Treedweller

I will hopefully be looking for a vehicle in June or July and am very interested in the Jeep Cherokee. I'll have about $3000.00 to use. I like the 2 door and 4 x 4 models preferably automatic (for wife). I have read the V6 4.0 is an awesome engine. I have read that the Grand Cherokee isn't as good as the Cherokee. Is there anything to look for when checking out vehicles? Any advice would be appreciated. Bad points, Good Points?

Thanks in Advance

Dark Foot Stompin

Just look and make sure whatever jeep you are looking to buy that it runs in a condition that is fine with you. Take it for a test drive before you buy it of course, check under the hood.

Pretty much what you would do buying any car.

Treedweller

Thanks

I have always leased and now I am trying to be without a monthly payment. Buying used is fairly new to me. I have always wanted a Cherokee, I have never worked on cars so was afraid to inherit problems that I can not fix. Now I am willing to try.

89Laredo

This look like a V6 to you?


Check for underbody rust, unibody cracks, etc. The doors like to sag, and the drivers seat can fall over to the left a little.
The RMS likes to leak, and the manifolds are known to crack. If you test drive a 00-01, check the coolant and the oil. If the oil looks "milky" pass it by. These models are known for head cracks.

With the AW4 (auto) just make sure it shifts good, it should be smooth and slightly firm. TC will lock at 45mph.

Donnie_K

It's not a V6, it's a straight 6. Personally I'd look for a 97-99 with the chrysler 8.25 rear end. Opinions may vary on the years though... lol. Main reason I say 97-99 is because 97 is when the 8.25 was upgraded to a 29 spline from the older 27 spline, and cupholders were added. but 00-01 had cylinder heads that were prone to cracking, and they also had a low pinion axle in the front which makes for less ground clearance and more of an angle on the front driveshaft if you plan on lifting it. If you plan on going with bigger wheels I'd stay away from the Dana 35 rear ends too. Then there's different trim packages. Most are sports, then you have the up country that has a little taller suspension in it, and the limiteds which are the luxury trim package.