Anybody own a Jeep Grand Cherokee?

I've owned many JGCs and have not had any real problems. Except that I was hit from behind in my '94. The guy was doing about 35mph (I guess) when he hit me. I'm glad I was in it and not the Fcar. I like the WJ style better then the new WK so I just bought another one. I'd go with an '02-'04.... not much difference.

'02 Steering is a bit stiff (fixed in '03)

The best site for info is wjjeeps.com

Here is a pict of mine purchased from Lexus of Tucson site unseen
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Before I bought my current auto I seriously looked into getting a WJ Grand Cherokee. For the most part the issues with them seem to be pretty much relegated to build quality, brakes, and transmission problems. Build quality: fit & finish isn't so good (hell, it's a Chrysler product so that should say everything). Nearly every single one I drove had interior trim pieces broken, missing pieces, window switches not working, et cetera no matter how nice they were. Brakes: I think this had more to do with earlier models, but may have never been completely addressed. Premature wear/warpage of rotors and general wear & tear on brakes. Transmission/drivetrain: Center diff/transfer case isn't quite as beefy as it should be so can wear out early. Granted, I think it is more common in the QuadraTrac models which use the Dana NT49 x-fer case (I think that's the right model number). I believe the SelecTrac equipped ones seemed to have a lot fewer problems in that department (it's also a more usable x-fer case as you can select 2wd). Other than that they're pretty decent vehicles, but I would definitely suggest going with a V8 model (4.7 H.O. if you can find one...ya know, for the power ) as the I-6 is a bit short on power for the size & weight of the vehicle & gas mileage is nearly identical. But don't completely count the I-6 out as it's a great engine and is practically bulletproof as it's been around for a looooong time & still holds it's own.

A good resource for info specifically on the WJ Jeeps is:

www.wjjeeps.com

I'd also suggest checking out a few forums too as there's tons of info there:

www.jeepsunlimited.com
www.jeepforum.com

Good luck in your search.

 

I worked for a rental car company that had lots of WJ Grand Cherokee Laredos. The only problems I remember were with the 4WD binding up in reverse (though not too common), and wheels going out of balance. I think the out-of-balance wheels can probably be attributed to people taking them 4-wheeling.

 

We've got a 2000 Grand Cherokee. It's a 6 cylinder and I have to say I much preferred my '96 Cherokee over this thing.

I hate the transmission, but then I'm not a fan of automatics in general so I'm biased. It's also rather loud - both from wind noise and a driveline/exhaust moan. I sat in teh back seat once and was annoyed at how hard it was to hear the people up front talking.

I also don't like how it drives, but my wife prefers it over my old Cherokee, so that could also be a bias thing.

Bottom line, I'd get a V8 if you have to get a GC. I'm now looking for another Cherokee with a manual transmission myself...

 

I had a real nice one a few years ago. had no problems It was a 99. Ran great until my wife ran it into not one but two walls, When she called I asked if the other person was ok she said she didnt hit anybody, just lost control.

 

I'm now driving my forth Jeep Grand Cherokee. It's a 2002 model called the Overland and is very well equipped and powered by a high output version of the 4.7 liter V8. To date, with 42,000 miles on the odometer, this has been the most trouble free jeep I've ever owned. Their are are few weak spots. The front disc brakes developed warped rotors at only 20,000 miles (a common problem, so I was told). Rotors were replaced because they can't be turned but so far, the problem has not returned. I noticed the chrome plated aluminum wheels started peeling severely at apprx. 37,000 miles and it took a bit of a battle with Daimler / Chrysler to agree to cover most of the replacement cost ( a set of 4 being in the neighborhood of $1800.00!). The Jeep should be maintained according to schedule to minimize problems with the complex all wheel drive but, after all is said and done, I really enjoy driving the Jeep and feel very comfortable in it. Went to drive a 2005 with the new "hemi" engine. It performed beautifully, VERY peppy, quieter running and better riding (finally put independant suspension in front) but, really don't care for the new boxy design of the exterior or the "new" interior either. Probably going to replace it yet this year and may look at the competition's offerings for the first time in many years.