1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.05/5 Average
119 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Last year's integrated child safety seat has mysteriously disappeared from press kit and dealer order sheet radar. Other big news is the availability of the optional 5.2-liter V8 engine in 2WD models, and a six-cylinder that qualifies the JGC as a transitional low emission vehicle (TLEV) in California. Refinements have been made to the ABS system, entry-level cassette stereo and floor carpet fit. In January, a sporty TSi model debuted with monotone paint, special aluminum wheels and other goodies.

Pros:
  • Lightweight unibody construction, excellent on and off-road manners, optional V-8, standard ABS, dual airbags, lots of standard equipment
Cons:
  • Spare tire hogs cargo area, engines hog gas, not as roomy inside as some competitors, price climbs rapidly as options are added

User Reviews:

Showing 31 through 40 of 119.00
  • Love the Orvis - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    Very fun to drive. I like the exterior look of it. The Orvis has a excellent green paint job. Seats are very comfortable. Had to replace the CD player and battery is on its last year. Orvis is not a common car on the street. Drives decent on snowy roads. Some times it slips up in slush due to power and gear ratio. Not good gas mileage. A significant amount of rattles in the rear. 95000 miles and still running strong. All around good vehicle.

  • Dependable & Fun - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    Ive owned this vehicle for over 5 years and have had no major problems. This is my primary work vehicle and I spend a lot of time working on the road. I also use it to pull an oversized boat and to go into the field hunting and fishing. It goes and comes back where others cant. 4x4 is easy to operate and totally dependable. The only weak points have been the electronic accessories: heated mirrors, photochromic rearview mirror and rear windshield wiper. Fuel mileage is very good considering its an SUV. I average 22 MPG highway and 16 MPG around town (according to the DIC). 6 cylinder layout is such that regular maintenance is easily accomplished by owner.

  • Jeep Cherokee Review - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    I have owned this vehicle for two years and have never experienced any problems. I maintain the vehicle, and have always had excellent service, it is dependable and used for work and farm use.

  • Jeep Cherokee Review - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    I have owned this vehicle for two years and have never experienced any problems. I maintain the vehicle, and have always had excellent service, it is dependable and used for work and farm use.

  • Great Jeep - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    This is the first jeep iv ever owned, and so far its lived up to its hype. bought it at 68,000 and its currently at 70,000. Only problem Ive ever had was the first week when my check engine light came on, but a free O2 sensor from the dealership fixed that. The powerful V8 makes it one of the fastest SUVs on the road, even after over 10 years. Although the interior colors arent my favorite, its unique and never see anything like it. Seats are very comfortable in the front, in the back its a different story, with very little leg room.

  • Capable off-roader with a few Quirks... - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    Its been a joy to drive,and ive fallen in love with it...but these vehicles are plagued with various mechanical issues which would make them better for someone with mechanical expertise.

  • 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    When running the Jeep is fun to drive, 1997 Cherokee gets horrible gas mileage, all fours running all-the-time stupid idea. Right now the Jeep does not run tranny sensors messed up. Look out Jeep is a money pit.

  • Own one and youll understand... - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    I bought this vehicle from a Jeep dealer at 90K miles in 2001,It now has 100K and Ive mostly LOVED it.I have the Q-Trac/V8 Setup and my trans vibes a bit when shifting to 3rd,the rear end is also very NOISY(growls).80% of Grands experience the rear diff bearing problem.Mine was even replaced in 98.That aside,I fixed a $90 IAC and now my Catalyst and Steering Dampener need replaced.Not bad for 100,250 miles. Biggest complaint? Interior Quality.These vehicles arent cheap and dealing with such a spotty interior is rediculous.Was going for a 99 or 00 but they have SEVERE problems,perhaps a 98 5.9 Limited will fit the bill,or ill wait for the 02s to come down.

  • The Grand Cherokee - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    I have had no complaints. So far it is i feel secure when driving.

  • Solid vehicle - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    Bought my Jeep w/ 52K miles. Now has 80K and havent had any problems. Nice SUV which handles like a car, but can tackle off-road obstacles with ease. V8 provides great pickup and towing power. Only downsides are the cheap exterior molding/bumpers, horrible gas mileage, and limited cargo space. Have considered buying larger SUV, but love the size of the Jeep and its capability to go anywhere.

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× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

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