Overview & Reviews

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.

• Lightweight unibody construction, excellent on and off-road manners, optional V-8, standard ABS, dual airbags, lots of standard equipment

• 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 21 through 30 of 119.00

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  Once a Grand Cherokee Doubter - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By warreaglpam - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Overall, this has been an excellent vehicle. A couple quality problems at purchase, with stereo and front passenger seat. Quickly replaced. This car has been involved in 2 accidents with significant damage. Quality of repairs by Jeep Dealership excellent. Still a blast to drive and looks great. Interior holding up beautifully at almost 150,000 miles. Only mechanical problem experienced happened at around 144,000 miles: fuel pump. We have gotten a great value in this SUV.

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  A deal despite the warnings - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Tony Ford - September 20 - 10:00 am

  I was warned not to buy a used Jeep because of several problems with wiring and such. So far, at 129000 the worst proble I have had was the squeaky fan belt and occasional slip of the transmission when the fluid got low because of a loose cooler line.

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  Happy Camper - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By dotsara - March 10 - 12:50 am

  For 15 years, I rode and drove an 85 Tercel; my Jeep is quite the step up. I wont go bragging about my fuel mileage (its a 2-ton, V6), but I will go on about how comfortable and useful (Ive moved myself and several friends) it is. She runs like a champ, although there have been two major mechanical problems (cracked exhaust manifold, wonky fuel pump). I love the look of my truck as well, its got that boxy, truck feel; its not all sedanish like the later model years. Love it!

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  Jeep grand cherokee limited 5.2 - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By DNorem - March 8 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this Jeep for 3 1/2yrs and had no problems. I have it serviced regularly and change oil religiously. Ive had other Jeeps and definately recommend the 5.2L engine. It seems smoother, has more get up and go and pulls a trailer much better.

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  220,000 miles and still going !!!!! - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Shane - December 8 - 1:13 pm

  I have had my jeep over 10 years no major problems...just minor things...very comfortable...I have 220,000 miles and still going...I want a newer one but I just want to see how long this one will last...highly recommend one...

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  Wife displeased - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By RFBookman - October 13 - 11:53 am

  Bought new in 1996, was initially pleased. Had to have radio replaced under warranty but was fairly problem free until the rear end needed replacing. Mechanic said that gearing was misaligned from the factory and it was only a matter of time until it went out. Had other small intermittent problems. Then the computer unit went out. It took Jeep dealer about 3 months to find the problem. We would take it in and they would give it back saying they could not find any problem. It would have same problem and we would take it in only to start the cycle again. Wife who drives vehicle says we will never buy another Jeep. Plan on replacing it soon with import.

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  97 Gr Cherokee - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Jhosler - August 2 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has been one of the better vehicles I have owned. I do most of the PM on the vehicle, so I know its done right.The main problem Ive found with the vehicle is the exterior paint job from the factory, which easily chips and requires touch-up on a regular basis. Ive never owned a vehicle longer than this Jeep, so I guess it says something for my satisfaction with the product.

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  Decent for the money. - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By kentman - July 28 - 10:00 am

  Reliability has been an issue. Transmission failed at 43K ($2200). Fuel pump failed ($600). Many leaks (trans., axles, oil, etc.). Exhaust header broke ($400). Many check engine lights for sensors (four for pressure sensor and one for oxygen sensor). At 165K miles, it is still driving strong and looks good. I am shooting for 250K miles. If you can stomach repairs, it is a decent vehicle for the money. Build quality is good, and styling is the best. At 165K, it still looks and runs as well as it did when I got it at 34K for $19.5K. If it runs to 250K without any further large component failures, I will buy another one.

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  SoFarSoGood - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By scwad - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Leased very inexpensively for 36 months. Had 23k when acquired. Getting ready to buy a Mountaineer or turn in. Have had no problems, but hear about all the expensive tranny and brake problems.

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  Pleasantly Surprised - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Jackson Lawless - March 26 - 4:20 pm

  I have owned this vehicle for 40k miles (currently has 91k). It has needed some small repairs (Idle Control Sensor $127 w/labor, Trasmission Gasket $223 w/ labor), but I drive this vehicle in some very rough conditions.