hey,
so i am in need of a new cherokee, and i found one locally with 133k on the clock for about $1800. my previous one was a 95, so i'm not real familiar with the newer stuff. the body is clean, but its been sitting around for awhile. the owner has tinkered with it but doesn't have the time or space to keep it. so can any owners give me some tips about the 98? maybe things to look out for when i check it over? thanks guys.

 

Look and listen, check all the fluids. U can get an idea of previous maintenance (or lack of it). Not aware of any particular issues with '98.

 

98 is a good year in general. How does it run?

You really need to give it the once over on the road. Test EVERYTHING, including 4WD and every electrical thing inside (heater, stereo, AC, etc)

Check fluid levels and condition.

Tranny fluid should be red or close to it and not smell burnt.

Coolant should be green or close to it and should not have rust or chunks in it!

Oil should not be low on the dipstick!

Believable proof of maintenance goes a long ways in my book................

 

looked at it today. looked nice but i found literally a drop of white milky stuff on the oil cap. the engine compartment was also covered in a brownish substance that reminded me of the overflow tank in my buddy's car before we flushed the system. also the oil filter was sparkling clean and the oil looked new. new radiator and water pump as well. i think i will pass on it. i just don't have the time or space to pull a head or replace the crusty brake line under it.