WJ Buyers Guide - Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ Good, Bad, Ugly

[@DEInTheGarage]

SORRY ABOUT THE STATIC IN THE AUDIO. SOMETHING HAPPENED POST EDITING WHEN I UPLOADED TO KZbin. I WILL TRY TO FIGURE IT OUT TO AVOID IT ON FUTURE UPLOADS.

[@mrhighway]

How about the weak air flow though the vent?

[@digitalchaos1980]

Being a tech and radio nerd, it sounds like your cellphone could have possibly been interfering. Almost sounded like CDMA, possibly Sprint or Verizon lol. IF you did figure it out already, please let me know as I am curious as well! As for the video, LOVED it! I recently got a 2003 WJ Laredo with every option, 4.0, unfortunately it has the 42re and is only 2WD, BUT it was given to me as it had an electrical problem (which I'm STILL working on) and the lady was about to scrap it! It had a new battery and half a tank of fuel and I literally drove it home and have been driving it since. I love it man, but I do want to do a convert to 4WD at some point if I can. The only downside, which I learned thru your video here, is about the axles can only be from another WJ. That's a bummer. Is it that they're not drop-in plug'n'play from other Jeeps? Or do they not work at all even with modification? Anyways, you got a new subscriber and I look forward to your other vids. Thanks from N FL! :)

[@DEInTheGarage]

@@digitalchaos1980 Hey, sorry. Just saw this. It was actually my windshield camera mount has a loose screw which was vibrating. crazy, right? Thanks for the suggestions!

[@digitalchaos1980]

@@DEInTheGarage Wow that is definitely crazy lol. Wouldn't think that would make that kinda noise but hey we all learn something new every day, right? Lol. Also, you may have missed the questions at the end of my comment there about the axles. Probably because I tend to type a book when I comment lol, so my apologies lol. Anyways, I'm still loving and driving my WJ and have totally nerded it out inside and out with tech and radio stuff. Everyone thinks I'm a storm chaser in my town haha. Thanks for the reply! :-)

[@clintona4135]

@@mrhighway There was a dealer installed option for a cabin filter. I need to check if I have that - it might be plugged solid.

[@jaygreer7430]

Great information! I’m the original owner of a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4.7 HO, which is still my daily driver. Minor issues are popping up here and there, but it runs well with just under 185K miles. I only recently discovered your channel, years after you made this video! All the best to you!

[@p.j.vallier9197]

Great video!! On the 4.0, you can remove the oil cap and shine a flashlight straight down inside and see "TUPY" to see if you have the better head casting. I've owned my 03 WJ Laredo 4.0 base model for 10 years now. When I bought it, it was as low as a base model could get, 2wd, didn't even have fog lights or auto head lights. I installed the complete interior from an 04 Overland which looks nice and came with the heated seats (had to hard wire the passenger seat). In the 10 years I have owned it, I've only had to pay a mechanic at times of inspection and for mounting tires. Some other mods I have it is converting it to a true 4x4 (242HD, 3.73 Vari-lok's) sitting on approx 31.5" Goodyear Duratrac's, IRO 3" lift with Bilstein shocks, K&N FIPK w/heat shield, 4 hole injectors, super chips tune for motor and tires, Doug Thorley headers, Mangaflow Hi Flow precats/downpipe, 2.5 exhaust, Flowmaster 70, the list goes on. I bought mine with 80k on the clock and am still running strong at 310k. If the motor ever blows, I can't complain because I have a 04 parts rig with a 4.0 just waiting. Long live the WJ!!!!!

[@leighsteel7776]

Hello from Australia, I've had three 4.7 Limiteds, now have 03 Overland 4.7, love WJ's, best 4wd ever made.

[@jfish9014]

My dream daily driver was always a WJ. Growing up, my parents had a ZJ, and I always begged them to upgrade, but they felt the WJ was smaller on the inside than the more squared up ZJ... 20 years later, and I'm the proud owner of a near mint 2004 Overland for less than $5k. #winning!

[@DakotaRaymond1999]

The WJ is huge compared to the ZJ lol

[@garettjohnson2234]

@@DakotaRaymond1999 same size but I think wj has a smaller engine bay and more roomy interior.

[@dbstewart7521]

Me, too

[@Danny-qq5nr]

Mine is a 2003 4.0 quadra drive with 62.000 genuine miles had it for ten years, well pleased UK 🇬🇧

[@dsloan4776]

Ive got a 2004 Overland which I purchased when it was 3 years old. Currently has 226,000 miles and has been virtually trouble free. Except for strict service, Orig engine never touched, orig tranny never touched, even has orig alternator, ac compressor and starter - and until last summer it had orig radiator, water pump and hoses. It uses no oil and I tow a lot with it. Its still very comfortable, reliable and I am aiming for 300,000 now!

[@cherokeeronnie]

I been a xj guy for years bought my first wj couple weeks ago and I’m in love!!!!

[@BrianVonClick]

Now that some time has gone by, what would you say? I’ve looked at nearly 30 XJ’s near me, and they’ve all been JUNK. The ZJ’s I tend to find are nearly parts vehicles.. I’m getting really discouraged. But, there are LOTS of super clean WJ’s out there; just the looming threat of electrical gremlins and cooling issues with the 4.7. I’m looking at a 2001 WJ Quadra Drive 4.7 Limited this afternoon. 81k miles on it.

