1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo from North America - Comments

Transmission went at 43,000K; luckily was still under warranty.

New brakes were done at 44,000K including new rotors by non-dealer auto repair place. When the vehicle was taken in for a transmission noise (still under warranty), the dealer replaced the rotors due to a recall. The dealer didn't tell us that the recall was for the rotors so the rotors that were replaced were only 1 month old and were an aftermarket rotors. The new rotors and the aftermarket brake pads didn't get along and made a loud squeal when the brakes were applied. The dealer wouldn't fix the problem because the brake pads were aftermarket and the place that did the original brake job tried turning the rotors, but then referred the problem back to the dealer because the brakes worked fine before the dealer replaced the (new) rotors. After numerous discussions with the dealer management and escalation up through the regional reps, we got reimbursed for the brake job rotors, but then had to pay to get new brake pads that would work with the OEM rotors.

The transmission whiny noise (remember the thing that started the brake rotor problem above) occurs when the car is cold, but will eventually stop after the car has warmed up. The dealer at first "could not hear the noise" and so after several times back to the dealer, we took the vehicle in early in the morning for a test drive and then the noise could be heard. However, the dealer was not able to figure out what was causing the noise so for now (3 years later) we find that if you just turn up the radio a little louder in the morning it's not as noticeable.

Oxygen sensor went at 52,000K.

Headlight relay stuck so the headlights wouldn't turn off.

Interior light relay stuck so interior lights wouldn't turn off.

Rear Differential and Axel at 91,000K.

Blower motor electronics replaced.

Front and rear trailing arm bushings need replacing.

And, for some reason, when you get out of the vehicle you get an electrical shock.

This vehicle is basically used for around town driving and once a year tows a small tent trailer.

Very expensive car to keep going.

Wow lotta shockin' going on in the 98 jeep. 4 other people had the same comment in their reviews also... hmmmm.

I also am receiving a lot of static discharge from my 98 Jeep is there anything that can be done? Also I am in the process of replacing the rear differential and possibly the axles. Thanks Jerry.

I also used to get a shock from my 1997 Grand Cherokee. A change in tires helped to alleviate, but not eradicate the problem. The car does have many electrical problems. For example, my A/C blower died at the same time ALL of my windows refused to function. REALLY REALLY HOT.

Make sure you discharge the static before filling your tank at the pumps! Maybe this should be brought to the manufacturers attention!! There have been cases of static discharge that caused explosions at the gas station!!! Even though static explosions have been reduced throughout the years, it is not impossible. Read these GOOGLE results -- http://www.google.com/search?q=static+discharge+that+caused+explosions+at+the+gas+station .

Lots of cars have a static electricity problem.

Have you ever seen a car that has two thin black strips that hang from the underside/rear and touch the ground?

Sometimes they have ligtning bolts on them.

Those black strips are to ground the vehicle and will stop the electric shock.

Mine is running OK, trans issue is sensor related. 35$

Brakes being replaced ongoing problem with 1998 Laredo purchased new. The ABS light continues to stay on and have been told a sensor and not to worry about.

This vehicle has low mileage for year and felt problems with the brakes excessive.. and understand often very expensive to mechanics understanding how to get the ABS light to operate accurately.

Been very dependable vehicle though upkeep seems to be expensive and suppose with gas prices at present and do not seem to be decreasing perhaps unwise choice for retirees.

Thank you and perhaps need to find dealership out of town to check this ABS sensor problem since two opinions often best.

Joyce.

My daughter has the same 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Inline six 4.0. This truck has more electrical issues than a worldwide blackout. Due to the electrical issues I have revoked the vehicle from her use and got rid of it. Definitely not a good nor safe "first car" for your child.

Mine has 129k on it and never had much, but the A/C pump went out. And an oil leak. Other than that, I've only changed spark plugs and blinkers. And drive mine everyday.

I have a 98 grand cherokee... putting in shop due to brake problems... the rear brakes and the ABS light seems to be staying on.. not sure what the problem is until taken to the shop... but other than that it has been running OK... and it has low miles due to the year it is.

I have a 98 JGC with 202700+.

The transmission was replaced at 175000 and recently it has developed a slight stalling problem.

Additionally the rear left automatic door lock makes a bit of noise and finally, she leaks some oil from worn gaskets in the otherwise reliable 4.0 6 cyl.

Overall it has been a great car.