Used 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
C.P.'s 1999 Cherokee
Several problems with brakes but dealer did most of the work in warranty. Other than that, this has been a very nice vehicle. I will definitely buy another one. Dealer service very good.
she's been good
I bought my Jeep when it had 100k miles on it. My only complaint is the transfer case is tore up, therefore I lost my 4x4 capabilities. It doesn't get that good of gas mileage. However compared to other SUVs the same size it isn't too bad. I love the interior and it is extremely COMFY. I would recommend this vehicle to anybody!
- Laredo 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,99557 mi away
- Limited 4dr SUVMSRP: $8,99557 mi away
- Laredo 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,95084 mi away
Decent Car
I have 130,000 miles on the Grand Cherokee and am decently happy with it. I have had to change the transmission twice, but luckily my warranty covered it. The AC is going out and it gets AWFUL gas mileage but otherwise is a good car.
Jeep
I enjoy driving my Jeep Grand Cherokee through the mountains of Colorado and having all time four wheel drive for the rough terrain and snowy weather. The interior uses advanced technology and is very comfortable.
Chrysler Sucks
After 10k miles started having front brake pulsations. Took to dealer for repair. They turned the rotors. After 5k miles same problem. DIDO. Mechanic said that rotor was at tolerence limit and could not be turned again. I asked to replace the rotors. Chrysler would not authorize that. On 5/13/02 Chrysler service bulletin #0500302 says that for this problem, replace rotors, calipers and pads on all 1999-2002 GCs. It took Chrysler 3 years to admit they had bad parts and would not replace them. I called Chrysler to have the repair done. They said--sorry Charlie, that is a ware part and nothing can be done. THEY NEVER FIXED IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME!
'99 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
Although it looks nice and rides nice, and the engine has been basically dependable, I've had so many "minor" things go wrong with this vehicle that I would NEVER buy another one. Currently less than 41,000 miles. Stereo speakers blew, O-rings replaced, front rotors turned twice and rear rotors turned once (at less than 36,000 miles), leaking windows, misc. electrical failures, three recalls, tailight assemblies replaced, front driver seat assembly replaced ... the list goes on and on.
My repairs
I purchased my jeep in Sept. 99 the pwr window modulator had to be replaced twice, it was still under warranty. The fuel pump regulator went out and cost $150 the front brakes were replaced last year & this year the front & rear rotors needed replacing costing $450 & I still have squeaking. The passenger side air vents does not blow as much air as the driver side & I was told the air modulator would need replacing to correct this problem. There's water in my headlight kit & a rubbing noise in the steering wheel when turning. I was very disappointed with the costly repairs & resale value. I bought a Trailblazer & I'm loving it.
Best I've owned
This is undoubtedly the best car I have ever owned. 63000 miles and it's never been in the shop, still has the original tires and battery. Never had a breakdown. Uses no oil. Fun to drive and comfortable. Gas mileage could be better for an SUV this size at 17 mpg but the rest makes up for it.
Great Used Vehicle
I bought my 1999 JGC from a friend (third owner in all). Just clocked 161,000 miles. Outside of maintenance items (battery, brakes, tires, shocks, fluid changes, a/c charge) the car has needed to have the steering linkage and front axles replaced for a total of $450. As for fuel economy I am not sure how others are driving but driving like a mad man I am around 17.5-18.5 mpg and reasonable driving I am getting 20-21 mpg. The drivetrain is still strong and all the little things seem to be holding up. Alloy wheels clear coat is faded & flaking. The starter is beginning to struggle a bit so that may be the next thing to get fixed. All together for about a $4,500 investment a great find
Mine's been very good
Wow, I can't believe how lucky I've been. My Grand Cherokee Ltd has been great with only the brake issue ever a problem. I've been through 2 sets of rotors and pads in 4 years. I drive it fast and hard all the time and love the way it handles except for the side to side rocking over bumps which takes some getting used to. I have the 6 cylinder and AWD (not Quadra that came with the V8's) and my mpg seems to hover around 16-17 except in really cold weather when it drops to 14. Tows my 20' boat with ease. Upright comfy seating, leather is high quality, midsized (think station wagon). I think it's better looking (the '99 version) than the latest model. I liked my '93 Grand Cherokee Limited too. Guess I knew what I was buying.