[@masongunther1570]

I've got a 2004 wj with the 4.7 and I got 242000 miles on it and it's still going strong

[@CHMernerner]

Go for 300k Club! 👍

[@JZen_25]

I'm about to go pick one up 2004 Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4. About 190,000 miles on it. What are some things I should keep an eye out? @Mason Gunther

[@tommyjones751]

I just bought my first one a 2004 wj 4.7 v8 210,000miles 4wd runs great for $1100 bucks I love it now I'm ready to mod it lol!

[@sheebzT509]

My first jeep was a 2002 jeep grand cherokee Laredo 4.7L V8 4x4 that held up and actually worked great for 10 years til i sold it to my brother. I replaced it with another 2002 jeep grand Cherokee but the overland edition with the 4.7L V8 H.O. 4x4, and have had it almost 3 years now and love it. Its definitely louder than my first one with the custom modified exhaust system, its got the get up and go and literally absolutely loves to go fast! Plus I love all the upgrades that my laredo did not have... heated seats, power everything, auto tinting mirrors, 10 disc cd changer in back, built in amp with the Harmon kardon premium speakers & sound system, leather and suede seating, wood trim, tow hooks, tow hitch, sunroof... But overall super solid rigs all the way around. With the older the vehicle gets, changing the oil every 3000 miles has been best, and well just maintaining it as best you can is really all you can do to extend the life of your jeep, or any vehicle really that you have. One issue that both my jeeps had though that is really a bitch to deal with, is the jeep death wobble... THAT SHIT SUCKS! But anyway like I said, had this second jeep for almost 3 years now, and since buying it, I've had to replace the alternator, starter, the belt, tires, thermostat, water pump, fan clutch, lift supports all the way around, 1 window regulator, brake pads, calipers, caliper brackets, guide pins, speakers.... Listen I will say each one of those events was a bit of a heachache and a pain in the ass, but they were necessary fixes that in the end I can say that my jeep at this moment, with something like 218k miles on it, still runs like a dream, a badass on multiple terrains, and can handle any type of weather condition. With continued proper maintenance on it, I'm sure I'll be getting another 80k out of it, AT THE VERY LEAST

[@DEInTheGarage]

Sounds like you have a hell of a Jeep Resume! Respect!

[@hernymejias]

I love my ‘04 Overland, metallic midnight blue.

[@thomasjames4419]

I have an 02 overland I love it!

[@ianbestor1528]

@@thomasjames4419 My '02 Overland just suffered the infamous valve drop at 135k. Only had it for a year.

[@jimbill6205]

03 Laredo, 4.7, 242HD, factory tow and skid plates, 2" budget boost, 44A, 373's and vari-lock as bought with 120k miles after searching far and wide. Added JKS track bar, new plugs, radiator hose, and 2 window regulators, and full fluids change. Runs like a champ, I like it a lot. Next month hitting Death Valley for some decent 4x4 action, hoping to find out I love it.

[@CMDR-Cody]

Dude, WJs are the best. I love mine, it's my dream Jeep.

[@DEInTheGarage]

Right on!

[@felipeiturreyes3385]

👍👍

[@357bullfrog2]

My dream jeep is a willys pickup.

[@654Crossman]

I'm a ZJ guy. I'm almost done swapping 4.7s in a WJ for my sister, though. It seems nice, but I prefer my Selec Trac system over her quadratec

[@Bisnus-Goose]

Damn right brother that bitch can tow more than the new fake gladiators

[@drewhetherly1913]

My first car is a 2004 Jeep wj with the 4.0 I absolutely love it! The trans went out at 236,000 miles and the motors still good but I bought another engine and trans and it’s going in now!

[@zakskinner4780]

I just bought my first jeep. 1999 4.0 limited. 242k miles. You just gave me confirmation that I made a great purchase. Great video!

[@travisnfunk]

Got me a 99 laredo 4.7 quadradrive with all the creature comforts, bought it a couple years ago. Its my first jeep amd i love it, have had some issues and still working thru some but wouldnt get rid of it. Its got 398k on it and still going strong. I would rather dump another 5g into it than buy anything else. Much respect to you and your chanel.

[@DEInTheGarage]

Dang! knocking down 400k's door! Respect on that one. Any particular advice for getting mine to go that long?

[@johnsbuilds8354]

I’ve got an 03 6cyl with 410 thousand km on the original motor and trans I bought it for 500 bucks and I’m totally in love with it. It doesn’t tow/haul nearly as well as my Comanche but is a joy to drive and does everything

[@xtcsnowboarderx]

about a year ago I acquired a 2001 wj with a 0331 casted head. I knew from a friend telling me about the castings ( I used to have YJ's and TJ's not affected by this) , it had a bad head gasket and I didn't wish to take my chances with the 0331 head. Clearwater castings makes a NEW casted/ strengthened and fully assembled head for roughly $500ish (can buy from them or on Amazon). I went down that path and as of now I cannot be any happier making that choice. Thanks for the videos!, I'm from Nj as well.

[@garyd.7294]

Hey Dave, great commentary! On point! I love my 2000 Grand Laredo w/2 inch lift. You are right on about the gas tank. The average vehicle would rear-end me mid hood or more! I'm a steel fabricator so I'll fix that. I never thought about it until your video. THANK YOU!

[@RMTCTL]

I am a new WJ owner. I bought an '04 Laredo with the 4.0. I've had an XJ for years and am familiar with the 4.0, so I didn't feel bad getting a Jeep with 163,000 miles on it. It's a nice ride, but it has been needing a lot of work. The previous owner beat on it and wheeled it fairly hard. I'm slowly working my way through the issues, but I'm not a mechanic, so I end up needing to take it to various shops for the more involved stuff. For the most part, I'm loving the WJ. I love how stuff from the different model years is just plug and play. I replaced the stock overhead EVIC unit with one that has HomeLink in it with no additional work. And it only cost me $8 at the junkyard. They do seem like very well thought-out machines. I really like how quiet they are compared to the XJ. I love my XJ, but it does get a little noisy and cramped inside.

