Should I buy this JEEP... ?

[capntang]

The inline-6 was offered in the Grands. They'll have a little more interior space, and the ride may be a little more comfortable (slightly more plush interior, longer wheelbase). You're probably more likely to find features such as antilock brakes on a Grand Cherokee as well.

They'll have a lot more in the way of electrical gadgets, so they might require more constant tinkering. My brother has a couple of ZJs, and it seems as though he spends a lot more time chasing electrical gremlins - some of which prevent the vehicles from starting at all (crappy factory alarm systems on these models).

 

[RoaringBrewer]

The inline-6 was offered in the Grands. They'll have a little more interior space, and the ride may be a little more comfortable (slightly more plush interior, longer wheelbase). You're probably more likely to find features such as antilock brakes on a Grand Cherokee as well.

They'll have a lot more in the way of electrical gadgets, so they might require more constant tinkering. My brother has a couple of ZJs, and it seems as though he spends a lot more time chasing electrical gremlins - some of which prevent the vehicles from starting at all (crappy factory alarm systems on these models).

Thanks, I'm keeping my eye open for the normal Cherokee still (XJ?)... there are two more for me to check out within 20 miles. Just don't have the time to check them out until the weekend.

 

[capntang]

Yeah, anyone who's anyone refers to the jeeps by their "-J" code designation.

Some of the more popular ones listed here:

CJ - precursor to the Wrangler, produced by AMC, many variations
XJ - Cherokee from 84 to 01 and Wagoneer from 84 to 90
MJ - Comanche compact pickup, 88-92
YJ - Wrangler from 87-95, replaced CJ, square headlamps
TJ - Wrangler, replaced the YJ through 07, back to the more nostalgic round lights
ZJ - Grand Cherokee from 93-98
WJ - Grand Cherokee from 99-04, much more Chrysler influence
KJ - Liberty, independent suspension and a minivan-derived V-6

The new models switched to xK designations, but I don't care for any of them. Personally, I'd still kill for a '79 CJ-7 with any of the AMC V8s and a T-18a transmission. I'd only be able to afford enough gas to drive it once a year, though.

 

[RoaringBrewer]

Thanks for the info... definitely looking XJ. Found a few more in the area to check out today... One looks very promising (Black 1999 Cherokee Sport with 3.5" Lift, 31" Tires, 90k Miles, AT, All Power Amenities, Garage-Kept, Two-Owner - all for around $5k), but there are several I am going to check out.

The lift and tires would be nice, the vehicle looks immaculate, but I was planning to NOT mod this vehicle as I already have a "toy"...

 

[bobjenkins79]

I worked at the local Jeep dealership from 2000-2002, and I would absolutely never own a Grand Cherokee. The list of recurring problems is long and expensive.

The Cherokees aren't quite as bad, but it was very common for them to drop window regulators, axle bearings, pinion seals, rear main seals, brake rotors, fuel level sending units/fuel pumps, and especially head gaskets on the inline 4.0Liter.

I'm sure all vehicles have their problems, but I just don't think I could trust a Jeep. Whatever you do, don't buy a Grand.

Sorry if I've rained on your parade.

bob

 

[Chriso]

Man. I'm jealous of you I-6 owners now. My '00 Mountaineer with 5.0 V8 gets 11mpg city and 15mpg highway, with only 90k on it. Summer with the A/C on, it lowers to 8mpg city and 11mpg highway. I can't bear to think what my mileage is going to be like once I've got 150k on it. Damn you Ford!!

Anyways. Back to lurking and wishing I had a Jeep.

 

[cheezydemon]

Hey! I seriously am driving an identical one to the OP. Thought that might be relevent.

 

[Homercidal]

I own a '99 XJ and LOVE it. (Except the mileage). I got it because a friend had a '96 and he gave it to his parents when it rang up 300,000 miles with nary a fault. They are basic, rugged, dependable, and repairable. You will get more problems with certain components, but that is due mostly to the abuse they get.

Mine broke a window regulator, and the same for my 2000 Durango. They used plastic where some real metal was necessary. I replaced myself. I also lost the bearing on my AC Clutch, and replaced myself. That's about it. Just rolled 100K.

I got mine due to having two kids and needing to be able to pull a trailer or small boat, and the 4-wheel is nice in the winter, or if I want to go off the road on occasion.