4.0L Laredo4x4
I've been pretty happy overall. 15.5 MPG average could be better. Off road you can't beat it stock off the showroom it handles great off road. The 4.0 six has enough power for this vehicle. The V8 is a gas guzzler. I have had to repair the front disc brake rotors replaced twice, water pump, transfer case leak between transmission and rear differential carrier bearings. First set of Goodyear Wranglers lasted over 40K miles. I recommend these tires. Weather strip at rear passenger door causing noise. The infinity cd stereo is great.
1999 JGCH
Average gas mileage (18 to 20) for year and make. Just did a long trip through very bad weather and Jeep did great. Had 89k on it when we got it three years ago. Now has 111k with some tlc. Just had the tranny rebuilt. The rear axels done a couple years ago, and the front brakes, tires, tune up, last year. The right rear tail light burned out the whole assembly a year ago and paid allot at a local dealer for the part. We don't use a dealer anymore. Interior is like new and the exterior has a couple spots of door dings. The underbody looks good. The four wheel drive is good off road and in winter. The work done to it was worth every cent as the jeep was paid for in the beginning. I would recommend the 8 cylinder though. The 6 cylinder is good, but on big hills on my trip to the Ozarks made it work. The overdrive was good, but the 8 cylinder would be better if pulling loads. If this one craps out in the future, I will either swap engines or just go with an 8 cylinder upgrade in another good model.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Can't wait to get rid of it......
I've now owned it for a year and half, and in that time I will have had to had done all the things that you read on this site: had the differential seals done twice because they kept leaking, brakes, fuel line seals(to fix pressure in the fuel line), and the bearings replaced on the back end. Bought it because I loved how it looked, how it drove, (and I still do) but should have paid the extra and bought a Toyota.....
OK for now
66K and four sets of rotors. Two covered under warranty. Window regulator replaced under warranty. Transmission not refined, but no major problems. Vehicle has saved my butt numerous times in bad weather when others had lesser fortune. Would not recommend to others because of poor reliability.
it's a Jeep!
I have had three Jeeps now, two of which were Wranglers. Although I still love the Wranglers, they can't compare to the everyday capabilities of my Cherokee. I have a '99 Limited and have yet to encounter any problems. The power is great coming from the 4.7L engine and the overall quality is superior. It goes great in the snow. I've had to pull out Blazers before in places that my Jeep wouldn't even bat an eye at. This is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned and will definitely buy the new '05 Hemi within the next few weeks.
Great vehicle, but high maintenance
I special ordered this SUV in 1999. It is so comfortable and wonderful to drive. Fortunately, however, I purchased an extended warranty in 2002. There have been air conditioning problems. The starter went out at 42,000 miles. Occasionally, there is a strange noise from the right rear when cornering. There have been other minor problems. The rear end replacement issue was brought up with my Jeep. The dealer had replaced some others but apparently had done so unnecessarily. Bottom line: yes it is worth the aggravation and yes I would buy it again.
Good experience
Very solid. No major problems with any larger repairs of more than $500. Good runner.
Exellent SUV
I own a 99 JGL with select trac 4wd, 98k miles and have had only 2 issues with it. (1) The water pump went out after a grueling 4x4 expediton. Mud, water forging, steep inclines, and rock hopping. (2) The transfer case had a slight leak. Other than these minor diffculties the Jeep has ran great. It does have the 'clunk' when shifting to reverse, but thats the nature of a good transmission. It also has the hard shift between 2 and 3rd, but I speculate the factory told the computers to shift at a bad time; it only happens when I take some time to get up to speed, not when I floor it when the stop light becomes green.