[@bigjohnson1148]

I'm in England and just bought a wj 4.7 v8 and its such a good jeep it's a 2002 with 74 thousand full service history. I had the 4 litre xj a few years back and I prefer my wj. Good review dude.

[@tylermaple8307]

Love your enthusiasm for the WJ. We bought my ‘03 Laredo a year used. It’s been pampered it’s whole life, last summer I cut out the rockers, free’d up all the rust, patched it up plexiglass over fiberglass (then bond-o, primer, painted it). Upgrading to Quadra-drive has been on my wish list for a LONG time. Just bought the up-country suspension kit and Addco 7/8” swaybar. Recently added homelink, auto-dimming mirrors, auto-headlights, retrofitted bi-xenon (not the amazon/bay specials you usually see), mopar exhaust tip, chrome hooks, JUST fitted the five spoke ‘Columbia’ rims and searching for the Graphite metallic gray ‘04 front bumper and driver fender moulding (I have all the other trim parts to upgrade it to the Columbia trim package). 177,000 miles - lived in Northern/Western Michigan it’s whole life and (now) not a speck of body rust! Only annoying thing about my WJ... there’s a teakettle whistle that comes from the drivers side of the engine bay whenever it the temp drops below freezing and I take my foot off the gas. I have COMPLETELY refurbished the throttle body and four mechanics have looked at it, no one has been able to figure it out. Thinking it’s an old intake manifold gasket?

[@BioNexX]

Your probably the only person I know of that has the same whistle as me. 03 laredo and it kills me to hear that noise. I used to think it was the idler pulley since I replaced the alternator but then I noticed its on the drivers side and now im considering what you just said the intake manifold.

[@djpup3887]

Brought my 2004 wj laredo with the 4.7 bout 3 weeks ago for $2,500 with 106,000 miles. Its my first jeep but I have always wanted the wj loved the body and everything bout it.

[@everydaysituationshelpande4110]

Most handsome body on and jeep... I love my 01..

[@bogiyt8746]

Continuing my research on the car and watching videos. Even with the static, very informative video, thanks!

[@risbill1]

Great video and I completely agree. My first Jeep was a 1986 Wagoneer Limited and then I would up getting a surplus Kaiser from the forest service which was awesome because of the PTO drive winch. Unfortunately both of those died and now I have a 2006 Grand Cherokee Limited with the 5.7 HEMI and I am in love again.

[@russellwhaley3728]

Great video! I recently bought a 2003 Overland edition w/ 204k miles. The only issue I had was the “death wobble.” The original owner had it built for some serious off-roading and a few of the suspension parts were worn. After fixing those I got some vibration from worn U-joints. After that fix it runs really smooth. I had a 2014 Grand Cherokee and I didn’t lose much comfort going to the 2003.

[@takenursht8701]

Super glad i saw this video. Very knowledgeable guy you can tell you know your jeeps. Learned alot and ill probably watch this video multiple times. Thanks bro

[@mathewchavez9343]

Same

[@bullishsilver1840]

03 4.7L H.O. here. Best rig I've ever owned. Bought @190k miles, only had one owner before me. Pretty much mint condition. LOVE MY WJ

[@libertythug]

I currently own an 04 WJ Spec. Edition w/ the 4.0L. For the most part it is a very good SUV. Second, to my LX470. Since picking my Jeep up w/ 160k, I've had to replace several sensors that are common w/ these WJs: O2, Throttle Position, Crankshaft. There are also some electrical issues--especially the wiring by the front door hinge, starter motor, and radio/ radio display. If your door locks and windows are acting crazy or don't work, look inside the rubber door boot where the wires are located for broken wires. I've had to fix both driver and passenger side wiring. CV axles are also a pain to replace w/ good quality aftermarket parts. I just search through the junkyards for good used OEM axles. The dealer wants an arm and leg for new ones!

[@imjeepnmike]

My favorite WJ is my ‘04 Overland. Your Limited really reminds me of it with a couple minor exceptions like the HO 4.7 liter and the chrome tow hooks. Mine came with the tow package too. I got mine new in ‘04 and have driven it ever since. You’re right about the transmission, had to have mine rebuilt.

[@DEInTheGarage]

If I could go back in time, but could only do one thing I would buy a 2004 WJ from the factory. That is awesome man.

[@gatesj777]

LOL Mike he has a corner on the market for used chrome tow hooks if you watch some of his salvage yard videos. I bet his limited will have some on it soon!

[@gsxr800]

Awesome video. I also have a 2002 WJ 4.0. 4” IRO lift, 32” tires, transfer case skid, adjustable control arms up front, 12,000lb winch. I off road it often. Got a chance to take it to Rausch Creek off road park in PA. It did very well. Usually I feel like the unicorn surrounded by wranglers. But I always get compliments on it!!

[@GremberH]

yes the static was a bit annoying, specially since i had my 1 year old watching his show on the tv and me on my laptop with a headset. once we got passed that, great review man!! you know your WJs and it shows! definitely subscribing! great work!

[@DodgeSparkles]

Blue 03 Overland here. I never owned a Grand Cherokee before this one and I never really had any thoughts on them until now. Mine was in really bad shape when I got it. At the time I did not realise just how bad it was until I had it for a few days and started fixing the problems I thought it had. Turned out it needed a transmission rebuild and a new water pump with lots of other minor problems that was much cheaper and easier to fix. Since then I have had nothing but joy when driving this car. It is incredibly comfortable, sounds great, has the solid axles which was the only reason I even looked at the WJ. What a car!

