Jeep Cherokee Forum

Jeep Cherokee 1984-2001: Buying Guide

Before buying your 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ, check out these important car-buying tips.

By Charlie Gaston - August 26, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001).

The Jeep Cherokee is a durable vehicle that receives overall good reviews when it comes to performance and lifespan. Before purchasing a 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee, there are a few considerations you'll want to make. Doing so could not only save you big bucks in the long run, but save you from investing in a Jeep that might not see high mileage. Here's our no-nonsense guide to purchasing a 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee, and what you'll need to consider to get the best deal around!

Things to Look for When Buying

Before purchasing your Jeep Cherokee XJ, there are a few things you'll want to check before agreeing on a purchase price and signing on the dotted line. Here are the most important considerations:

  • Check the brakes. If they're not in great working order, don't panic. Brakes are relatively inexpensive to replace.
  • Check all the fluids, including the transmission fluid, engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and more. If these fluids are dirty and have not been properly maintained and topped up per the owner's manual, the Jeep will not run smoothly (or at all). While you can flush your systems and add new fluids, a lot of irreversible damage may have already taken place, making the vehicle a bad investment.
  • Decode the vehicle identification number (VIN) and thoroughly review how well the previous owner maintained the vehicle. Don't take the seller's word for it. Do your homework!
  • Go under the hood and check the quality of the axle. If it's damaged, you're looking at a repair bill of between $250 and $1,000+.
  • Inspect the transmission, motor and suspension, checking for major damage.
  • As you carefully inspect the major systems, pay close attention to the tie rods and ball joints, which are both part of the steering system, as well as the universal joints or "u-joints" and constant vehicle joints or "CV joints." These can become damaged after 50,000 miles.

Figure 1. Inspecting the vehicle beforehand is highly encouraged.

Take the Jeep for a Spin

The best way to determine if a vehicle is worth its price tag is by jumping into the cabin and taking the vehicle for a spin in the city or on the highway (or both). Here's what to look for while driving a Jeep Cherokee:

  • Do the controls work properly, including the windows, locks and switches?
  • Are the seats comfortable, and do the adjustment bars work?
  • Is the interior and exterior lighting as well as windshield wipes in good working order?
  • Does air push out of the air conditioner at every setting; check the heat settings, as well.
  • Is it is easy to shift into gear, or does the Jeep clunk into gear?
  • Do you notice "death wobble" at speeds of 30 mph or higher? (Death wobble can best be described as a vehicle feeling as if it's about to tear itself a part due to extreme shaking.)
  • Does the Jeep drive straight when you let go of the wheel for a moment?
  • Does the Jeep idle rough or smoothly?
  • How is the cruise control and brakes?
Figure 2. Make sure to test drive!

Before Making the Purchase...

While a Jeep Cherokee is built to surpass the 300,000-mile mark, you still want to be mindful of how many miles are on the vehicle and how well it has been maintained through the years. Here are a few other considerations it's recommended you make before signing a purchase agreement on this durable Jeep:

  • Will you save more in the long run by purchasing a newer model year? For the best drive possible, it's recommended that you stick to 1997-2001 Jeep Cherokees.
  • Are you prepared to foot the bill for common problems that might come up sooner or later on down the line? The Jeep Cherokee is known for having transmission problems, particularly in older vehicles. Consider the price tag of a new transmission before purchasing a Jeep with a less-than-stellar transmission.
  • How much rust is visible on the body as well as under the hood? As a general rule of thumb, rust is a tell-tale sign of trouble and you should stay away.
  • In what condition are the air bags? The total cost to replace air bags could run you between $3,000 and $6,000.
Figure 3. A purchase order/agreement is a binding contract.

Common Questions

What type of engine oil should I use?

Use Mobil 1 Advanced 0W-40 full synthetic.

What is the best way to determine the value of a used Jeep Cherokee?

Kelly Blue Book lists both trade-in values and private-sale values for new and used vehicles, including the 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee. Find this free information on its website. Print versions are also available.

Are there any hidden places I should check for damage?

Check the floor pans underneath the seat for rust. They might need to be replaced. Rust can also be commonly found on the underside and sides of the engine block. Check it, as well, and remove any forms of corrosion using an engine cleaner.

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