Grand Cherokee

[Mike Kelly]

OK, so you guys know that I love Toyota trucks (obviously, or there would not be a board to post this on!). But, when it comes down to it, we all have to work on a budget. So, here is my situation.... I have 2 small kids (6 month old and a 3.5 year old). I have a 97 Corolla - extremely small. It's time for something bigger, but i don't have the $$ for a 4Runner (that's what I really want). Safety is a big concern, but i have to stay in the budget. It seems that the 2000 J**p Grand Cherokee V8 is in the budget for everything that the misses wants.

That said, anyone have any bad/good experiences with this vehicle? Please share your thoughts.

BTW, I am already beating myself up for not getting a TOY, so please reserve your comments as I have thought of them ALL!! At least I still have my 97 taco!!

Thanks!

[DeadlyPeace]

Hey Mike*

I know we all can't have what we want, but the important thing is that we can be happy with what we have or can get.

I've known quite a few people that had the J**p Cherokees or Grand Cherokee and seem to have always been a fairly reliable vesicle as long as it's been taken care of. So as far as it's a good runner and seems to be in good condition I'd go for it.

[glow=red,2,300] ;D GOOD LUCK and HAPPY HUNTING ;D[/glow]

[Jackson]

The newer ones are decent if they are taken care of. If you don't treat them well, it's not uncommon for them to burn/leak oil. Other than that, they are decent vehicles. I will say that they ride better than my 4Runner did when it was stock, but mine is still a Toyota.

I know you said to keep the "buy a toy instead" comments to ourselves, but if you are buying used, a 4Runner with 75k miles will (9 times out of 10) be a better rig for a longer time than a GC with 40k miles. Should be able to get them for a similar price too.

[Mike Kelly]

Thanks guys... i know, i have been looking for a 4Runner that is in the price range, but they are few and far between around here. No one wants to let them go! The wife will be the primary driver on it, so she wants lots of comfort and the nice little amenities (that are usually the first thing to break). I can't argue with her, cuz she will be in it 90% of the time. And hey, a happy wife = a happy family!

But no one has heard of any types of problems that i should be on the lookout for?

thanks again....

[fourwd1]

Back in early 2001 when I decided my XJ Cherokee was too small I started looking for a late model used SUV, mainly a GC, which I thought to be a great vehicle. When I started researching, what I found was enough to make me run from a GC. I encountered too many horror stories from owners. A lot of engineering problems with the V8 rear axle, recalls and lack of parts to service the recalls. I started looking again, used 4Runners were outrageously priced, the Exploder and S10 Blazer were out of the question. Then my research lead me to the Isuzu Trooper. Very roomy but not too big, a 235 HP V6, a great PT/FT 4WD system. 12" discs rear/11" discs front, built on a heavy duty chassis. 10 yr/100,000 mi warranty, etc, etc. I found a left over 2000 model for a steal and love it. It rides great on the road and even does well offroad for a stock IFS vehicle.

BTW, I have also talked to GC owners that have had no problems, so they're not all bad.

[4xfred]

;D One of our customers, a PA. Senator, has a 2001 GC.,w/45,000, as his DD. He's currently in "lemon law" negotiations. This vehicle has been a problem since day 1. The #1 complaint has been front brake issues. The dealer has put on 4 sets of rotors & pads only to have a major pedal pulsation recurr in 2-3000 miles. #2 is this designs ability to wear out a set of tires very quickly. He has it serviced(LOF, rotate...) every 3500 miles & is still lucky to get 20,000 out of a set of tires. In addition, the following has been replaced: water pump, d/s power window motor, p/s power lock actuator, rear hatch lock actuator, both rear inside door handles, cooling fan module & relay. Not trying to scare you off ;D ;D But remember, lower $$$ is not always the best deal. Later...

[Mike Kelly]

well, it is no scare to me... i need to know these things. I will be sure to check them all out.

Appreciate the input!

[DeadlyPeace]

Mike said:

a happy wife = a happy family!

You've got a good point there and she should be the one...in a way....making the final decision.

Of course I’ve always said……

[glow=red,4,300]That your home is where the heart is, [/glow]
[glow=red,4,300]And your home is the house of love[/glow]
[glow=red,4,300]You have to build as a family,[/glow]
[glow=red,4,300]And a house without walls[/glow]
[glow=red,4,300]Is just a roof on the ground.[/glow]

[Sean]

Nothing wong with solid axle coil sprung front and a leaf sprung rear. I really like the Grand Cherokee.
It could be worse Mike, I just picked up a mini van for my wife today. Nuff said.

[Mike Kelly]

I hear ya Sean... I have vowed to NEVER buy a mini-van, but I was real close to breaking that when I realized just how much most SUV's cost.

I did pick up the GC, and I must say, it is nice. A big departure from riding in my Taco. Most of it is just luxury type stuff, I have yet to really drive it hard or test out the 4x4. But for a family vehicle, it fits the bill.

Thanks for all the advise guys!

[4xfred]

;D Why are you guys so against a "minivan"? ;D First, WE own a 99 Grand Caravan. So far, it's been the most dependable ride I've ever owned. Second, YOU GUYS name me another vehicle that can haul 7 people, their gear, a boat,loaded & still get 20+mpg?! Third,when was the last time ANYBODY saw a "minivan" pulled over?? Stereotypes BE DAMNED!!!See Ya in the rearview... Later...

[dman33733]

I have alot of experience with Grand Cherokees and have found them to be great vehicles on and off the road. There are gobs of aftermarket options for them and would encourage you to buy one, even though it isn't Toyota