[@questioneverything1123]

A great video. thanks for posting / sharing... A huge WJ fan here too... a more modern style. I wanted coil springs (no leaf) it drives super nice. I wanted the 4.0 IL6 (reliability / simplicity) I would sell my fancy German 5.5L performance car, before I would sell my 03 WJ... it is a great vehicle!!! My one owner, garaged cherry 03 WJ which was wrecked (totaled in 2015, after only 1,800 miles driven, "barely even knew the vehicle”) Bent front axle, R control arms, lower control arm frame mount. Essentially had to rework the entire front end of the vehicle. Thankfully, it had no frame damage. I decided to do the work myself, installed a Rough Country Long Arm lift kit and had to learn about many things, rebuilding, suspensions and set up as I went. ~ I never had a death wobble, at any points... which kind of surprises me. Glad that I did the work... was very much worth it.

[@johncox7722]

My first WJ was a used '99 w. the I6. Those bodies are built so tough they ended up saving two of my kids from any harm at all, even the one who was the 'jam' in a 4 car sandwich on a San Francisco freeway! I currently have an '02 Laredo which I built a stroker for - now has the same H.P. as my '04 Overland (the stroker has a little 'extra' from a normal stroker build). Both are strong runners, although I am still working on the fact that the 4.7 HO runs a little warm - even after I did a complete rebuild (I do all my own work). Still, they are great in the Pacific Northwest winters and run like crazy. My stroker even gets better mileage than when it was a stock 4.0. A very nicely done video, btw.

[@juliangaines1763]

From Big JeepO truck club in Cleveland, love the channel bro, I have an 04 wj Laredo with the legendary 4.0 straight 6 at 219,5XX still running strong in 2019 after sitting 3 years prior to 2018 because of previous owner scared of death wobble, this thing is solid all around the bored, love Jeeps, true Jeeper, it's a keeper👌

[@DEInTheGarage]

Thanks! Keep on Jeepin on!

[@canyendyreng5996]

I just got my dream Wj! 04 overland with 145000. Not a single spec of rust on it. So excited to start building it

[@OneZoNinja]

Very knowledgeable man!! I just bought an 04 wj 4 liter inline 6 and ive been doing a lot of research. I just got more answers from your 1 video than I did from the last 5 combined! So thank you keep doing what your doing. Its great.

[@paulloken9858]

This is my second wj and I love it.. I got the 99 v8 with over 230 thousand miles on it.. still my favorite.

[@meanwillie2]

I bought a 2004 Overland Edition 4.7 v8 with all the bells and whistles, everything works on it and I mean everything and runs flawlessly. And for only 2300. Best deal ever. It's the Unicorn you mentioned. I would show a picture but youtube don't have the option in comment section.

[@johnskij5]

I have a 2004 WJ Limited, it is my daily driver and it has meet all my needs. It has over 15000 miles and I have gone over all of the system (Suspension, Brakes, Stater...) I bought it to tow behind my Motorhome when we travel. I can understand replacing all of the working parts, but last week I noticed that my key fob would not unlock the doors, and the passenger side windows did not work from the control panel (The driver side worked) and I can not open the back hatch. I took off the door cards and checked the wires running through the door hinges, everything intact. I took it to a Auto Electrical Shop and they found that the motor on the passenger would not work even using a outside 12 volt source. The Mechanic told me that he could replace the window motor, but I might be throwing good money after bad there might be more gremlins in the system that causes the right side of the cars electricals not to work. It seems that you are very knowledgeable about WJ's I was impressed with your video. What I would like to know is that replacing the Passenger Window Motor and Regulator with a new one allow my other electricals to work? (Is the power in a series like Christmas Lights if you break one leg, the remaining lights go off down stream)? What are your experiences? I don't want to trade it in or junk it (it has had a mild oil leak when I bought it 7 years ago that is getting worse (Rear Main Seal ?) but I can deal with that, I just don't want to buy another WJ and start all over with theses problems or worse! Please respond, after watching your video I gave you a thumbs up, subscribed, and rang the bell! Hoping to hear from you soon. John

[@jeepswagswerv3231]

01 laredo 4.0 190,000 miles bought it with 50,000 on it, best desicion I ever made. I had to do work to it but considering what I have put it through..shes my baby. 4" lift with k&n filter, platnium quad plugs and 31" tires with sway bar disconnects

[@erikmas1]

Just bought a wj and it’s absolutely awesome I put 32 inch tires on it and it continues to impress me

[@youngbodybag253]

Love my wj I have the 4.7 pushing 283k miles on the original engine and trans still runs and drives like new!

[@keliikoamiller8173]

Took me a couple days of serious diagnostics but I was finally able to pin point the mad vibration from the dana 35 rear end. I put the rear end on jacks and ran it at low rpm. The rear left wheel would move up and down 2 inches each rotation; problem was a bent axle instead of the driveshaft/differential. Oh, my pockets feel way better.

[@DEInTheGarage]

I had a 44A like that. good luck with it!

[@WJ_Warpig2024]

Love this . Great advice for new owners. I just got my 01 Limited 4.7 with Quadra Drive. So good .

