1996 Jeep Cherokee Sport review from North America

Apparently I inherited a few minor, more annoying things from the previous owner, who had a minor front end collision (but wasn't on carfax!!) The steering wheel 'clunks' when you turn it (I've narrowed it down to a bad u-joint on the steering shaft)...but the alignment is very close to perfect.

Fuel line ruptured (probably from off-roading :) ). Easy, $0 fix. Cut bad part of hose, and reattached.

Oil pressure sending unit went out. About $25 for the part, 5 minutes for the install.

I get a pretty nasty 'clunk' from the rear when I go over bigger bumps. Most people think it's a bad leaf spring bushing.

Blower motor went out on me recently (haven't fixed it yet).

Minor cosmetic things that need to be taken care of.

I love it. The stock capabilities of this Jeep are amazing. It really can go anywhere. The Cherokee made it through a muddy/marshy area where my friend's lifted F-150 got stuck...twice.

The 4.0 I6 is a rock-solid, bullet-proof engine. It's a shame they're discontinuing production in June of 2006, I believe. The torque curve is nice and flat, and has plenty of power for getting up on the highway. Mine has 110k miles on it, and it still runs remarkably smooth.

The AW4 tranny has been flawless. No signs of aging.

Part-time 4-wheel drive (NP231 transfer case) is perfect; always engages and disengages right away. Seems like the previous owner didn't even use it.

This Jeep definitely has some cosmetic flaws, but in my opinion that gives it character. Mechanically it runs great.

For a 20-year old college student (who loves the outdoors), the XJ is a great choice. Dependable, and capable.