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Used 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Consumer Reviews

4.1 out of 5 stars
128 reviews

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Pros
Cons
4 out of 5 stars

Jeep

Brandon, 12/30/2015
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
22 of 22 people found this review helpful

Well this jeep is highly dependable, but there are quite a few sensors that tend to go bad and cause it to stall/lose power/misfire. Main things I have had to replace are Crankshaft Position sensor, fuel pump, and Idle air control valve. Gas mileage is great for a 1997 SUV. If you own one make sure you do a lot of research if something is going wrong with it. I have found tons of help from jeep forums guiding me to what my problem is.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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4.63 out of 5 stars

Can't expect much more

Bull, 10/25/2010
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
14 of 14 people found this review helpful

Bought in 98 to replace small pick-up, smart buy; still primary vehicle. Have 240K and it literally runs like it did, with little effort. Inline 6 is awesome engine. Around 225K gas mileage began to fall, didn't run smooth. Changed idle air control valve sensor and throttle body sensor (both less than $80) and got back its original mileage & performance. Had trans rebuilt @162K, changed radiator, water pump, some other minor I did myself. The inline 6 is a good buy. Friend has 96 with 483K still running & driving.

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5 out of 5 stars

What a ride

David Wayne Given, 09/18/2016
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
19 of 20 people found this review helpful

What a spectacular vehicle. It has been with me many miles. I drove it to Florida and back then to California and all around Green River in the winter of 2015. Then from Green River back home. It has been my entertainment center, my dinning room, my bedroom, my changing room, my home away from home my refuge in the wilderness and in times of trouble my sanctuary where I have prayed and poured my heart out to God in supplication and fervent prayers during times of trouble

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.63 out of 5 stars

Impressed with the 4.0

BBull, 11/13/2010
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
12 of 13 people found this review helpful

Purchased used in 98 with 28K miles, still driving with 242K. Very impressed with the inline 6. Have replaced water pump, EX manifold, computer, etc. mostly myself for low cost. Trans rebuild at 152K. Recently changed idle air control valve and throttle body sensor; got back to average 19MPG in city & 23 MPG HWY. Solid engine, would recommend the inline 6 and would buy again but this one is till running literally like it was 12 years ago.

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4 out of 5 stars

Bad Rear Differential

eric, 12/13/2008
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Orvis 4dr SUV 4WD
7 of 8 people found this review helpful

I bought this drift-wood colored V8 Orvis at 55000mi, and have put 113000 more on it. Brakes are a bit weak. Careful driving helps a lot. I occasionally haul light utility trailer-loads and have replaced rear differential at 75 and 160 miles. A/C controller went at 150 miles. Lift gate sprung leaks, causing light/alarm problems. E-Brake very weak. Can drive easily with it engaged. Engine still strong. Tranny original. Body very good. Some interior screws work loose. One and 1/2 speakers blown. Rear wiper frozen forever. Good truck to 140,000. Fuel mileage 13 US city, 19 at 75 mph, measured. Paint/exterior holding up really well. exhaust and entire front- end original (one link replaced at 94)

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5 out of 5 stars

Great 4 the $$$

Marshizzle, 09/30/2009
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I bought my Jeep around Christmas 07 and its been a daily driver since. 255k when I bought it, now has 298k &still runs like hell. The 4.0 is bullet proof and so is the rest of the machine. I frequent the local mudhole/trails and drive this Jeep. It gives me no problems and will not get stuck. I also have a 96 limited Jeep w/ a 5.2 & all pwr that gives me constant problems, so stick with the simple model. Remember to change the fluids!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

178,000 miles and adding more

BYRKSTER, 07/11/2010
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
5 of 6 people found this review helpful

I love my 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee! I found her next to a garage covered in green goo, from setting underneath some pine trees for -FOUR- years, asked the owner if they were interested in selling, they said yes. I paid $700.00, stuck in a new battery and she fired up and I took off down the road towards my garage. “Let the fun begin” Flushed all the systems, changed the exhaust, brakes, rotors, calipers, shocks, fluids, sparks plugs, wires, cap & rotor, all had rusted, but after four years setting she still ran great! Took more time cleaning the exterior then actual replacing parts, but she turned out great!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Nice

