Used 1997 Jeep Cherokee Consumer Reviews

OIIIIO thrills

I have a 93 indestructible Cherokee. I just bought this 97 Cherokee, with 245K miles on it. Paid $1500 for him. My 93 is a standard this 97 is an automatic. IF you can find one get one. I easily expect to get 300 K out of this Jeep. I have 2 new cars a 4runner and a Pontiac, but would rather drive my 97 Jeep any day than these due to the fact "he" is solid as a rock. If the powers that be ever read these blogs , they would re invent these Jeeps, and would have a new following, I love mine and dread the day (if ever) I get rid of it.

I LOVE THIS THING!

I'm completely in love with my cherokee. I have over 260k miles on it, all ive really had to do is preventative care and regular maintance. Its one of the best values I've ever seen. I wish I would of bought two. It is without a doubt one of the best daily drivers out there.

Fun on the road

The Jeep Cherokee combines a very functional SUV with an attractive car. It's simple styling is timeless. Durability is outstanding with the truck suspension(not a fluff SUV wannabee). The ground clearance is great. So far, I've had no problems with the Cherokee and use it for everyday driving and hauling an 18" pleasure boat.

Endless reliability internally, falling apart externally

I've had my cherokee for roughly 4 years now, bought it used at 120,000 miles, and I have yet to even touch the motor in terms of repairs. It is a modern day sherman tank mechanically. I've obviously had to replace my share of wear and tear parts such as the alternator, tie rods, brakes, etc. But never anything on the motor, or even the transmission for that matter. Unfortunately, as with all cars, it is falling apart at the seams in terms of appearance. The bumper fell off the other day for no reason, and it has a crackle when idling (most likely the catalytic converter). Its a pretty big gas guzzler as well. All around I'd say it is the perfect "point A to point B" vehicle.

The Jeep Thing

I bought it in 2008 and has 112k miles and i`m tge 2nd owner,never used 4 off- road,4.0,4x4,5 speed(oh yeah i want to change gear when i want to),MPG- 19 city,24 highway at 70 mph,20 towing a u- haul tralier.Never had any major repairs i replaced the shocks,breaks,all fluids,wiper blades,installed a cd player and also new speakers with amp all on weekends...grab a beer and save money doing that 4 fun.Easy to work on,fun to drive,to park,lot of space inside,best suv for the money.If u want to save money on gas ride a bicycle...want a smooth ride buy a BMW,but the JEEP is the way to go everywhere.

Wish they still made them

I love the look of this model. Very rugged and simple. Nowadays, SUVs have been designed for soccer moms and this thing actually looks like it was designed for a little more than picking up some milk. I bought my Cherokee used last year as a second vehicle for winter use and have invested some money into the suspension. It has 140,000 km on it and the engine/transmission and 4WD all run like a charm. The only problem I have is the computer acting up during the cold months of winter, but has no problems in summer. Gas mileage is not the best and rides a little rough overall. I know it wasn't meant to be a smooth riding gas sipper, but it is a little harsher than you'd expect.

Jeepers--no creepers

Good value. Reliable. Excllent off- road. 4.0 liter is plenty of power, even if towing a camper. Heater is great--quick to heat up. Best 4X around for my money. Full size spare is a necessity if going off road. A great family car.

Great Vehicle!!

156K+ miles and she is solid and strong. I am very pleased with the reliability of this truck (former honda, vw, nissan driver), and try to maintian the basic services, oil changes, ect. 20.5mpg +/- 0.7 on 87 Octane. One minor problem with the wiring rubbing under the Power Distribution box, which affected the aux electric cooling fan, but following a $100 repair, she has required no other expenses. Strong recommendation as a sturdy no frills vehicle. Driven every day in AZ heat 110+ with no overheating.

