Looking at buying an XJ and to spend $3000 max. I live in TX so I need a working AC. Preferably 5-speed and 4wd, but have no plans to mod/upgrade.

My question is this, what are some common mechanical issues that I should watch out for when looking for an XJ? Are electrical issues common? What about ancillaries like starters, alt, and AC, do those go out often? I am mechanical, but usually leave AC and internal engine work to the pros.


Want a dependable truck that is economical to fix, and still has a little character, which the XJ has.

Your advice is appreciated.

 

XJ's will last a LONG time if they are well maintained. Some members here have over 300,000 miles on theirs. The key is MAINTENANCE.
If you are looking for a DD, you are probably best off buying from a private party who were maintenance-savvy and have all the receipts. Look on craigslist.org and see what is available in your area, find the best one (or the one you like best) and bring cash.

'00 & '01's have somewhat of a reputation for cracking heads...
Avoid the '84-86 V6 models, unless you are a masochist.
Do you need 4WD? 2WD models have fewer driveline parts, can be cheaper, and can get slightly better mileage.
4.0 inline 6 cyl is the preferred engine.
Late '89 and newer Aisin-Warner 5-speeds are preferred over the Peugeot-made BA-10/5 transmission.
I'm sure others will chime in with other suggestions...
HTH!

 

An XJ will last forever if taken care of. Regular oil changes will get you well over 300K out of a Jeep 4.0. The regulars do go bad like starter, alternator, water pump, serpantine belt, etc. XJs are known for running hot and overheating in hot climates so, being in TX you will need to keep your cooling system healthy. The A/C in my XJ only needed to be recharged when I bought it. I have 240K miles and it still puts ice cycles on your nose if you run it too long.

 

my 93 xj has 300,xxx+ 5-speed AX-15 tranny and 4.0l Still as strong as the day it was built.

My 98 was 265,xxx with AW4 auto tranny and 4.0L The tranny was still really strong the motor was dogged all it's life and cracked a head but replaced it and ran like new till the day i wrecked it.

Avoid 84-85's! 86-90 are the Renix eras of 4.0L, 91-96 are HO's, 97-99 are a different head and 00-01 have coil packs.

 

renix is 86-90, 91 is when they started the HO's

 

I always get confused on the last date thanks

 

anytime brother

 

HOs are the SHIZ-NIT!!! A used Renix XJ is pretty darn tuff, too. At first you need to give them a little love, then flog the S*** out of them every chance you get and they will last forever.

 

What gas mileage do y'all (without larger tires) average?

 

i am getting like 14 on avg right now. but it has to do with being cold where i live, but jeeps are not fuel efficient if that what your looking for

 

I usually see around 18-22 depending on how rough I am on it. Been down to around 16 and as high as 23.