[@dino450045]

Love the vid. Turning into a Jeep Thing guy myself. Picked up a 2003 overland . Picked it up for $1000. Seller said bad head gasket,,,, lol . Pulled motor and went to town on it.4.7 HO From what i can tell, and from machine shop said. Seems when they recommend HOAT antifreeze use it. this one had overheated. To which slightly warped heads. Which in return from heating and warpage causes valve guides to go. then egg shaping valve seats by misalignment. End case, complete valve job. At 176,000 miles the crank and block all perfect. Got to go back completely Stock! Machine shop explained the Hoat antifreeze will degrade over time, start to foam in the heads, then crystallize. Causing poor heat transfer, then the overheating problem. They see it in the chevy LS heads too. Anyone else run into this? PS: Motor going back in this week end but daughter had already claimed this one! So picked up a extremely mint 2004 inferno Red WJ Laredo 4.7 with a dropped valve for $500. These are very cheap to buy and a little motor work, i'm finding im a jeep nut now!

[@superkillr]

How did this go? 4.7's are known for dropping seats when overheated.

[@iamknow1]

I feel ya brother. Ive been driving my black unicorn for 10 years now. Love it! Stock still but i plan to add a 2in soon. Besides a couple broke bolts at the back of the manifold, no real issues. Well I blow threw window regulators pretty fast but that's a simple enough fix. I could not imagine driving anything else now.

[@team_suv7778]

I love my WJ man I’ve owned 3 this last one I bought 99 2wd gray cloth interior manual seats and I’ve had it for 2 years now it sits on a 4 inch short arms 4x4 231hd transfer case axles out of an 04 overland Jeep with Quadra drive leather silver and black power seats out of that same Jeep black carpet it has a sunroof now fenders trimmed front and rear sitting on 285 65 18s

[@KrysOfAllTrades]

got my first one and i love her. 02 laredo with the enviable I6 engine (depending who you ask haha), currently has 220K, i got her earlier this year for like $650 to play with and upgrade, already had some work done when i got her.

[@brownparsley8140]

Just found this vid searching for a code. Have a '99 4.7 with 200k, runs like a top, modified over the years. Never in the shop, done all my own work. When I needed a 2nd vehicle, I thought: have 15 yrs experience with one, I'm gettin' another, because I know the "good, bad, & ugly". Found an '03 4.7HO (power/ shift points vastly different) for a good price, now at 105K. Modded all at once since I've done it before. Never regretted either purchase. Great cars if you put in the time. Thanks for the vid.

[@timlandsberg940]

My Quadra trac2 comes with veraloc on front and rear diffs. I just replaced the clutch packs on them. Haven’t torn into the center diff yet.

[@MrSplupa]

I just acquired an 01 WJ. I’m glad I found this video. All very good info. Great review

[@darrellwilliams4520]

I love you man, cause you embody and embrace the WJ(which I like to refer to as the DubJay or Dub-J) like no one I've ever seen! I truly appreciate your love for our vehicle, because I know I can get real help from you and your boy! Thank you again for your channel bro, keep going, cause we'll keep watching! '01 Laredo 2WD jeep is what I drive, 4.0L. 2WD jeeps are popular in big cities like L. A., New York, etc. where people are expected to DRIVE the jeep and not just go off road with it.

[@DEInTheGarage]

I can dig that. Atleast it is a Jeep, right! Thanks for your feedback on the vis. I am glad to know some folks out there are enjoying what we do

[@jackkatogh]

On the 4.0L check the engine head for cracks, they tend to crack between the 3 and 4 exhaust valves. There is a stronger aftermarket head available.

[@christopherjohn8521]

I had the 89 XJ for 8 years and never maintained it very well. When I got a used 02 WJ Overland, I decided to service it well by fixing any potential issue before it got bad. Like new rad, all hoses, belts, fuel pump, transfer case fluid, Transmition care, Alternator check and repair and changing the oil often. Now I'm a happier Jeep owner. At least I know what I've got and short list of things to have looked at in the future. She's still a nice ride to this day.

[@vincearmstrong5654]

I'm in my first Jeep, an '04 WJ, Freedom edition. Pretty much stock. I don't intend to modify a lot. 2" Bilstein lift, front bumper/winch set up. Picked it up from a friend for $500. Took care of a timing cover gasket and water pump (since it was off anyway), and I'm LOVIN IT! You interested me with the 'gas tank truck's. Gonna a definitely look at that. I worry for that tank! Lotta rocks in our beautiful Blue Ridge mountains. Lol

[@dbstewart7521]

04 Freedom w 4.o 185k runs like new, replace struts shocks brakes. Runs like a champ

[@toploadtele]

I just scored a 2000 Grand Laredo 4.0 2-WD with only 70k one-owner miles. It's tight and loaded with leather and all the buttons. Looks great and rides & drives like new. I'm a happy camper!

[@kingsoutdoors4379]

Just bought the limited in liberty blue with the white gauges , leather, woodgrain, tow package 4.7 etc. We Love it!!

[@darinrodriguez8551]

I've got a 2001 WJ 4.0 and just installed flowmaster 40 sounds awesome n runs way better no cat . I spend alot of time on keeping it tip top and really love driving it.

[@fathdboy2000]

I have a 04 wj limited...clean, rust free, I did diffs, transfer case fluid change, antifreeze flush, and trans fluid service next... I also plan 4.7 lifter change in near future... HAVE 150K miles on her... HOPE to keep till I die....

[@axelgonzalez7910]

I’ve got an 04 6 cyl. 4.0 that was given to Me as my first car when I was 18. 6 years later going strong. 165,000 miles and I plan to go as long as I can. This really helped give the low down. I’m also in Jersey and I think the rust is one of the worst things. But you know what. This thing can be put through anything it always manages to surprise the hell out of me. I’ve taken it to the Catskills 4 times this summer and it beasts up the steep rocky mountain road no problem. Love this thing.

