1997 Jeep TJ Reviews - Page 2 of 5

Nothing major has gone wrong, just the expected problems that would normally go wrong with any other vehicle that gets driven daily.

Really a great vehicle year round. Cannot compare with any others when off road, even in 2 wheel drive. Handles really well on snowy roads.

Lots of low end torque great for those hills in the mountains of Maine, and best of all it always starts, even at -35 deg F.

- Thanks Jeep -

Replaced radiator, exhaust manifold, wheel bearings etc, water pump, new top 2 years ago.

Paint fading on plastic fender flares is common with the 97 Jeep and easily remedied with a can of lawn furniture spray paint. Mine turned out like new.

Best automobile I have ever owned for trouble fee driving and easy repairs.

Nothing major so far.

Replaced axle joints at 107k.

Seat belt receivers don't want to work sometimes.

Replaced sway bar mounts and links at 108k.

Transmission mount was bad when I bought it.

Handles really well for an S.U.V.

Cannot complain about the gas mileage I have been getting; around 18-20 in town with 31s, but with extras under the hood too, and no muffler.

Has plenty of power. No need to have it more than half throttle on a steep hill.

Goes anywhere I want it to... places my 4Runner could not go.

Very very reliable. Would not have a problem driving cross country with it.

Starts every time at -10 deg F.

Seriously, this car is bulletproof.

- I replaced the front brakes at 205k because they weren't up to par for my 33" tires. Just part of maintenance.

- I have to replace my seat belt receiver because it doesn't always stay in.

- I believe my ball joints are going out now at almost 230k.. I can't believe they have lasted that long.. I am a bit abusive at times..

Well let's start: I can get 14 mpg in town with nearly 1/4 million miles. It starts and runs perfect everyday. I use it as a commuter, to hunt, fish, camp, take up in the high country.

This Jeep has had a hard life. The 4.0 inline 6 engine roars when you hit the gas, great transmission. It will go anywhere.. extremely capable, seats aren't all that comfortable.

I keep my Jeep maintained immaculately. Every 2500-5000 miles I run 10-40 Napa Gold high mileage oil. I run Royal Purple gear oil in my differentials and transmission, and Royal Purple ATF in my transfer case. Buy it with the 4.0 and 5-speed and you'll have a long long life.

Jeeps I have owned in the past:

- 1961 CJ5.. 195k miles

- 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.0 335k and still on the road

- 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited V8-130k

- 1995 Jeep Cherokee Sport 435k. Just replaced the trans once..

- 1988 Jeep YJ 2.5L 5-speed 155k still going strong.

Exhaust manifold stud broke, creating a loud licking start. Sound would disappear after manifold expanded from heat.

Radiator is starting to leak and will need to be replaced.

Transfer case shifter squeaks over bumps.

Top was torn and stained (i did buy the thing used and it was 7 years old with factory soft top)

Front passenger floor floods after rain storm.

Back passenger (right side) floor also floods.

Oil pump went at 90,000.

A/C system failed and created droning hum when in drive. Replaced last fall.

Passenger seat slide forward mechanism broke, so I can't completely fold up the front seat to allow rear riders an easy entrance.

Other than that- and you'll hear this from any Jeep owner- the thing is a blast to drive and I plan on buying anew one when the funds are available.

I bought the Jeep used at around 80k. It has given me quite a few issues. However, I have not a single problem with the motor or trans. They both sound strong and I'd imagine it will stay like that as long as I keep up with the TLC.