monnieh

I am getting ready to purchase a 1999 Jeep Cheroke Sport 4x4 Friday. It has 142k on it. Looks to be in decent shape.

I am new to 4x4's. I searched the forum but did not find a "watch out for" post on buying.

What should I be on the alert for b4 buying this truck? ANY advice would be greatly appreciated.

thanks,

-Monnie

XJ Stryker

This thread will get more attention in Cherokee Chat.

Well there could be several things. Have you done a CarFaqs vehicle history report that is the first thing that should be done when buying any used vehicle.

The jeep is a strong vehicle but does have its flaws at times.

Check for oil leaks.

Check for Coolant in the oil.

99 years are known for a exhaust manifold prone to cracking although that could already be taken care of.

If you have any more specs or pics of stuff we could take a closer look for ya. I wouldn't pay over 4500 for a 99 with 142 on the clock so if they are asking more than that then go somewhere else or talk them down.

I found both my XJ's on Craigslist so I spent 1700 on two of them.

monnieh

I am going to purchase it for $3k

Here is a link to the ad with pictures. I can call him and ask him about it as well if you can think of any specific questions I should ask.

http://dallas.craigslist.org/ftw/cto/966949572.html

here is the text from the ad: "-I have a four door 1999 red Jeep Cherokee Sport 4x4, 6 Cyl, Auto, 142k miles. It has power windows and locks, 6-disk CD player, radar, oversized off road tires with about 90% tread. I did a full tune up less than 3k miles back. This Jeep is very reliable in every way. It has some cosmetic dings and scrapes here and there but nothing major. If you are just looking for a reliable commuter for long or short distances to work or school, great hunting vehicle, farm truck, or something for the kids to work with on a ranch this is the vehicle. If you are serious and would like more info or more pics please contact me. Feel free to contact me anytime either by e-mail or at the number listed below. "

The tune up was: replaced spark plugs and wires, replaced the spark plug rotor cap. He assures me there are no leaks anywhere. AC does not work but heater does. I smelled the tranny fluid and it did smell a little "burnt" which worries me.

thanks again for the help!!!

XJ Stryker

Looks like a nice buy. I would definitly go look at it and take it for a lil test drive.

Are you mechanically inclined do you have a tool set. Just asking cause there are some thing that need to be done any time you purchase a new vehicle.

I recco a full fluid and filter change of everything that way you have a baseline and you KNOW when stuff has been done.

monnieh

Yes, I can do basic maintenance like changing break pads and such.

XJ Stryker

I was more less talking about draining the Diffs, T-case, Tranny, radiator flush and what not. Alot of time those are overlooked.

BuckB91XJ

Looks like a good buy for $3K. Check for clean oil. clean tranny fluid and clean coolant and leaks from any of these. with 142K miles the tranny fluid will look and smell a little burnt. If it shifts good when you test drive it then it is fine. Be sure and check out the transfer case shifting, also. Check for accessive sewing machine noise from the motor and ANY blue smoke would be a deal stopper for me. Unless the guy wanted to come down on the price. Working heater, decent brakes and decent interior are important to me as well. Be wary of any noises while driving, accelerating or slowing down.