[@654Crossman]

I got a 4.0 in a ZJ. It has 283,000 miles and the oil looks brand new, every oil change. If you keep it maintained, it can last longer than some diesels.

[@kelvinstrickland7442]

I have a 2002 jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4×4 with 130000 miles 4.0 L6 with a 4 inch lift and 33 inch tires × 12.5 wide on R17 rims and I love this jeep and I can get pretty anywhere I want to go because it was done correctly like I bought the new driveshaft and track bar and if 1 things needs fixing I dont wait and if something is going to needed soon I just gdo it right away and I don't worry while off roading. Take Care Of Your WJ and it won't let you down. Respect From Niagara Falls Ontario Canada.

[@charlesmurphy1840]

I’ve had my 99 4.7 since 08 .did they k and n cold air with the tornado ..they have balls ..mine is quadro drive ..I e always loved it

[@darkoverlord56]

I just picked up a 2000 Laredo today for $1250. It has its issues, but it starts up and gets down the road. The driver’s seat wobbles, AC is out, driver’s side window is held in with a screwdriver, it definitely leaks PS fluid, and may leak brake fluid (found a bottle in the back). The hood and lift gate supports need to be replaced, and it needs a tune up. The radiator may be leaking, because there’s plain water in it. But it does run, it came with a title, and it’s the quadratrac II/4.7 combo. It will make a fantastic project.

[@lorettakelley2146]

A couple months ago I bought a 2004 Grand Cherokee Limited with the 4.7 & love it!!

[@outdoorsmansgarage]

My favorite Cherokee body style is 1980-1989 I had an 84 I rolled it for Wheeling in Utah the roof was kind of caved in but I still drove it home

[@martymcfly3825]

I bought my wj as something to drive in bad weather and on the beach during fishing trips. After owning it for a few weeks i fell in love with it and sold my primary "Tacoma prerunner" . I know its older but I would rather have this ride, than buy one of the new ones!

[@davidvoinier6008]

The WJ was the last of the truly great grands if you're looking for reliability off-road. The newer ones are just road cars with 4wd.

[@MrBeboopman]

The amount of knowledge and understanding of the systems available on these jeeps is very impressive.... subbed. Hello from Tipperary.😊

[@comovairapaz]

Love my WJ for very similar reasons. Salvage yards always have 8-10 of them in my area and it’s easy to work on. It’s a 2002 Overland with zero rust as it came from Las Vegas. I added a 4.5 inch long arm lift kit from Rough Country and it’s great off road. Keep the info coming on your WJ upgrades.

[@leonardodavinci3164]

I have a 2004 jeep wj 4.7L v8 limited Quadra drive, 200000+ miles on it has 2 1/2 leveling kit, dynomax muffler, cai and it runs like its brand new as long as you take care of it.

[@leonardodavinci3164]

Really good off road

[@ManifestNMotivate369]

I have a 02 wj 4.7l limited as well and thank you for this video. Got to point and now I know what to watch out for. Much appreciated 🙏

[@robertgolden1080]

I just picked up a 1999 WJ Limited 4.7L quadr track II. Going to do a 3’’ lift with 31’s

[@ianmccaul721]

I'm on my second WJ/WG in Australia, first was a 2002 4.7 Limited and i would still have it if the temp gauge worked. Put a rock into the radiator and cooked it. My current one is a 2004 Blue Overland 4.7 HO, apart from a couple of oil leaks and some transmission problems 45RFE, I love the beast. I had to replace the shift solenoids, the input and output speed sensors and just last weekend the governor valve line pressure sensor. That ATF 4 oil is expensive! I have changed the air filter to a K&N and i fitted ford sierra 12 hole fuel injectors, wow did that make it toey off the line.

[@gatesj777]

I know this doesn’t agree with the purists but I think the 4.7 configuration is superior in almost every way. Kiss the 42re problems goodbye, the 545rfe behind your 4.7 is damn near bulletproof. You have either the 247 or the 242HD with the 4.7, both rated for more torque and built heavier than the 242 they put behind the 4.0. And you have the Dana 44 with 3.73’s. Only downside is, well, the 4.7 itself. But in most cases if it’s treated with care it’s fine and so much more power. Only one of the 4 WJ’s I’ve had had the 4.0 and I hated it. Maybe it was the 3.55’s but it was gutless and the mileage was not much better than my 4.7’s have gotten. Agree 100% with you though, these are the last of the good (solid axle) jeeps and in many ways the best of them.

[@DEInTheGarage]

I think the reason the 4.0 has so many fan girls (myself included) is how long is was around and the fact that is came in some icon very popular vehicle. I have been working on them since I was a teenager and know everything there is to know about them because they were in all the cherokees, wranglers, and grand cherokees me and my buddies had. If the 4.7 was the standard option for all the 90's jeeps then it would be on the pedestal instead

[@gatesj777]

No doubt, no hate for the 4.0 and I understand why people like it, I just think the WJ wasn’t the best application for it... point is, all the other drivetrain stuff that comes with the 4.7 is better even if the 4.7 isn’t as stout.

[@philipjooste9075]

@@gatesj777 Absolutely agree! I bought my 1st WJ with a 4.0 because I loved it so in both the TJ and XJ which I owned before that, but it turned out to be a POS - sluggish, horrible transmission and the fuel consumption was horrendous. I replaced it with a later model WJ 4.7 and still maintain it is the best vehicle I've ever owned.

[@CHMernerner]

YES. Engines are more easy to work on than automatic Transmissons. you got 545rfe and somewhat Decent V8 SOHC. That is Good deal.

