1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Review
Price Estimate: $1,697 - $2,754
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Lightweight unibody construction, excellent on and off-road manners, optional V-8, standard ABS, dual airbags, lots of standard equipment
Cons
- Spare tire hogs cargo area, engines hog gas, not as roomy inside as some competitors, price climbs rapidly as options are added
What’s new
A 5.9-liter V8 making 245 horsepower and 345 pound-feet torque powers the Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited, making it the mightiest of all Jeeps. With the addition of the 5.9, the putrid Orvis model dies. Two new colors and "next-generation" airbags round out the changes.
For sale near Baton Rouge, LA
4 listings
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Located in Crystal Lake, IL
- Features and Specs:
- 16 Combined MPG (14 City/19 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 1J4GZ58S0WC118722
- Stock:
- 118722
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 02-01-2026
- 237,290 miles
- 11 City / 16 Hwy MPG
- 830 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- 5000lb Towing Capaci...
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Located in Lake Bluff, IL
- Features and Specs:
- 13 Combined MPG (11 City/16 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 1J4GZ88Z8WC291855
- Stock:
- 108A
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 04-29-2026
Vehicle overview
For years, the Ford Explorer has been the best-selling sport-utility vehicle in this country, but in 1992 a new challenger called Grand Cherokee arrived to try and wrest the sales crown away from the champ. It was not successful. However, it did outsell every other sport utility on the market, and became the Explorer's biggest threat.
Indeed, this Jeep has the most car-like feel of sport utilities, and is among the most stable on pavement. In fact, with the optional 5.2-liter V8 pumping away under the hood, the Grand Cherokee becomes the Porsche of sport-utes. Equipped with a dual airbag system and four-wheel antilock disc brakes, Grand Cherokee buyers have a long list of equipment to wade through, including three different drive systems (2WD, part-time 4WD, full-time 4WD), four different trim levels (Laredo, TSI, Limited, 5.9 Limited), and a host of luxury and convenience items.
The exterior is all hard edges and angles, but is instantly recognizable as a Jeep product and looks rugged. A retro touch we could do without is the location of the spare tire. The Grand Cherokee doesn't have tiny tires, and the cargo area is among the smallest in the class to begin with, so why is the tire in the cargo area? It should be under the cargo floor, mounted under the truck or placed on a rack on the liftgate. Otherwise, we have few quibbles with this sport-ute.
Jeep included several perks with the Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited for 1998 (the Ferrari of sport-utes). Mechanical changes are limited to a torque-monster 5.9-liter V8 engine and free-flowing exhaust system, reducing back pressure by 25 percent and making the big engine a little easier on gas. The interior sports "premium calf's nap grain" leather seats, a new Infinity 180-watt, 10-speaker audio system, 60/40 folding rear seat with armrest, and leather trim on the doors, armrests and console. The 5.9 Limited is nothing if not organic. The 5.9 Limited exterior is treated to a body-colored side molding, hood louvers, a front grille with a silvery mesh and 16-inch aluminum wheels.
Last year, the TSI model debuted, sporting specific alloy wheels, monotone paint in a choice of three shades, dark blue pinstriping, leather seats, high powered audio system and more luxurious interior trimmings.
Unfortunately, just as Jeep caught up to and surpassed the Explorer in comfort and safety features, Ford went and squeezed a V8 under the Explorer's hood. Last year, Ford began offering a new overhead cam V6 engine in the Explorer, which puts out 20 more horsepower than the Jeep inline six. The Ford also has more room, a more comfy rear seat and a lower price tag. Plus, you don't have to load cargo around a big ol' tire in the back. The verdict? For around town family hauling, we prefer the value-packed Explorer XLT. But for speedy fun and off-road prowess, the JGC Laredo V8 gets our vote.
