1997 Cherokee Sport 4.0 auto
111,400 miles

My jeep randomly started its new quirk of stuttering/ bogging about 30-45 seconds after starting. I start it up, start driving, and about 30-45 seconds later it will bog down for 3-4 seconds. It seems like the throttle input isn’t even registering when it happens. Then it will make a POP POP sound and return to normal. The sound seems like it’s coming from front rather than the exhaust.

It’s done it every time I’ve driven it since it started. I have no CEL, fluids are good, and all of the suspension components are tight. I honestly have no idea where to start looking for the solution so any help would be appreciated.

EDIT: I do have a CEL. I cleaned some grounds and it went away for a day, but now it’s back. The codes are as follows:

P1281: Engine is cold too long
P1698: No transmission Chrysler detection message
P0700: Transmission fault present
P1694: Chrysler collision detection message from Jeep truck engine controller failure

 

Probably O2 sensor. Mine did the same.

 

The upstream O2 sensor isn’t even a year old. Before then there wasn’t even a sensor there and it ran ok. Just a little under powered.

 

Would be nice is that was the case for mine... easy way to find out.... I think mine could even be original to the Jeep...

 

O2 sensors can make some weird stuff happen.

What brand is the one you installed?

 

It’s a Bosch sensor. Also see my edit.

 

P1281 is often caused by a failing thermostat. When was the last time this was changed? It can also be caused by a coolant temp sensor sending inaccurate temp readings to the computer.

If you change it, use a genuine Mopar stat, 195 degree.

 

Same here. Unplug the upstream O2 sensor and see if the problem goes away. Mine ran fine at wide open throttle when the ECU ignores the O2 sensor while in open loop.