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 111 through 119 of 119.00
  • Jeeps are awesome!!! - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    Jeeps are so awesome, they are they best SUV around in my opinion. Everyone should look into purchasing some sort of Jeep in theyre life to test it out and feel the enjoyment.

  • Nice 2 drive... - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    I purchased this used vehicle just about a year ago ... (lol knock on wood) so far ZERO problems . The ONLY thing I can say negative about this SUV is gas usage, but that is an EXPECTED given with driving a large vehicle. Overall so far, I am very happy with this vehicle and would absolutely recommend it.

  • Worth The Small Headaches... - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    I purchased my 5.2 V8 in late 2001 and have put 10K miles on it since. In that time I have grown to love this vehicle despite its quirks. The most common problem across the board is bad differentials which cause a loud growl or whining noise when bad. Other than that,my only problems have been a bad IAC motor($90)and a steering dampener and Catalyst,probably about $700 total. Not bad for a vehicle that has over 100K on it! Nice interiors,but cheap parts overshadow this,not good for a 35000+ vehicle.These are capable offroad vehicles that will reward you if you take care of them. You MUST keep on a strict maintenance schedule to avoid problems.

  • sell,sell,sell - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    Bought last year @148,000 mi. Its a play vehicle and gets about 5000 mi. A year. Have spent money on it from day one. Staring off just trying to make everything perfect. Then I started getting a rear bear nosie. Replaced all rear end bearings. The Carrier bearing was the only one pitted. That didnt fix the the problem. Right rear axle was pitted changed it. That fixed the bearing noise. Then I got a vibration @1600 rpm and on deceleration. Changed u-joints (a waste of $). From what Ive read sounds like this is a Major problem that is very hard to trouble shoot (even at a dealer. Dont want to spend any more $ on it. Im torn between spending and just selling it. I love to drive it but the vibration.

  • 97 Grand Cherokee - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    This is my third Jeep Grand Cherokee. I have had very positive experiences with all three. This 97 I purchased used from a returning lease. It originally had 22,000. I now have 77000 and have had no major problems. There was one issue with the air conditioning unit last year that was, if you could believe it, still under warranty. Obviously Jeep acknowledged this without a recall and provided a brand new unit with installation at no charge, (If you were under 70,000 miles)

  • Great Jeep- I think Ill have another - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    This vehicle has been a great one! I will deffintely buy another one! I want to sell this one because my needs have changed! Well maybe wants! I plan on buying a camper! after it is paid off I will buy another Jeep!

  • maintenance nightmare - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    Only drive 5,700 miles/year. 43,815 miles when I bought in 1999. Replaced differential, power steering pump, rear hatch supports, water pump, power steering pump, manifold, unplugged drain for a/c. Headliner is falling down, door panels coming off. My ABS light stays on and computer shows it to be "ABS pump motor circuit" Normal maintenance items replaced were battery and serpentine belt. Is it me, or is this a high maintenance vehicle? 77,850 miles now.

  • $$$ - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    Like to drive it but it has had its problems over the years. Had to replace rear axle differential, and A/C unit. Now it is 6 years old, the ABS system, heated seats, and other misc. items do not work. The factory speaker system is also starting to fail. Would not buy a Jeep again.

  • Jeep Grand Cherokee - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
    By -

    Overall a great SUV! This is my second Grand Cherokee, and I have had very few major repairs. I did have to have the tranny overhauled, but that was close to 100,000 miles. The 4x4 is great (I think my 95 was a little better), but for our tough winters it is a must!

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