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
Owners of the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee consistently appreciate its robust performance and enduring reliability. The Grand Cherokee’s V8 engine, particularly the 5.9-liter variant, is often praised for its impressive power and torque, making it a favorite among those who enjoy spirited driving and quick acceleration. This SUV’s off-road capabilities also receive high marks, with many owners highlighting its sure-footedness in snow, mud, and other challenging terrains, thanks to the effective 4WD systems like Selec-Trac and Quadra-Trac. Despite its age, this vehicle seems to maintain its charm and resilience, with many owners reporting high-mileage achievements. Jeep aficionados seem to hold a deep emotional connection with their Grand Cherokees, often attributing this to the SUV's comfortable and well-appointed interior, which includes luxurious touches like leather seats and premium audio systems. Cargo capacity is another appreciated feature, particularly when the split-folding rear seats are utilized, providing a versatile and spacious area for various needs. The reliability of the 4.0L straight-six engine is often highlighted, noted for its toughness and longevity over years of use. Many owners express delight in the vehicle's ability to handle long road trips and city commuting with ease, making it a reliable companion for family road adventures and daily errands alike. The combination of sturdy construction and strong overall build quality gives owners confidence in their vehicle’s safety and durability. For everyday practical use, owners frequently mention that the Grand Cherokee's handling and agility make it more car-like than truck-like on paved roads, contributing to a pleasant driving experience. Its ability to comfortably accommodate passengers and cargo without sacrificing performance lends to its reputation as a versatile, family-friendly SUV. The Grand Cherokee’s timeless, rugged design remains appealing to many, cementing its status as an iconic Jeep model. Longevity plays a big role in owner satisfaction, with numerous accounts detailing vehicles surpassing well beyond 200,000 miles, still offering reliable service. Enthusiasts appreciate the aftermarket potential and the ability to customize or maintain the vehicle using accessible parts, which further extends its life and adaptability. Even as technology advances, the 1998 Grand Cherokee holds its ground with loyal fans who value its unique blend of power, comfort, and all-terrain capability. Additionally, some owners take pride in the exclusivity of their 5.9 Limited models, cherishing its rarity and collected status alongside modern vehicles. The toughness of the Grand Cherokee’s build is manifest not only in its robust frame but in the durability of its components when routine maintenance is observed. As a result, many affirm the lasting value and driving pleasure this SUV delivers, making it a cherished member of their automotive family.
Common Issues
Owners of the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee experience several common issues that detract from its otherwise robust appeal. The spare tire placement proves to be a significant inconvenience, taking up valuable space in the already limited cargo area. Many drivers report that the SUV struggles with fuel efficiency, with gas mileage often hovering in the low teens, particularly in V8 models, which makes frequent stops at the pump a regular occurrence. Mechanical reliability issues appear with age and mileage, with some owners noting recurring problems such as transmission slipping and oil leaks. Electrical system troubles are frequently cited, with components like power windows, door locks, and the rear wiper often failing or requiring repeated attention. The infamous check engine light tends to illuminate due to various sensor failures, frustrating owners who must troubleshoot to determine the root cause. Suspension concerns emerge as another pain point, with several drivers indicating the need for frequent replacements of sway bars and bushings due to wear. On rough or worn pavements, the ride can become uncomfortable, with some reports of vibrations that persist despite service efforts. The air conditioning system’s performance is inconsistent, with many owners noting it loses effectiveness over time, leading to expensive repairs to restore its function. Interior features occasionally pose problems, with the A/C and heater systems sometimes failing, impacting overall comfort during extreme temperatures. Some owners express dissatisfaction with recurring brake issues, including frequent pad and rotor replacements, which can add up in maintenance costs. Additionally, the aging design of the vehicle means that finding replacements for some parts, like cooling fans, can be challenging and sometimes involves modifying parts to fit. Rust, particularly in areas prone to road salt, can become a cosmetic and structural concern as these vehicles continue to age. Furthermore, the rear differential, sharing components with less powerful models, may pop or make noises under stress, indicating its inability to handle the 5.9-liter engine’s torque over the long term. Despite its appeal in many areas, the Grand Cherokee’s assembly quality has some owners wishing for better initial build standards, as persistent minor issues necessitate frequent visits to the repair shop. Overall, while the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee is admired for its strengths, these maintenance challenges can prove to be a consistent annoyance for owners who seek dependable performance without frequent intervention. The trade-off between mechanical reliability and the SUV's powerful, off-road capable experience is a balance that some find it difficult to achieve with advancing age and accumulated wear. Nonetheless, for those willing to invest the time and effort into upkeep, the Grand Cherokee remains a well-loved classic, though not without its faults.