1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 6 cylinder from North America
Summary:
It's a Jeep thing - Now I understand.
Faults:
Brake problems. RF caliper stuck because the pad was worn down (My fault for not checking!) and I've chased the brake issues ever since. New rotors, pads twice in the last year. I don't think any of this is really a flaw in the vehicle.
Exhaust manifold is cracked. I hear this is common.
RR door lock failed with power locks. I hear this is also common. I just installed a used part bought off EBay.
Dash lights dim out whenever they feel like it. This appears to be the headlight switch module (125.00 OEM). I've seen them on EBay for about 30.00.
Speaking of common problems, I replaced the Air Cond evaporator. The AC quit back in 2003 and I replaced the compressor, dryer and all the AC lines. I finally had to replace the evap. This is a horrible job that I don't recommend anyone ever take on. Ever. Pay somebody. Seriously.
Transmission acts a little weird at highway speeds. Feels and sounds like running over the rumble strips. Haven't determined the cause yet.
I haven't had any engine problems that I can remember.
I bought it wrecked and it needed a rear axle due to the accident. Since then, I've put another axle under it because that one failed at the rear end gear. Not a job for the average owner but I have some family in the business. Incidentally, this did not fix the "rumble strips" problem. I've had that issue for about 3 years.
General Comments:
The ride is a little rough but you are buying a Jeep. If you want a smooth ride, get a luxury car. I have no complaints about the ride considering what it is.
Handling is typical for an SUV.
4X4 is incredible. I won't own a 2 wheel drive ever again.
Overall, I like the look and feel of the Jeep. I bought a jeep after witnessing a collision between a Cherokee and a Crown Victoria. The Crown Vic left on a rollback and the Jeep drove home. I've been in a similar accident in mine and again, the Jeep is built like a tank. It was more than a Ford Ranger could handle!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 29th March, 2008
7th Aug 2009, 07:44
I have a 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ltd. Bought it from a dealership when it was 9 years old. Didn't know about the spider gear problem because I didn't test-drive it.
Replaced the spider gear. A few months later, the water pump. Then the aircon blew out. Had to replace the evaporator.
Two years later, the battery always run flat after a day in the garage or the whole day at the parking lot of the workplace. Neighbor discovered worn-out brake pedal switch. Replaced immediately. Then one day at the petrol station, it wouldn't start after filling. Alternator and battery had to be replaced.
Three years later, it wouldn't start from the garage. It had to be towed. Mechanic said fuel flooding was the culprit. Mechanic replaced ignition wires.
Problem with remote control keys around some areas I believe is caused by radio interference.
Overall I'm still happy with it as all its electronic controls are still working despite the age: thermometer, compass, etc.
I think it's interior is above-average compared to other cars. Most are very plasticky.
My next car? Maybe an all-wheel drive with lower fuel consumption. I like the idea of power on all four wheels but I don't go to the bush. A Volkswagen Tiguan or a Subaru Forester might be a good idea.