1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo review from North America
"Lovable car with aftermarket rotors"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Within one week of my purchase of this vehicle as a lease return, my fuel pump gasket went. The dealer immediately took care of this problem for no charge.
About four months in, at around 50k miles, the parking break stopped functioning. The dealer took care of that under warranty, sans deductible.
About the same time, as everybody else on this board has had problems with, my car started shaking violently going down hills under hard breaking. I read these reviews, bought aftermarket rotors and pads for about $300, replaced them myself, and have never had a problem since.
Recently, at 80k, my catalytic converter became clogged - from my previous automotive experience (6 American cars, one Volvo), this seems pretty standard.
My airbag light came on around 60k, dealer turned it off at no charge to me, saying that one of the connecting pins had bent.
I replace the serpentine belt at 70k; couldn't have been easier. I recommend that everyone who owns one replaces it themselves and saves $100. It took me less than 5 minutes, and only required one tool - a large socket drive.
General comments?
I'm quite fond of this vehicle. Though the quality isn't on par with something out of Japan, it is consistent with most American vehicles, and is quite likable.
I have a strong desire for leather seats, even though the cloth is very supportive.
Recommended reviews
| 1999 - Grand Cherokee Laredo 4.0 Inline Six Reasonably reliable, unreasonably priced, and luxury fit for a King |
| 1998 - Grand Cherokee 5.9 LTD 5.9 V8 Tough as nails |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.0 I-6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 36000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 85000 miles |
| Previous car | Dodge Dakota |
| Date of Entry | 14th February, 2004 |