2001 Jeep Cherokee Classic 4.0L from North America
Summary:
Gets me home every time!!!
Faults:
1. U-joints had to be replaced at 40000km. This is because of driving in 4wd on the incorrect surface.
2. At 65000km, the water pump had to be replaced.
3. Rust on roof near the top of the windshield.
4. At 85000km, the front and rear shocks were changed with "Rancho" brand, and the Jeep rides better than ever.
5. Driver's front seat is starting to crack on the sides. Suspect it's from my wife sliding on and off the seat.
6. Misfire on occasion, along with check engine light.
7. 110000km transmission service, front and rear diff service, and transfer case service.
General Comments:
As a mechanic, I chose this vehicle for the versatile, and compact qualities.
The biggest problem I had was the misfire issue at part throttle and when cold. This was not an easy problem to locate, but was fairly simple to resolve. HERE IT IS!!!
The issue with most misfire symptoms, along with "mil" light, was that carbon gets stuck on the exhaust valves, causing reduced compression in that cylinder. Without getting into too much detail, I will tell you that it has to do with the lack of exhaust valve rotators. The purpose of a rotator is to rotate the exhaust valve during the open and close cycle. This will in effect clean the valve face or surface. You cannot install rotators, but to correct this problem remove the valve cover and manually rotate the valves. One will require a valve spring compressor, small mallet, and about 2 hours. This will need to be done whenever there is an unexplained misfire.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 25th March, 2007
28th Feb 2007, 11:51
Can't help with the other issues, but the key problem might be due to the steering lock.
If the steering wheel is hard over against the lock, then this will prevent the key from turning or being extracted. If you move the wheel away from the lock you should be able to turn the key, release the lock, and start the engine.