Ken, 08/12/2009
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I got mine in 99 with about 60k on it. Mine is equipped with the 5.9 and the quadradrive, full time 4 wheel drive. this thing is your foul weather friend and nearly unstoppable. It just rolled 290,000 last weekend and with regular maintenance there is another 200k left in it. I still have the factory water pump factory fuel pump and original transfer case. Change your fluids my friends. It has never let me down and really never broke except for the A/C in 04 but who cares. I go off road and play in the mud so I beat this old thing. I tow with it including one 250 mile trip with a 8000 pound trailer way way over the weight limit and aside from poor breaking no heat issues. well worth it.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

Good thing I got a warranty!

jon f., 06/04/2005
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee TSi 4dr SUV 4WD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I thought I was getting the perfect used car: less than 70,000 miles and a 3,000 mile powertrain warranty. Turns out I've needed to use the warranty three times already - once to replace the PCM, another to replace a bad steering gear, and now to replace bearings in the front differential - all withing the first month! I'm scared of what will come down the road. It's too bad - I love the truck and it's very good at what it does. It looks great in silver, the leather interior is fantastic and it gets 22-23 mpg at 65mph. Off-road nothing can touch it for the money! If you want one, research the maintenance history and make sure the TSB's were done!

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2 out of 5 stars

"Bullet Proof?????!!!!!" ...I think NOT!!!

ACM, 07/29/2015
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
9 of 13 people found this review helpful

***Let me preface this review by stating that this vehicle was well maintained, not abused, before and after I bought it*** I've owned my 97 Grand Cherokee Laredo for 5 years now and it has been, by far, the worst vehicle I've ever owned (and I've owned a lot). Let's start with the... Exterior: mine is the green/gold color and the paint has been peeling off of the top and hood since before I bought it (primer failure/paint defect). The driver's door hinge is worn out and the door sags. I went through an automated car wash and the clear plastic face of both head headlights fell off (?!) so I had to replace them. Safety Issues: There is a factory recall because of a chance of the Jeep exploding if hit from the rear (?!) Electrical Issues: The Crankshaft Position Sensor failed (also a common issue with these Jeeps) and left me stranded on a secluded stretch of road for 4 hours - my mechanic thought it was the fuel pump, so I ended up buying a fuel pump AND the CPS. The Jeep developed an issue where it would sporadically stall (usually at the LEAST convenient time and location) and wouldn't crank back up for 2 minutes. After replacing multiple parts over the course of 8 1/2 months and almost getting killed several times as it stalled in the middle of a busy intersection, it was determined that there was a bad connection with a wiring harness that plugs into the Powertrain Control Module (also a design flaw). A series of zip ties and wooden wedges behind the PCM fixed that problem. The instrument lights flicker off and on while driving with the lights on, because of loose electrical connection somewhere. The AC fan only works on the 3 lowest settings (not on High) unless you jiggle the wiring harness behind the glove compartment. Drivetrain: I had to replace the rear axle because the carrier bearing housing broke (and apparently this is common on these jeeps). The transmission slips and leaks. I had to replace the water pump twice, the cooling fan twice and the radiator. I've replaced the starter twice. The freeze plug on the back of the head developed a small leak that I didn't catch until the Jeep ran hot and blew the head gasket and cracked the head (I was in the middle of a long bridge and couldn't pull over). This head freeze plug rusting out is also (supposedly) a design flaw with the 4.0... something about the factory casting sand getting lodged around it, causing it to rust. Other: the carpet on the passenger floorboard is constantly wet because of a design flaw with the ac condenser drain tube. All 5 of the door lock actuators (rear lift gate too) stopped working/disintegrated because they are cheaply made. ...I'm sure I've missed something... there has been so much I've been through with this Jeep... never again will I own a Chrysler product. My Ford Expedition - same year (97) with 250k+ miles... I've owned it for 13 years and I'VE REPLACED THE SPARK PLUGS AND WIRES!!! PERIOD!!!

Safety
2 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Interior
2 out of 5 stars
Comfort
2 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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4.63 out of 5 stars

Would NOT Consider any other SUV BUT....

ALLRealtySolution, 12/21/2009
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

If it is a reliable, safe SUV you are looking for, then Cherokee should be your choice. We have owned jeeps since 91 and have had on since. We have a 97 GCL and LOVE IT! The clock JUST turned over 100K... We figure it should last for OVER 300K! So we may have it until 2040 something. lol VERY RELIABLE... VERY SAFE... AND FUN TO 4X4!!

