I am new to this forum and looking for some advice. I have the chance to purchase a 2000 Cherokee Sport 2WD 4DR 6 cylinder for $3000. No known mechanical issues. Only 88,000 miles. I am purchasing from a friend's mother who was the original owner (about 80 years old). The vehicle has not been abused. It will be for my 16 year old daughter. Would y'all recommend this purchase as a first vehicle for a new driver?

 

Sounds like a great daily driver. definitely just be sure that there's no rust issues and also be wry of the head. During 00-01 jeep used what's called the "0331" head and it's very prone to cracking.

 

Should not have any rust issues. Spent entire life in Louisiana and garage kept. How would I check the head?

 

Take the oil cap off of the valve cover. Look for a milky substance on it and a line of the same type between the 3rd and 4th cylinders.

 

Thanks. Ok. I'm trying to learn. I haven't looked at engine yet, but from what I have read, this should be an inline-6. Does this mean all cylinders are in a row from front to back?

 

yes

Keep the cooling system in top condition and you should be ok.

Make sure you tell you daughter "If it overheats shut it off as soon as possible+

 

No speeding and slow down around corners

 

+1 this is what kills them. It is very important that the cooling system be kept up to spec on a 2000 or 2001 and any heating problems, low oil pressure, or abnormal engine noises be dealt with immediately. Aside from this an XJ is a great choice. Reliable, commanding view of the road, but nowhere near as large as other SUVs.

 

I plan to have a mechanic look over it before I purchase. Hopefully he will be able to diagnose any potential problems.

 

This. Drill it into her head that if the needle starts to creep up at all shut it off immediately

 

sounds like an excellent choice for her. nice mileage for the year

 

Should I flush the radiator if I buy it?

 

Change all of the fluids just as cheap insurance. Engine oil with a WIX or Mopar filter, transmission fluid and filter, power steering fluid, brake fluid flush, cooling system flush, and rear differential oil changed. Change the belt and hoses and change the spark plugs and air filter. Inspect the brakes and steering linkage too. It's your daughter's vehicle, make sure it's kept up and reliable.

 

As I stated before, I am trying to learn and am not mechanically inclined. Does this site have DIY step by step for these maintenance tips?

 

This site and others. Youtube.com has a step by step video of everything.

They aren't THAT prone to cracking heads. It's just that the later models are more prone than others. As long as the cooling system is taken care of it'll be fine. If she's anything like my daughter, you'll have to keep an eye on it from time to time. My wife is the same way. I drive her Jeep to work every now and then to make sure everything is alright.