Never Again
I bought this Jeep to downsize from a Chevy Suburban, not to go lower quality. Brake rotors replace within 6 months. Differentials are LOUD all the time. Heating and Air selector sometimes switches to different zones, sometimes doesn't. Three water pump replacements in 2 years. Warning light came on yesterday "Low Coolant" - so this is never going to end. The transmission hesitates from 2nd to 3rd gear, I don't even want to talk about the trouble of going to 4WD and back. I have to make sure I have a clear area before switching 4WD/2WD. However, I like the looks, I love the interior driving position and center console. The engine is still strong and torquey.
so so
I have not had any major problems with my Jeep. Only that there has been a loud clunking sound like the transmission when I start or stop. I have brought this to many Jeep dealers and was told this is normal...it is the quadra drive. Seems like such a feature should not be so embarrassing to have. Also, have replaced MANY sets of brakes. It does have great towing power and get-up. If you like a cushioned ride in a vehicle that feels like it is attached to the wheel by elastics this is for you. And forget interior room, especially in the back seat.
Poor Quality Parts and Build
I was warned about the poor reliability but thought I'd take a chance after reading about improved quality. HA! I was very unhappy with the cheap parts constantly breaking and TERRIBLE transmission. Two power windows went bad, the steering wheel radio controls got stuck, the power locks went bad and the arm rests cracked. Dealer was familiar with all of my problems. Transmission was extremely clunky: car would buck when switching from first to second; when I stepped on the gas after stopping, it would act like it was in neutral for a few seconds before making a loud clunk and lurching forward; dealer said this was normal!
Don't Buy This Vehicle
At under 60,000 miles I've already replaced both the front and rear differentials. Now I'm having transmission problems as outlined in bulletin 21-02-99 (harsh 1-2 shift at speeds of 10-15 mph). Jeep will not stand by their transmissions or assist me in any way. I will never buy a Jeep or Chrysler vehicle again and I strongly recommend you look elsewhere unless you like visiting repair shops.
Satisfaction plus
Our Jeep Grand Cherokee is the best overall vehicle for the money we have ever experienced. It is particularly easy to operate in traffic and park in tight places. The continuous 4 wheel drive allows the freedom of off-road maneuvering at the ranch. Plenty of road power. The mileage is actually less than our '97 Cadillac with the Northstar engine system. The Jeep is consistently around 19 MPG sometimes a little less. Love it.
This is not a car
I just bought a 99JGC limited will all the fixins. I researched this vehicle and Chrysler thoroughly before purchance. this vehicle is a jeep -not a car and won't respond the best driving to work and back everyday. It is built for offroading and rides like a jeep -not a passenger car. Most of the complaints here come from ignorance of how to drive the vehicle and maintaining it . Some are lemons but folks dont seem to understand that u need to buy a honda civic to goto work and back -not an engineered quadra track 4 wheel drive off road devise. If u drive it like a car thru constant stopping and starting in urban jungle traffic u will wreck the rotors and the dual transmission.
Excellent car...but...
It's been a great car. I bought it new, and since it was the first year of the "new" style, I would think some problems were to be expected... No show stoppers at all, but changed 6 electrical windows in the first 2 years (yes, you read right - 2 of them had to be changed twice), because they stopped working. Breaks disks tend to warp quite frequently, and hence you should expect some at least minor break problems every 18-24 months or so. Also changed 2 computers. No drive train or engine problems at all though. Very reliable engine/drivetrain.
120,000 Miles, No Problems!
I bought this Jeep new, and after 120,000 miles, I have done nothing other than the ordinary tuneups and brakes. Have the big V8 and still get 19-20 highway. Use it everywhere and mild offroad. Seems bullet-proof!
No longer the all american classic.
I hate this vehicle. So far I have had the transmission, transfer case and front axle and oil pressure gauge replaced, the computer system overhauled, and countless other small problems and the truck still does not work right. The dealership says they can never find the source of the problems (clunking, grinding, hard shifts, steering noise, and horrible performance). LOOK AT THE RECALLS FOR THIS VEHICLE. Do not buy a 1999 or 2000, especially with Quadra-drive.
Worst vehicle I've ever owned
You name the problem, I've had to pay for it to be fixed. Power locks, well- described brake issue, (still) leaking driver side rear window, entire rear axle (twice!), air conditioner control button, fuel injection. Take my advice: Buy Japanese. I know I will for ever more. (Even worse than the build quality, was the inept way and high cost of repairs!) Just awful.
CA to NM JEEP
I enjoy this vehicle alot, but it sucks way to much fossil fuel.
I HAVE BEEN SICK OF THIS THING!