Love it, can't find anything better

I have owned this Jeep for 11 yrs. No other vehicle I have had will cruise at 80 on the interstate, then take the extreme trails in the OHV park like they were nothing. I bought a Mini Cooper and it's a good thing I kept the Jeep-way more dependable and a lot cheaper to fix than the Mini. I've hauled building materials, pulled out chain-link fencing and stumps, still on the original clutch at 126,000 miles. It has never left me on the side of the road or refused to start. All I have had to do is routine maintenance, lube oil and filter, brakes (once), and a water pump. I've decided to put some money into paint and new carpet etc. and just keep driving it.

Love my Cherokee

Absolutely love my Jeep Cherokee. It has 230k miles on it and no serious mechanical issues. The automatic transmission is fantastic (AW4). I used to hate Jeeps, but after having this thing I want to buy more and more. It isnt the most comfortable SUV, but if you're looking for a reliable, good looking Jeep then look no further. The 4.0L is notoriously reliable. I have a 2006 Commander with 100k miles and my 230k Cherokee gives me less problems. When things do go wrong, parts are cheap and with an afternoon pretty much anything can be fixed. If you can find one in the South you dont have to worry about rust. I will never get rid of my Cherokee, maybe just buy more. My favorite Jeep every made

Second one...

97 Cherokee with 154k. Rebuilt the cooling system last year at 145k, the first time it was touched. Virtually indestructible, it's done everything asked of it. It's a Jeep..not quiet..not smooth..just good road manners & traction to spare. We always keep a Jeep around for deep snows and the 97 is far better than the 95 we had before. If you need a pack mule to pull or haul & get decent mileage, consider a Cherokee.

There is nothing like a Jeep

First, I am seeing a lot of reviews that are using gas mileage as a negative. I get 17mpg in the city and 21+ on the highway and thats with the 4.0L straight 6. It's a SUV...thats great!! Unstoppable off-road. Backseat slightly uncomfortable, but just fine for short trips. If want to drive a legend...get a Jeep.

It was my dream car, but....

After two years, the Jeep reputation reared its ugly head. The AC is continually broken. The cd player and sunroof are dead. The roof lining is sagging, the windows leak. It rattles and chirps (and not only off- road). The automatic transmission has very bad days. The side bumper strips are falling off. And, mysteriously, the front driver's side door has begun to rub against the nose-side panel, slowly denting it inward. I adore it...but will soon face the fact that I'm pouring money into a bottomless pit. (sigh....)

97 Cherokee

I took care of it and it's been great.

Bring The Jeep back

I bought my Jeep with 13900 miles and have been working it. From road trips to upstate New York to towing car/trucks. It has never left me stranded no matter what breaks. I could not have asked for a more dependable vehicle. At 171000 miles and a beating that would tear most trucks in half its time to let her go.

Loved mine!

I bought my jeep back in 2002 with 90k miles ALREADY on it! I just got rid of it at 205k miles to get a new Jeep Patriot 4x4. Awesome transition. I loved my Jeep, super dependable, great 4x4 performance, perfect cargo space, etc. Had to deal with water pumps, radiators, catalytic converters, and all other wear and tear of the car, but it lasted me 205k miles and it is STILL running strong. Go get one with low miles if you can find one

Jeep Cherokee Country

One of the best cars I've owned. A little wind noise that I would prefer to not have. At 153,000 miles, it's worth far more to me than the trade in value offered.

Great!

Its a great vehicle...It rides so smooth on the freeway. I used to own a 94 Blazer, and it just would shake and rattle around. Whole new story here! Very smooth -- and even more powerful. Great stuff!

A true SUV

I purchased my Jeep Cherokee sport a year ago and I love it. Despite getting bad gas mileage (16 mpg city), I realize that this is an SUV, so it's understandable. The only complaint I have is that the engine is extremely loud and roaring. Otherwise, it's a very sturdy car. It accelerates well, has great steering, has comfortable front seats, and pretty good road traction. The real fun begins when you go off road, though. This is not an SUV for someone who really needs a station wagon (aka Ford Explorers, Expeditions). The ride on rocky ground with bumps is surprisingly smooth. This is a classic, REAL SUV that will remain a favorite of mine. And, what's cooler than having a JEEP?

