Faults:

Surface paint has eroded down to primer on body ridges at the sides.

Heater switch & blower repaired at 88651 miles.

Replaced fuel pump @ 111389 miles.

Replaced water pump, temp sensor @ 144362 miles.

At about 158000 miles the heater control valve (plastic) broke.

At about 162000 miles the right front vacuum operated hub wouldn't disengage. Some frisky forward/reverse action knocked it loose. No problems since.

Most recently, I had to replace rear U-joints. I'm surprised I hadn't seen these replaced in the maintenance log (4WD's are notorious for U-joints) but then I had neglected to lube them since I owned it (never again!)

General Comments:

One of the most reliable cars I've ever owned. At 168000 miles the engine still uses much less than a quart of oil between changes and doesn't leak a drop of anything.

I bought it from a friend who bought it at a Missouri Conservation Dept (first owner) auction (I was there). As such it had every scrap of paperwork from dealer purchase on, including every drop of gas and every single repair and service. My buddy kept the "vehicle expense report" maintained and so have I.

The mileage isn't great (4WD, remember?), but I don't worry when I get out to pass, either. And this baby'll take me wherever I want to go.

Handling is exceptional for a 4WD. Police road tests showed this vehicle almost impossible to roll over compared to other 4WDs even under severe handling conditions, and I'm here to testify to that. I've had to make several hard maneuvers since I owned it and it always did what was required.

It's hard to get a good deal on one of these, partly because they are so popular and partly because the person who owns it loves it (like me). I paid retail book on mine and have never regretted it (guy I bought it from wants it back : fat chance). I use and depend my vehicles, regardless of looks or prestige. This answers my needs perfectly.

Faults:

Muffler and tailpipe were replaced, but catalytic converter still in good shape.

There was a recall on the rotors (corrosion) and also the Anti-lock Braking System; both were replaced / repaired in a timely matter with no hassle from the dealer. ABS still having some problems due to a speed sensor on one wheel needing replacement (not part of recall).

Original water pump replaced at 136,000 miles.

There is an oil leak (not too bad). The rear main seal needs to be replaced, however, it will cost around $400. (Ouch!) Also, oil leaks on the air filter, causing more frequent changing.

The springs (front suspension) are very worn and need to be replaced. Jeep is leaning to one side and bouncing passengers around. Cost to replace = $300.

General Comments:

Engine and transmission still going strong at 140,000 miles. Also, very quick for a truck!

Looks great except for the paint; the clear coat is starting to wear off on the roof. It is strangely peeling on only ONE door. No rust on body! :) When it's clean, people sometimes guess that it is about 4-5 yrs newer than it actually is (unless they know what year Jeep changed the body style).

Power everything and leather seats are nice.

Gas mileage is not great, but not too bad for a truck.

Not a very comfortable ride, but hey, if you want comfort, get a Caddy or a Buick!

It has never left me stranded. It even waited until I pulled into the driveway for the water pump to go! ;) Also, it overheated, so it automatically shut off the engine so it wouldn't self-destruct, which I thought was very cool (no pun intended).

Very fun to drive and great on and off the road! I now understand Jeep pride. :)