[@geostanley409]

The only major issue I have had with my 4.7L (99 Limited) is the valve seat dropped on the left side cylinder head. (Cylinder 5) It spit the rocker arm out along with the lifter, I replaced both lifter, and rocker arm cheap only to find out that there was a deeper issue. Upon starting the engine after replacing the rocker arm and lifter, it spit it back out. I pulled the valve cover replaced the rocker and lifter again, then pulled the ASD relay and spun the engine over. There was a very loud tapping every other rotation and you could visually see the number 5 cylinder intake rocker jerk instead of make a smooth “see saw” motion. This tapping was the valve contacting the piston because the valve seat dropped out of the aluminum cylinder head holding the valve 1/4”-3/8” down thus causing interference with the piston. It finally knocked itself back into place, however after pulling compression on the #5 cylinder, I found it has only around 70-75 pounds of compression. So either it broke the seat, or knocked a hole in the piston. A set of heads that have been rebuilt and supposedly have been modified to prevent future seat problems runs between $700-$800, and it’s a major undertaking to do the work in the vehicle. So the V8 4.7L has a HUGE downside in my opinion. Love the power and performance, but I gotta say I’m not to enthusiastic about having to fix this one.

[@kurtbeeman3126]

Nice video. I’ve had a 01 Laredo wj and it was absolutely indestructible!! Now I have a 03 overland with the 4.7 HO in inferno red 🥰 love these jeeps I’ve had a zj trail pig and messed around with some xj’s but never owned one myself. My dream Jeep is probably a dark orange YJ Sarah edition. Even tho I don’t like spring all that much the looks of those yj’s with minor cosmetic mods and 35s gets me going good haha

[@Reaper3179114]

I knew everything you mentioned already, but I agreed with literally every single word you said about it both good and bad. I've been adding small stuff from the part yard off Laredos to my 04 inferno 4.7L Limited. In the process of throwing on a 242HD next. Keep up the awesome WJ content, awesome vid, can't wait for the next one!

[@DEInTheGarage]

Thanks buddy!

[@shredddead5603]

Just got an 04 Columbia edition and it’s awesome. 4.7l HO with 265hp. 30 more hp than your typical 4.7. Awesome Columbia seats. 4x4. Can’t remember if it’s quadratrac 2 or Quadradrive. Got it for 2800 and it’s only got 117k miles

[@alainorozco8032]

Thanks for the vid. I just got "lucky" with a 2002 Overland for $500, and this made me look forward to seeing what I turn it into.

[@Adam-yg9xk]

I inherited my wife's 2wd 03 WJ. I bought a 99WJ with a blown engine for $300 and converted my WJ to 4WD. Everything bolted up like Legos. Now I have a 4WD WJ with the Selec-Trac. I'm currently looking for the adjustable peddles assembly, all the wiring is already in place I just need the parts. I also installed the Jeep Liberty factory roof lights, they look good.

[@gatesj777]

Adam I’d love to know how to do the pedals. Is there a guide somewhere? They show up in the yard occasionally

[@e8a309]

Ive been thinking of buying a WJ and after watching this video im 100 % sure i will ..thanks great video.

[@williambolin177]

Love the video dude, I have 06 wk with the hemi, I love her , updated her and she always gets looks, put a few $$ into stereo🤟

[@30AndHatingIt]

I’m gonna be putting out like a 25-30 minute video that’s basically my love letter to my soon to be departed WJ. Lots of good memories, plus some footage of my new build. I’ll send ya the link when I’m done with it!

[@krallen69]

02 and up received A major refresh. 02’ WJ Overland 141k miles. Love it.

[@charliedee9276]

Picked up my 04 Limited 4.7 for $500 with a not working Quadra Drive, turned out to be the wrong axle shaft in the front axle pass side. New shaft for a QD axle and all is well. I can give you a long list of bad... 4.7 dropped seats in the heads if ever overheated. 4.7 kicked rockers due to crap hyd lash adjusters They like to eat PCM's if all the grounds are not perfect Wiring in the drivers door WILL give you trouble That being said I have put some dough in mine. Rebuilt heads, solid lash adjusters, new complete timing set, all the usual tune up shit. Did some upgrades such as cams from an 08 for a good power kick, runs perfect now and has for the last 7000 miles and I don't baby it. Give it a chance and you will never look back to a 4.0L, the power difference is HUGE! Put a 242HD transfer case from the rare 4.7 Select Trac model in, did the tank tuck by accident after having to cut the well open for a fuel pump replacement, figured that was as good a time as any.. And remember your 4.7 has the 45RFE or 545RFE depending on the year, the only difference being the year and the TCM programming. It is a GREAT trans and another reason to get the 4.7 vs the 4.0 I have $3500 in mine now and it runs perfect. The combo of the 242 case, Vari Lok axles with 32" Goodyear Duratrac's made to fit with IRO 3" springs and a front long arm kit is almost snowmobile like here in Michigan. Like you said it is very comfortable, makes great power reliably with a couple mods and has plenty of room inside. This winter it gets the 4:56 gears and maybe a lunchbox for the rear, the Vari Lok diff is getting pretty noisy and seems to be crapping out. But with 156,800 miles on it that is to be expected I guess, the PO had NO idea what maintenance was.

