1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee limited from North America

Summary:

The best SUV around

Faults:

I have had my Jeep for almost 4 years now and it has been one of the best vehicles I have ever owned.

There have been only minor problems with it. For example the drivers side heated seat doesn't work and the custom settings for the seats, mirrors, and radio, don't work anymore. I have had absolutely no problems with the engine, transmission, or anything of the sort.

It is one of the most comfortable to ride in. It handles winter roads, that is if you actually know how to drive a vehicle, and don't drive like a lunatic.

I would definitely stick with the Jeep Grand Cherokee limited.

General Comments:

This SUV is smooth riding, comfortable, and an excellent investment.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 15th February, 2003

11th Feb 2007, 08:44

You didn't mention which engine you have- makes a big difference!

1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4.0L 6 Cylinder from North America

Summary:

This truck is a money pit

Faults:

The rear end went at 80,000 miles.

The transmission went at 83,000 miles.

The radiator and cooling lines were replaced when the transmission was rebuilt.

The power steering pump died TWICE at about 105,000 miles.

This truck STILL runs/starts rough despite a complete tune up.

General Comments:

The difference one year makes is amazing. My wife has a 1997 Grand Cherokee that has needed minimal maintenance in addition to scheduled maintenance.

Despite several tech bulletins issued pertaining to the transmission and rear end, Daimler Chrysler has offered NOTHING for my troubles and expenses.

Very poor customer service from the dealer AND manufacturer.

I will NEVER buy another Jeep.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 30th January, 2003

10th Jun 2003, 23:31

Sounds like you got the lemon of the bunch. Mine runs excellent, even after 80,000 miles, on and off road. Sorry you've had so many problems.

15th May 2005, 11:20

You know, all I hear for excuses for poor American car quality is you got a "lemon". If there was good quality, there wouldn't be any "lemons". They're all built the same way. I bailed on ALL American cars in '82 and I've had no major car problems since then. My step-son wants to buy a second hand JGC so I decided to go on here and check the reviews. Sorry I can't change his mind and I'm afraid he's gonna get burnt. Thanks Detroit!!

29th Aug 2005, 10:20

I have had some isuue's with my JGC and I am getting very frustrated with it and like the other comment, my mother had a '97 and no major problems. So far at 75-80,000 miles I had to replace the radiator and at 95,000 miles I replaced the exhaust from the cat-back, but I still have an exhaust leak, the alternator, battery, all shocks and suspension is screwed up, and I believe my trans. is going it never shifted right from day one. Also I had an electrical problem- if I had the radio on my battery gage would go all the way up and my ABS light has also come on a few times. I love the truck despite all the problems I paid $11,000 for it and it's gonna end up being a $20-25,000 vehicle and I don't know if it's really worth it.

1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4.0L Six from North America

Summary:

Expensive, but worth it - luxury in a true 4x4!

Faults:

The rear hatch rattled quite badly until I adjusted the striker plate. It cannot be adjusted any more and will require a new plate once it wears more.

Catalytic converter went at 43000 km, but still under warranty.

I noticed the front differential seal was leaking when checking the catalytic converter.

Center console between driver and passenger seat cracked inside and had to put large washers under the screws to hold it in place.

I had a stalling problem that was intermittent. This was due to heavy grime on the positive and negative battery posts and seems to have subsided since cleaning them. I think this is because of the Grand Cherokee's ability to throw lots of water up inside the engine compartment when going through puddles at medium to high speeds.

The rear windshield wiper keeps seizing up at the first joint due to all the road dirt that swirls around.

General Comments:

The gas mileage is awful, but I imagine it has a lot to do with the fact my previous car was a Honda and I tend to drive the Jeep fairly hard.

It's expensive to maintain and seems to suffer from a lot of little mechanical problems that to the non-do-it-yourself type can be expensive.

I love the luxury compared and comfort.

Changing the passenger side headlight should be easier than it is.

But I love taking it off roading - especially in the deep snow.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th January, 2003