1999 Jeep Cherokee Sport review from North America

1. Rear interior light and under hood light not functioning when purchased: fixed by dealer under pre-owned "implied warranty" without cost.

2. Wiring harness failed at 54,000 miles and caused instruments to become non-functional: $400 dollar repair (parts and labor).

3. Front driver's and passenger's power windows dropped into door panel with a "snap" sound (plastic lift gear stripped) : $388 dollars for each window=$776 dollars total.

Other than the above failures, the truck has been reliable. Important core equipment like engine, transmission, A/C, engine accessories have been totally dependable. Paint has proved to be very durable despite lack of access to garage or cover for nearly nine years of use. Other than the driver's left seat bolster, the interior has worn well. Even the cheap Goodyear RT/S standard tires lasted 57,000 miles before they really needed to be replaced, so that has to be considered a good indicator of basically sound vehicle design and construction.

Crosswinds and closely-spaced bumps can unsettle the truck, but I have taken many 250+ mile road trips and found the Cherokee to be a comfortable open road machine. My 4-wheel drive is part-time, but it has overcome deep snow and provided an extra measure of security during downpour rain.

The Jeep has plenty of power, especially considering what competitors like the CRV and RAV-4 brought to the table in 1999. The absolute handling limits of the truck are low, but the exceptionally tight turning circle and relatively light weight equate to good maneuverability on road and off.

I would not buy another Jeep because personal priorities have shifted, and I am very concerned about oil use. A lot has changed since I bought the truck in 2001, and don't think I can justify using a gas guzzler everyday without having any trailers to tow or heavy cargo to move on a regular basis. This isn't a reflection on the quality of the truck or my satisfaction with the Jeep brand. Most trucks in this category aren't particularly frugal. Maybe Jeep will launch a truly efficient diesel or hybrid and I will reconsider. If not, this will be my last Jeep, but I will remember it as a very competent machine.