokees--the boxy kind.
Thinking of buying one soon.

But I heard that there was a recall with those older models, and they need lots of work, is that true?--

DID YOU EVER HAVE ONE?
--WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH IT?

ARE THEY RELIABLE??

Answer 1

I currently own a 96 Grand Cherokee 4.0L HO. inline 6, 4WD and love it. It gets great gas mileage, has the go anywhere ability and is very reliable. As for recalls nothing major found, just a recall recently on the emmisions system, which I had done, and then went to another dealership and had it undone due to it caused the jeep to not have as much power.

Other than that they're pretty solid trucks as long as you take care of them.

Answer 2

I have a '93 w/196K miles on it. So far the only thing I had to replace were an ignition coil, battery, and exhaust system. Not to mention the things you would expect to wear out like the rubber parts: tires, bushings, hoses, dust caps, and plugs, and wires) Overall, my Jeep has had no problems. The engine is very reliable. Some thing that are commonly wrong with cherokees are: leaking oil filter adapter ($10), cracked exhaust manifold ($185), seperating door hinge welds ($20). Other than those problems, it is a very reliable vehicle to have. But, like any used vehicle, it all depends on the previous owner. Before you buy the Jeep, stop by a Jeep shop and have them do a once over. They should be able to tell you what condition it is in and if it's worth the money.

Answer 3

First off, don't listen to anyone talking about the Grand Cherokee...they are different animals. Yes, some share the same engine, but that's about it. They both use a different trans, body style, axles, and electronics. I have a '95 Cherokee now and have had various ones from the '80s. The older ones were sold with over 200,000 miles on them, and were still driving when sold (with 2 exceptions that became donor vehicles). My '95 is on its 2nd engine (the last owner went 25,000 miles on an oil change and the engine started knocking). These are very reliable vehicles with the 4.0L engine that is time proven, the AW4 trans which is practically bulletproof, and simple electronics (not at all like what is used in the Grand Cherokee). If you get a decent price on one, they are well worth it.

Answer 4

I own one, and I love it! They are very reliable if maintained and inexpensive to purchase. Just do a search on e-bay for the year you want to buy and you'll get an idea and probably a good deal. There were recalls as with virtually all modern production vehicles. The recalls are safety or emission concerns that are fixed free of charge to the customer. Any dealership will tell you whether the recall has been performed or not just by giving them the VIN #. Hope I've answered your question. I tend to ramble when it comes to Cherokees!
Mike in Da U.P.

Answer 5

Very reliable.. don't pay attention to the grand cherokee posts,totally different vehicles.. the pre 1990 models had the renix fuel injection systems and the 258 ci six after 1990 saw the intro of the 4,0 with the chrysler fuel injection, so it is a better choice.. but the cherokee is a great vehicle go for it!

Answer 6

This model Jeep has been known to regularly achieve 200,000 to 300,000 miles.The critical thing is to change the fluids! Don't use Lip Gloss! LOL! Jeep Cherokee's are one of the most in demand used cars in America today. It has a cast iron engine and head, so there is no heat differential between the block and head. This prevents the head from warping, which is a common occurrence in engines with aluminum heads and cast iron blocks. Buy one and enjoy, but choose one that has been loved!

Answer 7

I have a 97 Cherokee Sport that we bought new. It now has 180,000 miles on it and still runs strong. This car has been with us in Chicago, Florida and now Rhode Island. It is like the family dog. We have had no major issues. The engine has never been touched. Just regular oil changes and the usual routine maintenance. This will get you home in the worst of weather. I am sorry they don't make them anymore and will be sad when this one finally gives it up. Issues: the AC on these vehicles will usually go and is expensive to repair. I have replaced the waterpump and radiator, but that's it. Buy one. It will be your friend.

Answer 8

DO NOT BUY ONE!!!! We, right now as we speak, have our Jeep (1997 G.C.) in the shop right now for the 7th time in one year. We just got the estimate and it is $1400.00 after this repair, we will have almost spent $3500. in repairs alone. Not too mention that it is a huge gas hog as well. There is something new wrong with it at least once a month. We have replaced the fuel pump, water pump, complete exhaust system and catalytic converter, complete tune up, a/c system, numerous sensors and relays, radiator and other things. We have almost spent repairing it what the car is actually worth. These cars have numerous electrical problems and fuel issues. Steer clear!

Answer 9

I am gonna tell you the same thing my dad told me when i was going to buy my first car. "If you want parts for a chevy, they are so common you can get them at the grocery store. Parts for a Ford, go to the dealer. Parts for a Chrysler? Go to H*ll!!" Jeeps are alot of fun, but if they break (and they will) you will go away from the shop with at least one arm missing, maybe a leg too. If you have more money than Bill Gates, go ahead and buy one. If you want cheap and reliable, forget the jeep. Good luck

Answer 10

I have been a proud owner of 2 cherokees (boxy kind) and both of them have been excellent. Love the body style and great engine I6 4.0. If you buy one, get one of those with a 4x4. Just don't forget their regular maintenance like you would with any car. I strongly recommend them, in fact, my mother-in-law owns another one and a couple of my friends do too with no complaints. Good luck!