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4.25 out of 5 stars

220,000 miles and still going !!!!!

Shane, 10/10/2009
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I have had my jeep over 10 years no major problems...just minor things...very comfortable...I have 220,000 miles and still going...I want a newer one but I just want to see how long this one will last...highly recommend one...

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Love it

Rob9512, 11/10/2009
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Bought as a second vehicle for winter/save miles on other car. Love this thing. Fun to drive, full time 4wd, good power, comfortable interior, ect. Probably one of my favorite vehicles to drive. Has been reliable so far, it's a Jeep so I expect nothing less than very reliable and thus far is exactly what I've got.

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5 out of 5 stars

If it's not a 4.0,just say know!

Glen88, 07/04/2019
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

**97 Grand Cherokee Laredo Limited 4.0 2wd ** I bought it from the original owner 2yrs ago,with everything all original..It now has 235k on it with ZERO issues..the only part I've replaced was a TPS..The 4.0 still runs like new and trans shifts like a dream..a little ROUTINE MAINTENANCE goes a long way..as for the interior/exterior,the leather seats are still great(with the exception of drivers,normal wear) and paint is still perfect

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.88 out of 5 stars

97 Jeep grand

Dave, 04/19/2009
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The Jeep was the best auto I ever owned. I have owned over 40 different types of autos, not one can reach he style and grace of my SUV. It looks good under the lights and driving in a blizzard. It is as a safe a high profile vehicle.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great 1st car

ro88i3, 11/20/2013
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Orvis 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I saved up and bought this jeep with 168,000. It had a major transmission leak and oil leak but with some seals and elbow grease they were fixed. The heated seats and rear wiper are still not working. The sunroof doesnt work but the engine and 4wd system works amazing. I can go down muddy roads while sitting in the comfortable leather seats and listen to the radio. It had 3!!! blown speakers when i bought it. I love the jeep and ill keep it forever! The only thing that I dont like about it is the MPG 15 at best. WOW!

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5 out of 5 stars

The ultimate multi purpose vehicle!

Big Willie, 01/27/2020
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This is the most versatile vehicle I have ever owned. Low maintenance and operation costs and rock solid durability make this a solid vehicle

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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1.38 out of 5 stars

Will never own another Jeep

EBJ, 09/29/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Purchased new in Jan 1997, ran out of gas Feb 1997 due to inoperative gas gauge. Brakes, replaced, windshield leak, repreated visits to dealership to no avail. Currently in 2002, new brakes again $400.00. March, transmission went. Since truck was over 3 years, no help from Daimler- Chrsyler; cost $4,000.00. August 2002, turn signal, winshield wiper computer gone; $200 repair. Sept 2002, fuel pump in the gas tank had to be replaced; $500 repair. It seems that Daimler has done little to improve Chrysler's product. If you plan to purchase a JEEP, buyer beware.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Good for everything

ZJguy, 05/30/2007
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I own a '93 and now this '97. The new 4.0L gives a little less HP than the 93/4/5 but a few cheep mods can kick it up to about the same. I drive a lot of highway and offroad most weekends. ZJs are very good for both. I have driven no problem 3000 miles in 3 days, and even been excited to start the next day. In the snow this Jeep is as safe as any subaru etc. The balance and traction is second to none, and it is difficult to get out of control. Driving this Jeep is easier than most cars, and light years ahead of most '07 SUVs. Without a doubt the best SUV for the money.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Hey they arn't so bad...

JamiePfef, 11/07/2006
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Well this was my first car that I paid for myself. I'm currently 19 and have had my Jeep for something like almost 2 years. Its the bright red Laredo that I pretty much see everywhere! I love the look of it, it's very sporty. I bought it from a credible Dodge dealer near me and it had around 80,000 miles on it. I got it for a little over $7,000. It was in perfect condition, everything was working fine. So far I have replaced my water pump and that's pretty much it. My rear parking brake broke off randomly and was clanking around in my wheel, got that taken care of but never fixed my parking brake. So it hasn't been too bad for me.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Going Strong

Long Time Owner, 12/27/2006
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought my V8 Laredo from the dealership with 17K miles and have almost 200K now. Drove it in Los Angeles for 2 + years then mostly in the mid-west, with frequent cross country trips. This car has held up superbly over time. The body and interior are still in excellent shape. There have been a few standard repairs over the years. The only real problem is the rear axle and bearings; they have had chronic problems since around 100K miles - they need to be rebuilt replaced about every 2+ years which can hurt the wallet. This car has been otherwise excellent in all driving conditions and weather. Very good car for long trips! I'm shooting for 250K miles for sure.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

