Top Common Engine Problems 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee SUV

[@mikehall9831]

My 2000 XJ has 372,000 miles and we are the original owner, AWESOME! Gone thru 3 or 4 CPSs, replaced the o rings in the filter adapter once, still on original rear main (yeah, it leaks some and is the next project), and original exhaust manifold ('new' 2 piece design). No cracked head, still original 0331, but never over-heated. No valve issues most likely due to regular oil changes since day one. Last year my son got a '97 2 door 5 speed XJ that now has 302,000 on it, runs great, must have been taken care of. Looks like it had the oil pan gasket replaced, most likely the rear main at the same time. Had to replace to exhaust manifold and the CPS on his once so far. These things run forever!

[@deaddog3500]

Mechanic, she kept it simple and plain, thanks for the carbon buildup tip, I've been experiencing those symptoms for the past three weeks and no one knew what it was. They've sent me to the exhaust guy, exhaust guy to spark plug guy, spark plug guy to fuel filter guy, and so on....

[@1AAuto]

+dead dog Thanks for checking us out. Shop for high quality auto parts on 1AAuto.com: 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@JEEPDadXJ]

I've got a 1996 XJ SPORT with just over 390k on it, plus a 2000 TJ with only 190k, both with the 4.0L. Great video!

[@3dplanet100]

4.0L Cherokee came up really good vehicles. My dad had a 92 Cherokee for more than 15 years with a quarter million miles. He junked it a couple years ago because it didnt want to start and was not worth to repair it becuase it had a lot of wear. But still, it was a really good SUV. When you see an old car, most of the time is a Jeep Cherokee or Grand Cherokee, Honda Civic or Accord, or a Toyota Camry or Corolla. Best (affordable) cars ever, in my opinion.

[@matthart24]

Just got a 00' XJ so this video arrived just in time ! Thanks 1A !

[@1AAuto]

+Matthew Hartman Thanks for checking us out. Shop for high quality auto parts on 1AAuto.com: 1aau.to/m/Shop-1AAuto-c

[@jamesdoerr4318]

I plan on buying an XJ soon. Thanks for the video.

[@many-points]

Sometimes (at least with the Renix Jeep 4.0L) you can get away with just unplugging the crankshaft position sensor for about 5 minutes than plugging it back in. That has worked every time (so far) for my 1989 Cherokee when I've had crank/no start condition. Obviously that isn't a permanent but can get you home in a pinch.

[@kg4lzc]

My Ex. Manifold cracked bad but I welded it really well. I gave it away several years ago and actually they just gave it back to me two days ago and it still sounds great with no leaks.

[@stanwatkins1877]

I have 2 99 Cherokee 4.0 engine and have not experienced exhaust manifold cracks. Both have over 200K miles.

[@FloridaSunMitochondria]

This mechanic is excellent she did a video on CRV starter replacement which takes some skill.

[@MajorWeakness]

Even with its problems, the 4.0 is one of the most bullet proof engine ever made

[@1AAuto]

+Major Weakness Thanks for the feedback!

[@keokiheller4351]

These guys have the best videos🤙🏽

[@jaderamos46]

This is my second xj so far... Love these... Next one will be a 2door

[@martymcfly3986]

great video, very well explained. she really knows this stuff. thank you

[@lavapix]

Exhaust Valve leak might be the issue on my 99. I got a Gibson ceramic-coated performance header after a couple aftermarket manifolds failed in a year or less. 5.5 years and holding up great. Even survived a few severe death wabbles.

[@jamesbaker5096]

The rocker cover leansback thus when it develops leaks it runs straight down and can look like a rear main leak ,so be sure to run your hand on the back of that cover to see if it's wet ,it's a lot easier to change that uper gasket vs the rear main ,justsayn.

[@evanthomas7116]

I could do these rear main seals all day! Easy job bad design nice video 👌🏾

[@ibberman]

Easy for you to say.

[@mrweird-qk2fg]

The harmonic balancer is a problem too

[@1AAuto]

+mr. weird Thanks for the tip!

[@djsuava9398]

Great video, I learned something today. Thanks👍❤

[@onefastcyclist]

Good points! However, the best way to make the sensors last longer is to fix the cooling problem and vent the hood to let the heat out. All electric components will last longer when the under hood temperature lowers. Poor parts a real problem - replace a rear main seal and it will leek again after a year or so. I tell people that jeeps leak and only repair it if you leave an embarrassing puddle of oil when ever you park. In addition, Clean your throttle body and idle motor often - this isn't a Honda with a large fuel filter.

[@privateer177666]

The plastic tanks on the radiator is prone to cracks & leakage. I purchased an all welded aluminum 3 row replacement radiator for under $200.

[@robedmund9948]

Yep! Just replaced the radiator and hoses on my '93 XJ Sport. Fun wrenching time with my son. 154k and climbing!

[@datkuntryboi3852]

On the crankshaft position sensor, when you say get a good one? Do you mean like a Chrysler Jeep brand?

[@SSN515]

Yep. Always spring for the Mopar parts. You'll actually save money in the long run. The Jeep Forum people say that every day.