Beware

My Jeep has had nothing but problems. Radiator cracked, windows leak, doesn't start most of the time. I have replaced many sensors, hoses, and more. Has had about $4,000 put into it and still doesn't run well. Hasn't held up like I expected. Has a little over 100,000 miles.

1997 Cherokee Sport

Very fun all around vehicle. In town its the perfect little grocery getter. Turns sharper than my Accord. Also great acceleration. Up in the high country it has been very good offroad in place most other suvs can't go. What I have replaced so far is the radiator and TPS sensor but that has just been in the last 5,000 or so miles and it is at 157,000 right now. It has been good to me for the last 10 years and I hope to keep it for another 10.

Jeep

Love this baby! Can't seem to want to trade it in. I have put 170,000 on it. Very minor problems such as water pump,starter, and oxygen sensor. Other than that, oil, gas and tires. It gets the gas mileage that it should get for a 4.0 engine. People who complain need a smaller car not a SUV! This baby is fast too.

Own a Jeep !

Very very good car

Great engine and transmission but rest sucks

I bought my 1997 Jeep Laredo 4 Dr Cherokee used in 2010 for $3400 with a busted odometer showing about 75,000 miles. Now it is Feb. 2018 and the odometer shows over 100k (it is underrecording mileage, but does work). I am retired and am the only driver, and drive it mainly 3-5 times a week for local meetings, with the longest trip being perhaps 60 miles. It still has the original shocks, 6-cylinder engine and automatic trans. The engine and trans still run well, but everything else goes to hell and it is only 20 years old and not abused. I had to have the starter replaced and it cost over $500. Compare that to my 1965 Mustang where many more parts still work vs this Jeep. The speakers go in and out - not sure if they are stock. The headliner has fallen out, so I had to pull it all out after trying to glue it back up. The 4WD didn't shift right in 4WD after I got it, so I have been afraid to use it since then. This Jeep didn't have a tow bar, so I installed one and was surprised it cost over $400. Then Jeep had a recall due to gas tank safety, and the fix was to install factory tow hitches, but I already had one. The dark green paint clear coat has "crizzled" so it is flat (it does sit outside). The rear two door electric windows failed soon after I got it, and it cost me $400 to fix that. The mechanic said Jeep cheaped out on the switches so they always fail. The horn has failed, and apparently it is because the switch is in the steering wheel airbag, and you have to replace the costly air bag to just ensure the horn works. The dome lights go in and out. The return spring and bushing in the driver door hinge has fallen apart, so the door squeeks each time it is opened. It is on a welded fixture, so can't easily be replaced. The left rear door window just fell out of the track and down into the door. I finally had to just wedge it to stay up and had to disable that switch I had put in earlier. The driver seat material has failed and ripped. I hit a truck with a trailer hitch at about 5 mph and the entire front plastic bumper fell off. Had to re-attach it with screws. The bumper "black" finish has gone ugly flat. Apparently, like the paint, it wasn't designed to last past 15 years. I recently had to tow the vehicle becuase a fuse blew, and found there was absolutely NO tow hook or place under the front of the vehicle. So I hooked the chain to a steering bar for a short 8 block tow and bent the rod, costing $600 to fix. So, I will continue driving this until the engine or trans fail then junk it. I will never buy a Jeep again because their quality control and longevity of many lesser parts and electrical systems suck. They are great to drive in the heavy Florida rains, but not that great to put up with bad quality in a lot of small things. Before buying a Jeep or any other vehicle, be sure to check for Federal government recalls to know what they are.

Great Jeep

Good Jeep!

My Jeep was given to me for my 17th birthday present, I like it a whole lot, accept for the low gas mileage, and the rough ride. My o2 sensors went out and I needed a new caddy converter. One more thing is my seats are beginning to squeak a lot but other than those its a fun car!

I Used To Love It!

It was 3 years old when we purchased it. I have loved my jeep for many years but 3 years ago (100,000 miles) we had a problem with it continually overheating. That led to a new engine, new radiator, etc. Also, have had to have 2 window motors replaced, tranny lines replaced and thankfully (sort of) before the 3 yr/36000 mile warranty on the new engine expired it cracked the head. That was replaced and now it is again overheating. I've had it!