I love my JGC

Alaska Violet, 11/29/2004
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Orvis 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I got a great deal on my 97 Grand Cherokee Limited and I love it! I have owned Subarus for the last 15 years in Alaska, but I am enjoying my Jeep even more. Goes great in snow and ice with no studs. Love the stereo and options galore. Has 97000 miles and my mechanic has found no mechanical problems. I still have to get the driver's heated seat fixed, power not getting there. I will keep this one until it dies, then get another.

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2.75 out of 5 stars

Going-Goning

Charlie, 05/17/2010
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

We have owned this since it was new. Has run well over the years. Now a second car for just running around town.Hope it last , but slowly problems. No A/C, many leaks , shocks on rear hatch gone, no 4 wheel drive. Paint has held up great.

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5 out of 5 stars

Jeep Cherokee Review

jeeplover, 04/30/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I have owned this vehicle for two years and have never experienced any problems. I maintain the vehicle, and have always had excellent service, it is dependable and used for work and farm use.

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2.75 out of 5 stars

97 jeep grand cherokee ltd

harley575, 11/27/2003
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Too many mechanical issues. Water pump, rear axle, front drive shaft. brakes, rotors. The caliper froze and ruined the pads and rotor. Wind noise when the moon roof is open too objectionable. Even though the car has a V-8 it is underpowered. Kills your back on speed humps in parking lots.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Nice 2 drive...

bluepenguin, 12/28/2005
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I purchased this used vehicle just about a year ago ... (lol knock on wood) so far ZERO problems . The ONLY thing I can say negative about this SUV is gas usage, but that is an EXPECTED given with driving a large vehicle. Overall so far, I am very happy with this vehicle and would absolutely recommend it.

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2.25 out of 5 stars

Worst Mechanical

William Beckerley, 02/27/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Vehicle had problems for the time it was delivered. It suffered multiple leaks oil & grease. It is extemely hard on brakes and tires in city driving. Shocks leaked at 36,000mi. U joint went at 36,000mi. Transmission locked in 2nd at 37,000. Had to be replaced. The SUV had mild city driving in very mild climate. It is very expensive to maintain and very unreliable. I have owned many new vehicles and this has been the worst.

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2.38 out of 5 stars

Buying a used jeep? Good Luck

4wheeler, 06/10/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

We wish we would have reviewed the listings on the chat rooms before buying. NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS WITH THIS VEHICLE! The transmission is lousy, expect problems!

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2.88 out of 5 stars

1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee

jobu2010, 11/23/2012
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
3 of 10 people found this review helpful

When running the Jeep is fun to drive, 1997 Cherokee gets horrible gas mileage, all fours running all-the-time stupid idea. Right now the Jeep does not run tranny sensors messed up. Look out Jeep is a money pit.

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2 out of 5 stars

DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY!

Leslie, 08/02/2015
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee TSi 4dr SUV 4WD
3 of 11 people found this review helpful

This jeep has put me through hell. It's my first car and I got it for a great price, and now I see why. Car stalls constantly. Replaced the starter for $90 to figure out it was just a wire pinched for the alarm system. throttle position sensor replaced for no reason at all $80. Doesn't run in weather under 60°. Gas mileage is a JOKE. 2 speakers blow, 1 on its way, and I wouldn't be surprised if the 4th started going soon. Radio barely picks up a signal. Runs amazing on certain days, however my 1st to 2nd shift is very rough, and revs up to 4000+ when pushed too hard. DO NOT invest in this hunk of junk. Save your money, it's an unreliable never ending headache.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
2 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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3.88 out of 5 stars

Jeep Stinks

Brad, 12/03/2005
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Bought a 1997 Grand Cherokee Laredo new in 1997. It was great for 3 years and 38,000 miles and then it turned to junk! Air conditioner went out. Brakes went out. Had to replace pads and turn rotors. Tires wore out. The dealership acted like the never heard of us. $1000 bucks to fix the air and it still only worked half the time. Finally traded it in for an Isuzu Trooper. Isuzu was 10 times better than the Jeep.

