15th Mar 2005, 17:05

I agree with all of above. Bought my '96 Cherokee from a Jeep specialist a year ago, paid too much (it was in terrific condition for 120K miles) and it's been a blast.

Changed oil to Mobil 1, then had to fix rear main seal leak (no surprise) and changed to synthetic trans fluid. Beyond regular maintenance in the last 20K miles had front brakes with rebuilt calipers (brakes were grabbing), lower temp thermostat fixed heating up problem in hot Texas weather.

It's surprisingly comfortable on long road trips (great seats, some wind noise). Engine is superb! and I'm about to install 62mm throttle body to enhance Flowmaster exhaust that was installed by previous owner. Ride is a little bouncy at times, but it feels like it will hang together forever. On one leg of a road trip I got 25mpg (there was a very strong tail wind) but I didn't by this Jeep for gas mileage. With careful driving can get close to 20mpg.

Concerning tires: right after I bought it I splurged for a set of Pirelli Scorpions. Not much road noise, great handling, OK on wet roads and good on dirt roads. This Jeep is not used for serious off-road stuff (2wd) but it did well on Colorado mountain trails.

It's not a luxury SUV, rear seat is good for adults on short drives or kids on long trips. If you want to impress the valet parking folks buy something else. It's a unique general purpose vehicle.

BTW - previous ride was a 3 series BMW.

7th Dec 2005, 11:34

I have had my Jeep for about a year now and I absolutely love it. There is a little noise and it doesn't heat up that fast, but it is one of the most reliable cars that I have had. I just wish Jeep would come out with something worthy of replacing this venerable machine.

12th Jun 2007, 01:05

I am thinking about buying a 1996 Jeep Cherokee Country for $1900.00. Is this a good deal? Are there any potential problems to look for or be aware of?

Thanks for your help!

5th Sep 2007, 15:55

I just bought my '96 Cherokee, and it is great! I was looking for something else, but this SUV caught my eye. As soon as I looked at it, it seemed to be in very good condition, but I worry about what is next due for servicing or replacement (since it is a 96 model); does anyone know what I need to look at first? It came with a new set of tires (Goodyear Wrangler), and the air conditioner is great (freezing!), and it is comfortable given that I'm 6'. Also, now with my children it is great to have more room; anyway now I'm a jeeper!!! It's good to be in the family!!!

13th Aug 2008, 21:02

I've owned my Cherokee since 1996, and it is the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I have 180,000 miles on it and it seems that 300,000 is well within reach if I can last long enough. It's also a lot of fun to drive.

25th May 2009, 10:45

Hi Jeep Family! I just wanted to post that I've had my Jeep Cherokee Country since 1995, its the 1996 model. It has 234,678 miles on it and is still kickin'. My friends consider it a miracle car because it just keeps on going, and my mechanic says it should be fine going past 300,000 miles. I am a full on Jeep aficionado and truly love that automobile. Certain insignificant things have broken down - doors getting stuck, a few electrical problems - but other than that, the car is good for almost another 100,000 - in my estimation.

2nd Feb 2012, 18:52

I have owned my 1996 Jeep Cherokee Country since 1998. The vehicle has been fantastic. Sure, it has some rust, a sagging headliner and some faded paint, but it runs like new with very little maintenance. Friends always tease me about my old Jeep, except when I am taking them to pick up their car that is in the shop.

Too bad they stopped making this iron horse.