[@kilswitch4336]

Love the WJ for all the reasons you gave, got 1 more to add to the list as of this last Sunday... Rolled my WJ in bad road conditions by being ignorant by driving in 2wd. I'm 6'7" and the WJ did its job and I was able to climb out with no more than a few bumps and bruises. The rollover was my fault, not the Jeeps and i now know first hand how safe these things will keep its passengers and love them even more. Currently looking for another one💪

[@kilswitch4336]

Forgot to mention I'm now driving my ZJ daily until I find another WJ cause that's what jeepers do lol

[@DEInTheGarage]

Damn... glad you were ok! Sounds like the Jeep saved you

[@gatesj777]

Go south out of the rust belt for one if you’re not already. Biggest thing is look for rust especially the rear lower control arm mounts on the body. Everything mechanical or electrical is fixable. Major frame/body rust is difficult to impossible to fix.

[@The219Beast]

I got you beat broseph. I just bought a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee limited with 68k miles for $2500 garage kept and never driven in the winter IN WISCONSIN!!!! It still has the tags and stickers on it from the factory!

[@IljaItkonen]

Very nice video, I really like your style making these clips of WJ’s 👍 Year ago I made a mistake of test driving a -03 Limited with 2.7CRD engine. I just had to buy it, one of most comfortable vehicle I have ever driven ❤️

[@klatuuneo]

Thanks for sharing your experiences and knowledge about WJ's. Very informative and fun video. Expecially at the end - the joke with funeral and jeep 😂 I also have 2001 WJ Limited 4.7 V8 with Quadra-Drive system. 178k miles on it. I'm starting to have a little problems with transmission, but I hope that an oil change will fix it, as the diagnostic showed no errors. Other than that, it's very solid and pretty reliable vehicle. Not difficult, nor expensive to fix. Totally agree with your opinion on dream cars.

[@Floki_mk]

I must say my friend , you put up a solid video and as a jeep guy that has owned many jeeps new and old , i will say this WJ i picked up not long ago is killing it she has the 4.7 she just needed a bit of love of she is killing it im super impressed with the 4.7 so far .

[@brbadventurer]

18:22 I am just learning about Jeeps and have been tracking them on our local buy and sell, I had my eye on a 2004 Cherokee Overlander with 180,000 miles for $2500 CDN I should have picked it up.

[@DEInTheGarage]

Yea man. They are super nice and that sounds pretty cheap

[@jaycarl1562]

Interested in purchasing this GC, what do you think ?kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZrUqGSEar2KqKs

[@JUANEstrada-vw8it]

You nailed it on the head I have owned 5 xjs and just got handed down a jeep wj 4.0 2wd, and yes I am converting it 4wd !! Its like a Cadillac compared to the xj!! And so I will be a wj family now !! I have fallen in love

[@DEInTheGarage]

Right?? All the love in the world for the XJ, but the WJ just makes most things better

[@sebastianwolfgram]

I’m 16 and I have a White 1999 Jeep Cherokee Sport XJ and I’ve been watching your videos for knowledge and I love it. Keep it up!

[@DEInTheGarage]

Hell yea! Will do buddy. Glad to hear there are young guns out there getting into greasy old Jeeps!

[@LivingOnCash]

I've had 5 XJ's, 5 ZJ's, 2 WJ's and then a nice WK Hemi Overland. I sold the WK a couple years ago because I found that the lower roof line and huge A pillars made outward visibility limited. I did a 2" lift on it but never felt as comfortable in it as I did with the WJ's. I have a bunch of vehicles but for the last couple years have periodically looked at WJ's for sale and finally on Sunday said, F it, I'm buying one! Got an '03 Limited with 4.7, QuadraTrac II. As soon as I drove it I just felt "right" in it. It was a quick impulse buy though. My preference would be like you, a low miles Overland with QuadraDrive but they are hard to find. I'll probably keep looking for one and if I find one then I'll sell this Limited.

[@jasonweikert1922]

I had a WJ 2000 Limited. I miss it, but it had a lot of issues. I would not move when it was cold. I would not steer right when it was cold. It had weird electrical problems. For example. I did not dare use the cruse control. I would set it and it would not work until it decided too and when it did it would accelerate out of nowhere. Some days none of the electronics in the interior or lights would work.

[@4_Low_Off_Road]

I have a 2wd base model WJ. I’ve been looking for a limited 04 with selc trac, the 4.0, and fully loaded.

[@javim9621]

I had an 04 wj with the 4.0 in black it was the Laredo but it did have the sunroof the problem i had with that one was that non of my windows would roll down only my sunroof worked till i managed to fix at least my driver side window but boy i miss that thing

[@javim9621]

Dream wj is a white limit or overland with the 4.7 h.o it does have to have that white speed cluster tho wich i balieve only came in the over land

[@michaelgieseler2179]

LOVE the review bro. I just got my hands on a 04 WJ 4.7 with only 96K miles already with the Iron Rock lift and tires. GREAT vehicle, comfortable and gets a lot of thumbs up from passing Jeep drivers. I get there binding noise when turning wide so I'll probably replace all of the bushings, axles and other components. Mind you I traded an Audi TTS for this car and I won't be looking back. I have a 2014 GC and its okay but there are so many electronic components that Fiat Chrysler messed up. Old school is the best school

[@NajarOffroad]

I love it😂 “Brand Used”

[@G2offroad]

This is why I delt for the overland edition the stock double cardin d.s is a plus

[@royvinator1945]

@@G2offroad I just bought my first WJ, Is the double cardin on the overland on the front or rear drive shaft?

[@G2offroad]

@@royvinator1945 front its not a for sure on a overland .. or any model at that ... its what ever jeep on the product line at the time of assembly you can get a base 4x4 with one or a overland its pure luck

[@royvinator1945]

@@G2offroad Thank you for your reply.

[@kristiancolson4613]

Some 2001 WJs got the TUPY head. I noticed this the other day at the junkyard.