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Nice Jeep

alamo889, 12/28/2003
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I work on jeeps for a living, so I knew what to expect when I bought mine. Mine has the 4.0L engine. The only thing my Jeep needed when I bought it was an exhaust manifold ( they crack all the time on the 4.0)> Jeeps are high maintainance people! They need alot of T.L.C. You didn`t buy a Toyota. Keep the oil changed every 3k miles, rotate the tires every 6-7k miles (very important on a jeep) and dont beat the vehicle up on the road. Take care of your jeep and more than likely it will take care of you.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Happy Camper

dotsara, 02/26/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
2 of 7 people found this review helpful

For 15 years, I rode and drove an '85 Tercel; my Jeep is quite the step up. I won't go bragging about my fuel mileage (it's a 2-ton, V6), but I will go on about how comfortable and useful (I've moved myself and several friends) it is. She runs like a champ, although there have been two major mechanical problems (cracked exhaust manifold, wonky fuel pump). I love the look of my truck as well, it's got that boxy, truck feel; it's not all sedanish like the later model years. Love it!

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2.75 out of 5 stars

V8 Laredo 4x4

ford_guy351, 06/23/2011
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

This was the first car I had when I got my license and I bought it becouse it looked very good and I wanted the V8 power. Soon after I bought it though I relized that it was a typical Mopar useless and unreliable. I figured out that it leaked oil and it began to make a popping noise which was the drivers side C/V axle shaft boot had worn out and soon after the whole thing snapped and I had to replace it. But the engine itself has never had any major problems and currently it has 136k miles. The interior is nice but the stock speakers were blown when I got it and the passenger side heated seat refuses to work on high but the leather is very nice.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Not What I Expected

T Tyler, 01/27/2010
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

I got this 97" Jeep in 2006 with approx 60k on it... with in 6 months I had to have the Rear-End rebuilt... $1600 Water Pump replaced in 2009 for $450 Transmission Rebuilt 2010 for $1600 This Jeep has been leaking Oil from day 1 (Minor Dripping) The front end needs to be Rebuilt also.. but where I live there is no need for 4X4, so it will stay the way it is... I love the interior , look and overall ride.. Just too many issues with me even driving it rough. When I drive, I drive it with care.. Still it seems to not want to play fair and stay repair free... Why me... PS: The Infinity speakers seem to be blown... may be due to the age... oh well

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3.75 out of 5 stars

1997 Jeep GC Laredo

theos, 04/20/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

at 64,000 had to have the rear axle rebuilt, cost over $1000.00. Now at 66,000 the front end is making the same noise the rear did, was told front end needs rebuilding and the ABS doesn't work. At only 66,000 miles!!!??? Nice riding vehicle, but poor on gas and expensive repairs.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Own one and youll understand...

JeepinKansas, 07/12/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee TSi 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this vehicle from a Jeep dealer at 90K miles in 2001,It now has 100K and Ive mostly LOVED it.I have the Q-Trac/V8 Setup and my trans vibes a bit when shifting to 3rd,the rear end is also very NOISY(growls).80% of Grand's experience the rear diff bearing problem.Mine was even replaced in 98.That aside,I fixed a $90 IAC and now my Catalyst and Steering Dampener need replaced.Not bad for 100,250 miles. Biggest complaint? Interior Quality.These vehicles arent cheap and dealing with such a spotty interior is rediculous.Was going for a 99 or 00 but they have SEVERE problems,perhaps a 98 5.9 Limited will fit the bill,or ill wait for the 02s to come down.

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Not Like a Car

soylent::black, 04/16/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

But a good 4WD vehicle. After some of the places I took it I am certain that it will go anywhere. I do not like the way it handles for street driving. I do not see how this thing handles anything like a car. CD Player sucks, we have replaced it twice, still does not play the last song of a disc. Vacuum hoses for AC have been "fixed" twice and still do not work correctly. Lots of outside noise from the rear end.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Love it!

WVJEEPGRL, 01/05/2009
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee TSi 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bought the TSI 4 dr with over 200000 miles on it. Everyone loves it. I have alot of cars in my lifetime from a firebird with t-tops to a chevette but nothing comes close to my Jeep!

