Jeep: Need reviews for 2000 Jeep Cherokee

On Wed, 09 Mar 2005 22:29:00 -0500, san <com> wrote:
 

Google online for reviews. A review for pretty much any Cherokee from
1997 to 2000 would apply as mechanically they are all pretty much the
same vehicle.

All of the usual used-car buying stuff applies (a long checklist of
things to look at, find it online 'cause I'm sure not retyping it all
here).

Also make sure you can take it up to about 70-75mph somewhere and see
if it has the 70mph shudder or "death wobble" (again, Google for it).
If it has it, believe me you'll know!

Make sure the reverse lights come on. If they don't you may wind up
rebuilding the Neutral Safety Switch (or buying a new one for $300).
The rebuild isn't too tough, but it is a pain in the ass.

Check all the fluid levels (of course) and also take along a set of
Allen wrenches and check the fluid level/condition in the transfer
case (open the TOP plug) I want to say it's a 10mm wrench but darned
if I can remember right now. The fluid in there should be
transmission fluid.

Common issues...
-Fuel gauge doesn't read correctly
-"Death Wobble"
-CPS (crank position sensor) issues (again, Google it)
-Bad "o" ring seal on the gas cap (no I'm not kidding, it's a
pressurized fuel system and this can cause a "check engine" light and
a lot of other annoying issues.
-Overheating (the I6 runs pretty hot)

It's a Jeep... Fix it, drive it, break it, repeat <grin>.

Something else I recommend even if you don't think you need it is a
steering box brace like this
http://rustysoffroad.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=rustys&Product _Code=JB-XJ75&Category_Code=ste
I've put one of these on three different Cherokees and seen a mild to
dramatic improvement in the steering behavior on all of them, even
the stock one with regular sized tires (mine).


Drifter
"I've been here, I've been there..."