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee provides a driving experience that many owners find to be both satisfying and adventurous on a daily basis. Drivers appreciate the SUV's formidable power, particularly with the 5.9-liter V8, which offers a spirited response whether navigating city streets or tackling rugged terrain. Despite its age, the Grand Cherokee commands respect for its ability to handle a variety of conditions, from snowy roads to muddy paths, without missing a beat. Many owners feel a deep bond with their vehicles, often referring to them as more than just a mode of transportation but rather a reliable companion for life's journeys. The driver's seating position and controls contribute to the SUV’s engaging drive, allowing for seamless command on and off the road. Those who maintain their vehicles with regular care find that, even with high mileage, it continues to deliver dependable service. While some may face issues with fuel consumption and occasional mechanical quirks, the robust design and strong performance often compensate for these drawbacks. The spacious interior, equipped with thoughtful features such as leather seats and premium sound systems, keeps comfort at the forefront, enhancing long trips or daily commutes. Customers frequently use the versatile cargo hold for various needs, finding it adaptable for family activities or hauling equipment. The design holds a timeless appeal, maintaining its rugged charm that Jeep enthusiasts cherish. Noteworthy is how the Grand Cherokee seems to foster a passion for SUV ownership, with many expressing their intent to keep theirs running as long as possible. Even though some electrical components require attention, drivers remain attached to the vehicle’s utility and style. For those willing to address the maintenance needs, the payoff comes in the form of an SUV that continues to hold its own against newer competitors. The Grand Cherokee's balance of luxury, performance, and durability makes it a preferred choice among those who value its unique mix. The strengths and quirks of this model intertwine to craft an ownership experience that's rich in character, deeply rewarding, and.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Louisiana
$273/mo for Grand Cherokee Laredo
Grand Cherokee Laredo
vs
$208/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Reliability
The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee has 10 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
10 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 98V023000
- Manufactured from:
- 1997-10-25 to 1997-11-10
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 8900
- Defect Description:
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE POWER BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM RESERVOIR DIAPHRAGM CAN SPLIT OR TEAR.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS CAN CAUSE AN INCREASE IN ENGINE IDLE SPEED AND A LOSS OF POWER ASSIST DURING BRAKE APPLICATION WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE BOOSTER DATE CODE AND ANY BOOSTERS WITH THE SUSPECT MANUFACTURING DATE RANGE WILL BE REPLACED.
- Recall Number:
- 13V252000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- N45, N46
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1560000
- Defect Description:
- Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty vehicles. The fuel tanks in these vehicles are at risk of failure and leakage in certain rear impacts.
- Defect Consequence:
- A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
- Corrective Action:
- Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear structure. On vehicles in the recall that are not equipped with a tow hitch, Chrysler will install a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles in the recall that are equipped with an aftermarket tow hitch, Chrysler will assess whether the hitch and surrounding areas show evidence of sharp edges or other puncture risks. If so, Chrysler will replace the tow hitch with a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles already equipped with a Chrysler designed tow hitch, Chrysler will inspect the area around the tow hitch installation, and if any installation issues are identified, they will be repaired free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in July 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign numbers are N45 (for the Grand Cherokee vehicles) and N46 (for the Liberty vehicles).
- Recall Number:
- 09E025000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 42540
- Defect Description:
- DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Defect Consequence:
- DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Recall Number:
- 09E012000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 16270
- Defect Description:
- SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Defect Consequence:
- DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Recall Number:
- 07E104000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1657
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
- Defect Consequence:
- IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.
- Corrective Action:
- SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS RETAIL CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. RETAIL CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE TOLL FREE AT 1-888-843-2906. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS AND REIMBURSE WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS FOR CURRENT INVENTORY AND AT A SPECIFIED RATE FOR REPLACING THEIR CUSTOMER'S GLASS. WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE'S WHOLESALE DIVISION, SERVICE AUTOGLASS TOLL FREE AT 1-888-246-6298. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2008.
- Recall Number:
- 06E026000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 61944
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Recall Number:
- 06E022000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 7440
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT BRAKE CYLINDERS FOR CERTAIN FORD, DAIMLERCHRYSLER, AND JEEP PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE BRAKE CYLINDERS WERE SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF NAPA, RAYBESTOS, AIMCO, AC DELCO, CARQUEST, BENDIX, AND WAGNER. ONLY PRODUCTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 27, 2005 THROUGH JANUARY 17, 2006 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.