My 2nd Jeep

Got 225,000 miles on my 1992 Jeep and needed a replacement - this was as close as I got - its already done 97,000 miles - I like this basic Jeep, its a no-nonsense SUV. The wife and I find the seats realy comfy, and now we have cupholders and remote heated mirrors. Also like the factory tow package and 2" receiver. We use this Jeep in the snow, in the city, and in the desert and high-Sierras back- country

Good

I bought this Jeep "on impulse" because I needed something to drive. The 4.0l engine is incredible at 285k miles and I haven't put any work into it. Does great off road and I drive the hell out of it. Real steal and I look forward to driving it for a while!

1997 - a Good Year

I bought my 1997 Jeep Cherokee new in 1997. It has a straight six engine, manual transmission - no frills. What a workhorse - It has well over 200,000 miles and all it has ever needed were oil changes, tires and windshield wipers. It doesn't get any better than this. When the engine goes I may get it rebuilt since the straight six is easy to rebuild.

war wagon

Purchased jeep when I joined the army. I really didn't care for it at first but figured I needed a 4x4 for the colorado winters, after I really abused it off road over and over again I fell in love with it now I will never get rid of it. I have put 180,000 hard miles on it with no major repairs. I actually feel bad for the way I treated it because it never let me down. Has good power and great 4x4 going places where my buddies lifted trucks cant or end up high centered. Still cant figure out why they ended it. Not very smart.

Like the Energizer bunny, it keeps going

Always wanted a Cherokee since high school and it came true about 7 years ago. Bought it with 60,000, in RED no less and with the 4.0. Picked a 2wd (less weight/better fuel econ). Repairs have been few: water pump;radiator;gas pump;starter. Take good care of it and it will last forever!

Very Nice Older SUV

This is a great vehicle! I have had it for about 4 months now and I love it. I have never had a SUV so this is my first and I love this compact SUV. It has quiet a bit of power for a SUV. When I bought it, it came with 31 x 10.50 tires. So the gas mileage is right at 17mpg. But I like the big tires when I am four wheelin. This SUV is truely a Jeep, it does go just about anywhere! It is a very capable four wheel drive vehicle!

Love it, but hate it

I love my Jeep, even though the gas mileage is not very good. It's great in snow and rain. I've had few problems with it, but few too many to ignore. Radiator had to be replaced due to the seam splitting, gas tank sensor had to be replaced, and now my rear hazard signals go on when I put my left turn signal on. I can' find a dealership that will can fix, and I called Jeep Customer service and they were no help. I failed inspection because of this and I'm at a loss with what to do.

"Jack-of-all-trades" yet master of many

I've had my Cherokee for almost two years now and I still love it. Only problems I've had have been the O2 senser and a R134a leak (which is still not solved). No major problems (knock on wood). Bullet proof off-road capiblity. One of the fastest SUVs out there. Buy one and join the family!

best bet in class

I drive my 97 Cherokee Country pretty hard. Never had any issues; gas mileage isn't great but I knew that when I decided to get an SUV. This thing accelerates great out of the gate, is comfortable on the highway and is unstoppable off-road. I challenge anyone to get this thing stuck.

I love my Jeep

The Jeep has been dependable, reliable and a great fun to drive. I have enjoyed my Jeep and very sad to let it go. I wish these vehicles were still in production. If so, I would have bought another just like it. The engine light came off and on, but you learn this was just a malfuction and nothing mechanically wrong. My wife never like the ride, but she just could not appreciate it.

Still good for the money

The negatives first: - noisy - poor ride - horrible gas quality Positives: - excellent, bare bones, interior design - superb off-road performance - superb winter (snow & ice) performance - 112,500 miles and still no major repairs

Don't buy this thing

I drove this car/truck twice a week. I had only 62k on it and here's what went wrong: water pump, fuel pump (3 times), belt, alternator, radiator, oh and the engine (head gasket and bearings). Each of these problems happened with about a month of each other. Cons: When it didn't break down it rode very rough, like a truck. It was noisy and the gas mileage could be 20 mpg if you were going 55 and had no wind. If you drive normally (70mph), then gas mileage dips down to about 15mpg. Doesn't have a split rear seat. The engineering is horrible. Pros: Climbs hills pretty good. Is good in the snow, if you have good tires I hated this POS, you will too.