Nothing but TROUBLE since day one! In our 4th set of rotors. Fuel pump replaced a couple of times. New radiator this year. Spent over $3k in repairs in '03 and over $1k so far in '04. At 100k miles, things started falling apart with this piece of junk. Rear end overhauled and left rear bearing replaced 3 times. Constant wind noise on right side from 2nd month-vibrating weather stripping- "Can't replicate" says Mr. Dealer- can't fix what they can't hear!......
Who would give me cash for this clunker?
Purchased new online in '99. Had to replace front & rear differentials shortly after warranty expired. Lost arbitration w/ shop that used wrong diff. fluid due to Jeep bulletin. Replaced condenser, evaporator, shocks (twice), rotors, pads, yada, yada, yada... Does this vehicle have a seal that doesn't leak? CD changer quit working & front passenger speaker blew long ago. Transmission shifts hard from 1st to 2nd during the winter... likely a viscosity issue as dealer can't fix w/o pulling out tranny which I won't pay for. Check engine light has been on for 2+ yrs now. Dealer won't cut wire. Got 132,000 miles with mostly new parts so hoping for 200,000 miles. Repair bills mounting...
Biggest Mistake I've Ever Made
This had to be my worst car buying experience ever! Bought brand new and had nothing but trouble from the day I drove it off the lot. In and out of the shop. And don't believe their warranty lies either... read the fine print! The hood was not aligned correctly to begin with. After a couple thousand miles the brakes needed replacing and had to be replaced every 2 to 3 thousand miles. Transmission was a mess too. Resale value was the worst ever. Finally dumped this piece of junk. Don't ever buy a jeep... you'll REGRET IT!!!!!
Big Mistake
I'm embarrassed to drive my jeep. It's parked in my garage. The brakes squeek so loud you could hear me a mile away. I've had the brakes fixed over 4 times and still the same problem. I can't get rid of it because I owe more than what it's worth... It was a mistake to have purchased this car! I thought I had a lemon, but after reading everyones review I see that the 99 Grand Cherokee is a lemon in itself...
1999 jeep Grand cherokee
What can I say this is a fun SUV and has style it is at home in the city or the farm It has taken three kids to college. Pulled trailers my daughter car after she had an accident. It also got me to work which is 40 miles away in all kind of weather snow pouring rain it takes everything you throw at it and comes back for more. the only problems are normal wear and tear and minor little annoying things clock spring door lock speed sensor. I like this one so much I bought a newer model I hope I like it as much
Good styling poor reliability
The Bad: AC problems common (some easily fixed for DIY) Brake system very poor design (cause rotors to be replaced more often) Radio system starts out as a plus until you crank it than it becomes a negative because there is no band pass thus you blow the tweeters Window motors go out quite frequently (4 sets on mine now) Brake lights have a fault (have you not noticed this on other jeeps on the road yet) Not easily fixed or tracked down Strut system sucks The Good: It's paid off
Lemon of SUV
Everything that can go wrong went wrong with this vehicle. From transmission, brake to window, doors,seats,etc.,everything seemed to fall apart. On average, it lasts less than 900 miles per dealer service day. Just repaced all rotors less than 30,000 miles, after two re-surfacing.
BUY A HONDA INSTEAD !!!!!!!!!!!
I am trying to think of something good to say about our Jeep, wait "I have it," it's for sale in the newspaper. Entire front wheel bearing assembly replaced at 60K. Water pump at 65K. Air signed off at 60K. The interior room in this car is a joke for such a heavy car. Quality throughout is a nightmare. Windows quit working. Hood lifts replace every 40K. Used the 4WD one time in snow and developed oil leak in transfer case 1 week later. I could go on but I know you get the message. Any car out there is going to give you better service than this Chrysler made piece of JUNK !!!!!!!!!!!
Don't buy a 1999 Jeep Cherokee Laredo
We bought this car used for my son. We have replaced tie rods, cv boots, transmission, air conditioning, brakes front and back, axle shaft. Now we found out the rear axles are shot and the front needs ball joints and new cv boots. We have put a fortune in this car in 3 years thinking that after all the expense we may be able to drive it to get our moneys worth. We are now trading it in for the cash for clunkers and it makes me sick since it has all these new items and the body is in great shape. We can't put another $1800 that we were just quoted to fix it. This car had to be a lemon when designed.
wish i was as lucky as you folks...