[@datkuntryboi3852]

@@SSN515 thanks because I actually purchased a MasterPro Ignition crankshaft position sensor and put it on. But I'm thinking that it may be the ECM?🤷🏾‍♂️

[@SSN515]

@@datkuntryboi3852 I'd go over to a couple of Jeep XJ online forums and do a look up and/or ask the gurus there. I'm more of a Jeep KJ and KK guy. In my experience, when you start messing with a new ECM, you'll oft times open up new a can of worms.

[@datkuntryboi3852]

@@SSN515 oh lord🤦🏾‍♂️

[@ibberman]

@James Viehmann If you can get them.

[@marinoldus]

I miss my 1999 Cherokee. My daughter wrecked it though.

[@cv4wheeler]

One not mentioned, on automatic transmissions XJs--transmission position sensor. Will keep your car from even trying to start.

[@joshashdown4431]

Thanks! This was a great video.

[@vinopod]

Great video, thanks!

[@christopherfuller8815]

Great channel with helpful tips. My 01 XJ has a Dana 36 rear axle. I’m hearing a whirling sound from the rear differential and am wondering what to do - have it rebuilt or go about swapping it out for something else from a junk yard, etc. any thoughts of what to do?

[@ashleyharroun1724]

This helped me so much!! I have a 97 and this answered so many questions! Thank you!

[@jjuggernaut3218]

Good video!

[@officialWWM]

I’ve had almost all these problems except the crank sensor. I’m not looking forward to that day :/

[@bryan_nothere]

Awesome car an video!

[@alejandrob6606]

Hello, I have a 2001 Jeep Cherokee and when I put R or D it feels like a kick, I appreciate that you can give me ideas on what to check, thank you

[@robertsims6136]

GOOD VIDEO.

[@frankporfidio9813]

Any way of knowing when a crankshaft sensor is going to go ? Any symptoms leading up to it or just BOOM ! It's dead ?

[@a105-t5m]

Great vid, mostly agree, however, her accent says she isn't from my state but still up north. Don't be fooled, that exhaust manifold replacement job is usually not friendly nor easy or fast for us rustbelt fools. Theres a real good chance you'll drill and tap some of that block. Otherwise, great vid, great engine, rear springs will give you heck due to unibody construction. (the front points specifically). Or just rock the cherokee sag.

[@1987mule]

I have a 2001 Cherokee 2 wheel drive, no combustion leak so far but noticed a little butter scotch looking gunk under the oil cap. I only do a lot of short trips of 1-4 miles, no noticeable smoke or misfires. I've heard of possible condensation gets trapped and might be the cause. Any ideas, suggestions, or recommendations greatly appreciated.

[@erich84502ify]

I had one with a 2.5 4 cylinder

[@merrittmcdowell8675]

You failed to mention cracking heads and blown head gaskets are very common

[@1AAuto]

+merritt McDowell Thanks for the tip!

[@WedidLandONtheMOON]

Cylinder Head Casting #0331 (XJs 2000-2001) cracked between cylinder 3-4. Not all did but it is a possibility. The Grand Cherokee 4.0 had the problem till 2002...Why it cracked was a defect in the casting but also most people that own XJs don't keep up with cooling system and they overheat and the head cracks because of the defect. Most see the problem around 150k miles. The Jeep 4.0 are not known to blow head gaskets. If they do its because they were overheated many times. My 91 Jeep XJ 4.0 167k original miles and still running good other than a lifter problem and the head gasket is original.

[@caroljuristo6803]

I own a 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee, still running great , but at times my front windshield will film over , with a light dark smoke. Also it leaks through the vents. What could this be ?

[@rockyridge5006]

Well said:) jeeps 4life

[@javiermarcial2650]

How can you tell if it’s the exhaust manifold, what symptoms does it show ?

[@johntaylor4159]

can i swap a 2001xj 4.0 synchronizer to a 1999 distributor?

[@gastonnarvaez9624]

May be is not crazy idea to install a duct in the front grill to induct a fresh air to the

[@chipperhumphrey6233]

If that d/s motor mount rubber going that breaks header ever time

[@AHMED7AGAG]

Which model year is the best start 1992 to 2000?

[@jamespeterson5444]

1998

[@TK-ff5kc]

Forgot the big one, cracked head leaking coolant into the system ruining the cam and crank bearings

[@run2thefight]

What are the indicators because my sons 94 XJ has coolant in the engine but it ran and would just shut down after a couple of miles

[@MrEyad1990]

I love her.

[@caroljuristo6803]

V6

[@mikeray4578]

Dang!! That perhaps better than any "guy" video!! I'm glad I didn't place a bet!! LOL

[@RM-rj5ok]

Okay dude….

[@prestonboling1427]

put some respect of sue's name!

[@jerellwatkins230]

💚❤

[@Joe-sh2tf]

Stick a Chevy 305 in it, that'll solve the problem.

[@claycoates5056]

DUMB it is a JEEP not a CHEEP why bad gas milage bad lifters i think I'll stick with a JEEP

[@jjuggernaut3218]

Why pull a bulletproof engine and drop in a lemon???

[@TikeWates]

The most overrated engine by far. Honestly it's horrible in the Cherokee

[@nonyayet1379]

quit flapping your grossly fat gums. the 4.0 is a junk engine top to bottom. it's only good if nothing goes wrong. (fat chance of that). it's junk, top to bottom.

[@360nastybusiness]

Eh no..

[@jamespeterson5444]

Guess you had one and didn,'t do $hit for maintenance !! LOL