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4 out of 5 stars

reliable

Perian Dunmire, 08/01/2009
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought it from a private owner. It has approximately 130,000 miles. Drives well. It does not have very good mpg. As it is a v8. I have put brakes on it and new a. C. I feel it is a reliable vehicle, but with the unsure gas prices, it is scary.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

Capable off-roader with a few Quirks...

ebayauctions, 07/23/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee TSi 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Its been a joy to drive,and ive fallen in love with it...but these vehicles are plagued with various mechanical issues which would make them better for someone with mechanical expertise.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

sell,sell,sell

lemon, 02/06/2009
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bought last year @148,000 mi. It's a play vehicle and gets about 5000 mi. A year. Have spent money on it from day one. Staring off just trying to make everything perfect. Then I started getting a rear bear nosie. Replaced all rear end bearings. The Carrier bearing was the only one pitted. That didn't fix the the problem. Right rear axle was pitted changed it. That fixed the bearing noise. Then I got a vibration @1600 rpm and on deceleration. Changed u-joints (a waste of $). From what I've read sounds like this is a Major problem that is very hard to trouble shoot (even at a dealer. Don't want to spend any more $ on it. I'm torn between spending and just selling it. I love to drive it but the vibration.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

I love my Jeep!

Ms Suzi Q, 08/03/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I purchased this Jeep used and with 145K miles on it. The only repair I've had to make was to replace the water pump, which cost a whopping $23. I saved on labor by having a relative do the work. The Jeep is very comfortable and has the feel of a car. I have owned other SUV's and this is by far the best one I've had. I put a lot of miles on my vehicles and reliability is a big issue. 13K miles and 7 months later, it's still going strong!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

jeep grand cherokee

spinelli, 08/10/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This jeep has been my baby for the past 5 years and I LOVE it...it is comfortable and safe and secure. The exterior color is black and the interior is a charcoal grey. It has never been in an accident or broken dow. It has also been very reliable.

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2.88 out of 5 stars

Lemon with a golden wrapper

Brooks, 09/05/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have been almost anal with the up- keep of this car. I have followed the manual and performed every service recommended to the letter, but it has been nothing but problems in return. I know 4 other people, besides myself that have owned upper end Grand Cherokees or Loredos and not one of us would ever buy another one. Every time I have taken it to a shop and talked about the problems I have experienced, the mechanics confirm my frustrations by agreeing that this is not a reliable car.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

For Sale

No American Cars, 05/17/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Jeep was my first American made car out of three cars. It was my most expensive and most disappointed investment. It is fun to drive and has a great look, but don't judge a book by its cover. I have had brake problems from day one. My horn use to go off for no reason, my check engine light is on for no apparent reason, and my rear differential is shot! I have fixed most of those things and intending to sell right away for a killer price...only $8K.

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3.13 out of 5 stars

Jeep Grand Cherekee 4WD V8 Limited

td, 09/23/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The jeep is a mixed bag. First hand it is great for towing and offroading. It also looks the best in my opinion of every other mid size suv out there. However the jeep has some very noticeable quirks. I've had to replace the brakes repeatedly because of poor engineering allowing the brake routers to get heat cracked. It has also suffered from a lot of other issues as well, and always needs some type of maintenance.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Good and Bad Jeep

jenniferw, 10/31/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Love the Jeep - BUT, has cost me a lot of money this last year. Bought it used from a dealership 3 yrs ago. This year I needed new pistons b/c they were cracked = $1800. Also needed new U- Joints = $350 and the A/C died over the summer. My husbands 1996 Nissan Maxima has 225k miles and he hasn't had a single problem with it! I'm unloading it soon and buying an import.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

RELIABLE WORK HORSE

jerrymax, 11/13/2009
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this as a third vehicle. I also have a 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee and a 1997 Nissan Maxima that I keep on Long Island. I bought the 1997 Grand Cherokee with 138,000 miles on the odometer to keep at my other residence in upstate New York. As with my 1996 model it has been a reliable work horse. My '97 has the SelecTrac system that allows you to shift between RWD and AWD. In AWD it handles upstate winter weather conditions beautifully. The inline-6 engine is noisy but tough as nails. Good as a second (or third) car and local daily driver. A bit bouncy on long trips. No problems to report in first 5000 miles of driving. I recommend using 89 octane fuel rather than regular.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

An old friend.

Todd Rode, 11/01/2002
1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited is a finely appointed, durable and comfortable vehicle. It has been my primary source of transportation for 5 years and I have found the vehicle to be as fun to drive today as the day I bought it.

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