I'm trying to make rational sense to my wife as to why I want to sell my perfectly good 2007 fully-loaded Chevy Colorado (that will be paid off in roughly a year) for a used XJ. While I'm still trying to convince her (no car payment, money received from sale of truck to pay down credit card bills, etc.) I have a few questions regarding XJs.

1. Is it the 1999 or the 2000-1 model XJ that has the head issue? I've read both had this issue. In your honest opinion, is this something to truly be wary of or are most of these model years OK? I ask because there is a lot of good XJs around here with low mileage (under 100K) that are the 2000 model.

2. I'm not too handy but I consider myself a quick learner. I've done a couple things on my truck (changing fluids, cleaning throttle body, etc.) but definitely not a gear head. What's the learning curve on these vehicles?

3. Tools. Again, I've got my fair share of tools but none are auto-mechanic grade. What tools do you suggest I invest in if getting an XJ?

4. Before I buy (if I buy, I mean) I plan on bringing the vehicle to a mechanic before I pull the trigger. Does anyone recommend this? Likewise, does anyone know of a good Jeep mechanic (or a website that lists them?) in the New England area?

5. What's the best way to test out the 4x4 when there is no snow on the ground? What should I be looking for when it is engaged?

6. Wouldn't it be cool if Jeep decided to make brand new XJs as a tribute or as an anniversary sale? Sign me up!

Thanks guys for any help! Wish me luck convincing my wife!

 

2000-2001 are most prominent with the head problem, although I have seen 1999s with the head problem. Avoid the casting number 0331 if at all possible.

Jeeps are some of the easiest vehicles to change fluids for. They definitely had some great ease-of-use engineers.

I recommend ratchets, wrenches, torx heads, and screwdrivers. These are the most common tools needed to take apart or repair XJ parts.

Definitely have a mechanic look at it if you don't know how to point out problems yourself.

Jeep 4x4 is engaged and disengaged at will. You will know if it works or not because in 4wd the front end is significantly louder. You should be able to shift on the fly, or at a complete stop while in neutral. If it doesn't disengage quickly, you can use a drive in reverse method after shifting back to 2wd to ensure it disengages.

Definitely wish they made XJs again.

 

X2 on everything thatxjguy said

To check 4wd you can put it in and stop on it of it doesn't spin a rear tire it works :-) they have power and will spin them in 2wd or it will get up and go without wheelspin if its in 4