- Defect Consequence:
- LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN LEAD TO A DECREASE IN BRAKE LINE PRESSURE AND AN INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE, WHICH CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- AFFINIA (BRAKE PARTS, INC.) WILL REPLACE THE SUBJECT BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AFFINA GROUP CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-323-0354.
- Recall Number:
- 06E011000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- FP012506
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 7291
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN AFTERMARKET AIRTEX ELECTRIC FUEL PUMPS INSTALLED FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR CERTAIN 1997-2004 JEEP WRANGLER; 1997-2001 JEEP CHEROKEE; 1997-2004 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE; AND 2000-2003 DODGE DAKOTA VEHICLES. THE PLASTIC ELECTRICAL GROMMET CONNECTORS AT THE TOP OF THE FUEL PUMP MODULE ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH AUTOMOTIVE FUELS AND MAY DEGRADE CAUSING A POTENTIAL LEAK PATH FOR FUEL.
- Defect Consequence:
- IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FUEL LEAK COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Corrective Action:
- AIRTEX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 25, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AIRTEX CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT 1-800-880-3056.
- Recall Number:
- 02V053000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- B02
- Manufactured from:
- 1992-06-01 to 1998-05-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1620000
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, IF A DRIVER HAS NOT PLACED THE SHIFTER LEVER FULLY INTO THE "PARK" POSITION AND LEAVES THE VEHICLE RUNNING, THE VEHICLE MAY UNEXPECTEDLY MOVE REARWARD AFTER SEEMING TO BE STABLE.
- Defect Consequence:
- INADVERTENT MOVEMENT OF THE VEHICLE COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SECONDARY DETENT SYSTEM TO THE FLOOR SHIFTER ASSEMBLY. DAIMLERCHRYSLER SENT INTERIM NOTICES TO OWNERS CONCERNING THIS PROBLEM ON MARCH 22, 2002. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 23, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
- Recall Number:
- 00V136000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 879
- Manufactured from:
- 1995-07-01 to 1998-06-01
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 589000
- Defect Description:
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, OR WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT DISC BRAKE ROTORS CAN EXPERIENCE SEVERE CORROSION IF OPERATED FOR AN EXTENSIVE PERIOD IN THE "SALT BELT." IF THE ROTORS ARE NOT REPLACED, THE CORROSION CAN EVENTUALLY COMPROMISE THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE STAMPED STEEL CENTER HUB SECTION OF THE ROTOR.
- Defect Consequence:
- THE REDUCED STRENGTH CAN ALLOW THE CAST IRON WEAR SURFACE TO SEPARATE FROM THE HUB, REDUCING THE BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE VEHICLE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE ROTORS WITH ROTORS THAT ARE COATED WITH A CORROSION PROTECTION.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(40%)
4(40%)
3(15%)
2(4%)
1(1%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
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I love my 5.9
4.75 out of 5 starsptowntsi, 12/29/2006
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
This has to be one of the best SUV's available used. I would take it over any mid-size SUV or wimpy crossover. Yes it is true many of these need to have their front and rear axles rebuilt around 100k miles, but that is not so bad. For the price of the vehicle it is easy to spend that money to have them done. When they are rebuilt they will last an easy 100k+ or more. It is completely … justifiable. These Jeeps have awesome power, and very luxurious interiors. The 5.9 limited has better leather seats than any Jeep, heated seats, heated mirrors, a great AWD system, and timeless classic styling. I recommend this Jeep for anyone looking for a reliable vehicle.