I've had my 1999 jeep grand cherokee laredo v6 for about three years. so far i've had to put in a new motor new transmission two new batteries and now my driver door won't open from the outside. Here lately i haven't been too happy with the car seeing how it only has 164000. still trying to figure out how to fix the door issue. if anyone has any advice id appreciate it.
Worst car I've ever owned!
I bought mine new and five years later the engine blew up and after a new engine the transmission went. It was beyond repair and now just sits in my driveway rotting away. It is also extremely uncomfortable, I didn't want it to begin with but I was suckered into it. Never will I buy another Jeep product in my life, they are so unreliable and are listed for the worst quality amung cars. Replaced it with a 2004 Cadillac Cts, also bought new, and now nine years later and about 185,000 miles no problems and still rides like new. I knew I should have just stuck with General Motors.
A 1999 jeep grand cherokee owner review
everything about the 99 jeep grand cherokee is great accept for the gas mileage.
Wonderful Vehicle!!!
This Jeep is the best vehicle I've ever owned. This is the second Jeep Grand Cherokee I've owned and it's the only SUV I will ever own. I've never had any mechanical problems and it runs like a dream.
Look else where
In the first 18 months I had to have new wheel bearings,new battery, rear window motors went out, transmission went out. From month 18 to present I had to have new bearings again in the rear, transmission probblems due to dealership service dept. mistake. I WILL NEVER BUT ANOTHER JEEP. This is the first U.S. car I've owned in 19 years. My next car will be a BMW 330ci
jeep G. cherokee
had to replace rotors 3x dealer didn't want to pay any as I was at 12,500 mi. first time and said only covered up to 12K. Spent about 1300$ of my own money to fix brakes and only last about 3 months then need to recut and replace pads or rotors.
Best vehicle ever owned
This is by far the best vehicle I've ever owned. We've had it for 6 yrs. and the repairs we've made are no where near the repairs other vehicles we've owned. Repairs are a little more pricey but that's what you get when you buy a quality vehicle, quality repair work. The gas mileage I'm sure is comparable to any other mid-sized SUV. The luxuries are great. Handling is great. It's fun to drive. I can't say enough!
Our Cherokee
Very poor reliability. It is a shame because the interior is very nice.
This Jeep is a terrible vehicle
When we purchased the vehicle, we expected the reliability that is sort of associated with Jeeps. What we got instead is the garbage associated with Chrysler. In 51000 miles, we have gone through 4 sets of rotors, three sets of brake pads, 2 seat heaters, a rear differential rebuild, and a whole laundry list of minor items that have broken (power mirrors, power seats, covers on seat belts, etc..) The dealer knows about the brake problems, Chrysler will not admit there is a problem. I am glad we did not purchase the Quadra-Drive which had even more problems in this year also. Basically I cannot in good conscience recommend this vehicle to anybody.
Impressed
Have had very few problems in the past 1000 miles of ownership. Better than an RX300 by far. They have a "ghost bump" in the driveshaft in this year but that has been rectified through a Tech Bulletin I will have done as well as many of the other complaints here. Do your homework and your problems will be fixed. Mine a 10/98 build and beside the ghost bump and a leaky rear hatch window I have NO problems. Dealer himself replaced a bad window regulator also. Just like everything else theres good ones and bad ones.
good truck
I purchased this suv with 75,000 miles on it and I have no regrets its been very well a few minor problems gas line leak at 120,000 mi crankcase sensor bad at 125,000 trans sensor at 115,000 it runs very well
1,2,3 Heave the Anchor
Cons: It's quite painfully clear that Jeep has under-engineered their drive train and braking system. The vehicle simple looks and is marketed as being tough but can't walk the walk. The truck is built "Good Enough" to make it through a lease period which seems to be the mantra of the American Auto companies. My next vehicle, which will be shortly, will be a Japanese vehicle. The brand Jeep conjures up images of a tough American icon built to last with second to none off road capabilities, which is a farce.