1996 Jeep Cherokee Country from North America - Comments

Heater control valve. Cost around $30 and was very easy to install along with all new hoses.

I purchased this Cherokee Country with 161,000 miles on it. The previous owner has taken good care of it. I have always considered a vehicle with over 100,000 miles as being over the hill. I have come to a new understanding with Jeeps, as I consider this Jeep as having the equivalent of 60,000 miles. I reasonably expect to put 300,000 miles on it.

Many say and I agree, the 4.0 litre power-tech in-line six cylinder engine is "bullet proof" and very responsive with 190 horsepower and 225 foot pounds of torque.

It is also rewarding to modify for increased horsepower with a Jet Stage 2 chip, 62mm bored throttle body, Hi-performance ignition system, Hi-flow catalytic converter and Flowmaster 70 series muffler. These modifications should result with around 225 horsepower.

The Cherokee has a curb weight of only 2983 pounds which is about 800 pounds lighter than the Grand Cherokee.

The braking system slows the Cherokee very well.

The four speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly.

I strongly suggest the full time four wheel drive transfer case.

Addition of steering skid plate, transfer and fuel tank skid plate is recommended for those who really want to enjoy their jeeps well rounded capabilities. Tow hooks should have come standard on all Cherokees.

The interior is comfortable, but it certainly could use a bit more cargo area and with the spare tire designed to go underneath the vehicle (which Chrysler did eventually).

The handling is tight and precise and surprisingly agile. It is a bit choppy and you feel more "as one " with your Jeep while driving. Anyone who does not like that should choose a foreign Wuss U V.

The 96 Cherokee has a driver side air bag and received a government 4 star rating driver and passenger.

Fuel mileage is about 16 city and 20 highway. But it is so much fun to drive, it is hard to keep your foot off the throttle so mileage may suffer.

Parts are relatively inexpensive and are readily available.

There are many Jeep clubs and activities for Jeep enthusiasts.

I also have done extensive research regarding the best tires for the Jeep Cherokee and the highest ranked in dry, wet, snow and ice traction is the Bridgestone Dueler AT Revo. They look great too and have a tread depth of 16/32 of an inch new. They also are designed to retain a high level of performance in rubber composition as the tire ages and wears.

Welcome to the family, fellow Jeeper :-)

I agree with all of above. Bought my '96 Cherokee from a Jeep specialist a year ago, paid too much (it was in terrific condition for 120K miles) and it's been a blast.

Changed oil to Mobil 1, then had to fix rear main seal leak (no surprise) and changed to synthetic trans fluid. Beyond regular maintenance in the last 20K miles had front brakes with rebuilt calipers (brakes were grabbing), lower temp thermostat fixed heating up problem in hot Texas weather.

It's surprisingly comfortable on long road trips (great seats, some wind noise). Engine is superb! and I'm about to install 62mm throttle body to enhance Flowmaster exhaust that was installed by previous owner. Ride is a little bouncy at times, but it feels like it will hang together forever. On one leg of a road trip I got 25mpg (there was a very strong tail wind) but I didn't by this Jeep for gas mileage. With careful driving can get close to 20mpg.

Concerning tires: right after I bought it I splurged for a set of Pirelli Scorpions. Not much road noise, great handling, OK on wet roads and good on dirt roads. This Jeep is not used for serious off-road stuff (2wd) but it did well on Colorado mountain trails.

It's not a luxury SUV, rear seat is good for adults on short drives or kids on long trips. If you want to impress the valet parking folks buy something else. It's a unique general purpose vehicle.

BTW - previous ride was a 3 series BMW.

I have had my Jeep for about a year now and I absolutely love it. There is a little noise and it doesn't heat up that fast, but it is one of the most reliable cars that I have had. I just wish Jeep would come out with something worthy of replacing this venerable machine.

I am thinking about buying a 1996 Jeep Cherokee Country for $1900.00. Is this a good deal? Are there any potential problems to look for or be aware of?

Thanks for your help!

I just bought my '96 Cherokee, and it is great! I was looking for something else, but this SUV caught my eye. As soon as I looked at it, it seemed to be in very good condition, but I worry about what is next due for servicing or replacement (since it is a 96 model); does anyone know what I need to look at first? It came with a new set of tires (Goodyear Wrangler), and the air conditioner is great (freezing!), and it is comfortable given that I'm 6'. Also, now with my children it is great to have more room; anyway now I'm a jeeper!!! It's good to be in the family!!!

I've owned my Cherokee since 1996, and it is the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I have 180,000 miles on it and it seems that 300,000 is well within reach if I can last long enough. It's also a lot of fun to drive.