Last of the ZJ Series
5 out of 5 starsWilliam, 02/10/2018
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD
This is my 2nd Jeep Grand Cherokee, so I already know what to expect. I had a 96 prior to getting my 98. They're the same with very few changes if any that a typical buyer would even know, and most dealers wouldn't know either. Overall mine is great condition, and considered low mileage (150k) for being 20 years old. I have the 4.0L Straight 6 and it gets up and moves just fine. … Gets mid 20's for fuel economy on the highway...its a box on wheels going down the road its not going to get excellent fuel economy...if you want that buy a Prius. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is quite a capable vehicle in stock form, handles snow/ice/mud very well (with the right driver of course). I opted for the Selec-Trac 4WD system in my 98. My 96 had the Quadra-Trac 4WD system. Both do great in snow/ice, but the Selec-Trac gives you the best of all worlds, 2WD, 4WD part time and full time, neutral and low range. The Quadra-Trac is full time 4WD with neutral and low range. These were offered with the 4.0L Straight 6 engine, a 318 (5.2L) V8, or a 360 (5.9L) V8 for only the 98 model year. Any of these engines will give you great performance, the 5.9L V8 was a special package option of course. Fuel economy averages around 12-14 in town, depending on your driving style, 4WD usage, terrain, speed, etc. Highway fuel economy is going to be mostly based on your speed and driving style as well as the tires you have. Expect low to mid 20's for regular highway driving at a steady speed and around 65mph, any faster and your fuel economy will of course drop just like any other vehicle. My 96 Grand Cherokee had 232,000 miles on it when I sold it, and it still ran and drove great. My current 98 has 151,000 miles on it and needs new stabilizer bushings and such, but nothing that keeps it from being extremely reliable. The 6 cylinder models are rated to tow 5,000lbs, I can tell you they'll tow more but I wouldn't recommend doing so on a regular basis...also they no longer have an auxiliary external transmission cooler so if you want to do any towing I'd definitely recommend having one installed. The V8 models are rated for 6,500lbs towing. The back seat split folds 60/40 giving a very nice roomy cargo area. My Jeep has the flip up glass in the rear hatch, making loading and unloading smaller items pretty easy, and keeping things from falling out that have been stuffed into the cargo area. The spare tire does take up quite a bit of interior space on the left side of the cargo area, however. Regular maintenance and good quality fuel and these things are going to take you anywhere you want to go anytime you want to go regardless of weather. They have very good road manners even in crosswinds and they are balanced very well making them go in the snow/ice much better than many other similar vehicles.
Most sought JEEP model
5 out of 5 starsjoanne, 06/19/2016
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
They didn't make too many of them, they're in high demand. There's also a club for just this model. Minimal repairs since owning vehicle. Most luxurious Jeep model and year I've seen. Gas Mileage could be better, 20-22 on the freeway, less in town. Still going strong after 20 years. Still looks nearly new.
Has 194,000 miles, had to put in a new cooling fan two years ago. Shop … could not find a replacement, had to put in a different one. The cooling fan is electric and has two speeds. The low speed fan switch just went out, the high speed switch is OK. The shop was unable to find a replacement that day as they're not stock, I'll have to find one on my own. Oh yes, when I put in the new cooling fan, I found out at a later date the shop stole the front part of the drive shaft. The vehicle didn't have the power it as supposed to have while climbing a mountain. I called a friend and told him, he didn't know what to make of it. When I reached my destination, the starter went out. A guy from Auto Zone crawled under there, replaced the starter, told me the front part of the drive shaft was gone, as in stolen.
I just read another guy's post. He runs the heck out of it, stomps on the gas, drag races from one traffic signal to the next. He also states he has to run premium fuel. I always run mid-grade when driving in town, but I drive the vehicle gently. For a while, I was accidentally running 87 as that's what my other vehicle uses, I didn't notice a difference. There was some slight pinging but I had to put the window down and drive by a concrete barrier to hear it. When I'm traveling cross country and going into the mountains, I use premium fuel.
Decent SUV
4.13 out of 5 starskeeferk, 05/11/2013
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited 4dr SUV 4WD
I just bought this jeep in college with 308k miles on it. I was pretty wary about having problems at that high of a mileage, but so far the only thing that needs replaced is the tires and maybe brakes. I had to test it out in the mud today and the check engine light came on. Great drunk person carriage, I've saved a lot of lives driving people around in this thing. Wouldn't trade it for … anything.
1998 Grand Cherokee Features & Specs
Laredo
| Engine Type | Gas |
|---|---|
| Combined MPG | 16 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $273/month |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 40.9 cu.ft. |
rear wheel drive |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver3 / 5Passenger3 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRolloverNot RatedDynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalMarginal
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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