Voted 4x4 of the year for a reason

My 1997 Cherokee has been the most fun to drive vehicle I have owned, it has 160,000 miles, runs perfectly and gets 20 MPG. I would recommend to anyone who isn't scared of a solid axle ride, and someone who doesn't care about useless interior gadgets to get a Cherokee, you won't be disappointed if you take care of it.

outstanding vehicle

this is the best car i have ever owned! Within the last 12 months I have driven in a blizzard (One of only two cars that was able to get around), driven through a desert, driven from sea level to 14,000 feet high and not one problem. the jeep heats up quickly in cold weather, the ac works wonders in hot temps and its roomy enough to carry a family around town if you wanted it too.

Cherokee's are not real Jeeps?

I loved my Cherokee of course it stunk on gas, but what did you expect? It's 4.0 w/ 8.25 rear axle, awd transmission, you know what that means? As close to flawless as Jeep or any other car company is going to get. It was perfect in size. The only real flaw was it had leaf springs. If you add a lift be prepared for a bad ride.

Hunk of Junk

Almost the day the warranty ran out, this hunk of junk has been nothing but a headache. I bought this jalopy new and in the last year have had to have the tranny rebuilt, a new water pump, a new power steering pump, a new radiator, and now the evaporator needs replaced. Enough already! I am buying a 4Runner.

Only in a Jeep

My '97 cherokee Sport has 119,000k and still running. Not as peppy around town as the older models. Great stock off- road capability. I have a few problems like a cracked exhaust manifold,and a vacuum leak. I only get 14 miles per gallon. I have plans to trade it in for a 1996.

Good Vehicle

I've 237,000 plus miles on this vehicle. Major repairs include clutch replacement (twice), fuel pump, radiator, water pump, air conditioning (freezes up intermittently, still does), and I've replaced the battery harness once. Despite these repairs, it's been a great utility truck for driving on construction job sites. I love power of base inline 6 engine. I've gotten consistently 23 mpg. average city/hwy. If Jeep makes this vehicle again, I would buy another one. It's a classic.

Timelessly Classic!

I own a 1997 Cherokee with the 4.0 I6 and 5 Speed Manual. I Bought it sight unseen with 63,000 miles on it for $6,000 and drove it 3,000 miles from Brooklyn, NY to home in Salt Lake City in 2 days in 2018. I bought the car to ultimately drive it from Salt Lake City to Deadhorse, Alaska and back again in 10 days, an 8,000 mile trip, 800 miles a day totaling 150 hours of driving. Prior to, I replaced all the aged and badly rusted suspension, axle, and driveline components. Then replaced all external moving and non-moving accessories to the short block motor; $6,000 in preventative maintenance and upgrades including front Eaton E-locker and rear Trac-Lok. I had to trust this baby with my life! It was early April 2019 en route on the Alaska Highway and then the Dalton Highway, below zero, and 1,000 miles was unpaved highway with no services including cell service. The XJ never let me down. I’ve taken the Jeep on intense trails at Moab, driven it on other 2,000 mile road trips to Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Idaho. I love this Jeep. I usually drive it over my 6.4L Challenger, 5.7L Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, and my F-250. The XJ has a few electrical nuisances with the locks, but it’s 24 years old! Starts like a champ. Goes 80 mph like a champ. Lots of torque. I can achieve up to 24 mpg on the freeway with no headwind, in the summer. On 8,000 mile Alaska trip i calculated exactly 20.5 mpg with winter fuel in freezing temps. Fun awesome SUV.

Indestructible

4.0 HO runs awesome 173k and keeps on running 👍

Old faithful

Mines been thru 330k miles & a major wreck still runs & drives absolutely fine. super easy to work on yourself & very tough.