I plan to look at a 98 Cherokee Sport 4WD 177k on the clock. Is this a good year? Anything special to look for in this year? Your thoughts on the mileage. I plan to drive from Nebraska to Arizona several round trips. Can the Jeep handle it? Thanks

 

its a cherokee 4.0 I6 right? best engine jeep made imo shouldnt have any problems

 

X2... 4.0's are awesome!


The only thing that i would look out for is rust. Rust is common on the floorboards, under the carpet.

 

Rust is definately a common problem depending on where the vehicle is located. A common expression is that the 4.0's are "bulletproof" haha so unless something is obviously not running right then you should be good there. I have a 98 4.0 with about 145000 on it and loving every minute of it!!!

 

1997-1999 are basically the same, and I love my '99. It is very reliable and fun to drive. I like the 1997+ body style, it looks more refined.

2000 and 2001 had went to distributorless ignition. Some people don't like this as they see it as another electrical component that can fail. Also, these years have a weaker head that is more likely to crack than previous years. You wouldn't have to worry about this on a 1998, though.

Basically, just make sure something isn't catastrophically wrong. And like jfxj67 stated, check for rust.

 

what? the owner could have swamped it in a lake. just because it was a 4.0 doesnt mean its doesnt have issues.

i would be checking to see what to motor oil looks like along with tranny fluid. make sure its not burnt. check bushings, tie rod ends. listen for weird noises also.