Hey guys thinking about buying my first xj. was just wondering what i should be looking for when i go and look at one.

 

I'm hardly an expert having bought my first XJ just a few months ago, but I've learned a few things here. From what I understand the late 1990s models are considered to be overall the best. (Just out of dumb luck I wound up with a '99. I found this forum after purchase.) The 2000-2001 4.0 engines have weak cylinder heads and at least the CA models have additional exhaust complexity due to pre-converters in the exhaust manifold. Also the advice I've seen here is to look for an XJ that's stock rather than one that's been butchered up with possibly questionable modifications.

Other than that, the usual caveats when evaluating a used vehicle would apply. The more experienced guys here can provide more details.

 

91-99 4.0 and as virgin as you can find one and no rust.

 

 

RUST on the under carriage and frame must inspect closely, this is about the only problem that can't be fixed if bad.


97-99 model years with the 99 most desirable JMO avoid the 00/01's due to engine and driveline issues.

 

ok sounds good would it be best to look for and automatic or a manual transmission.

 

This decision will pretty much be made for you. Not a ton of manual transmissions out there.

 

Pretty sure the 00'-01s had issues with cylinder heads cracking. The way you drive it'll probably crack regardless of the year so it doesn't matter

 

+1, I bought a 99 4.0 manual. Bought it from a dealer in FL and had it shipped up north. Took my chances as there were no other examples to be found.

Very hard to find Cherokees with 3 pedals. They are out there, but you'll either have to wait and jump quickly, or settle.

 

Both trans the auto and stick are pretty good that would be more up to you which you want.But finding a xj with a stick is a little harder since they made a lot more with autos.

 

Check the uniframe, if its cracked or rusted through walk away right there.... check floorboards even if they look good apply pressure it could be rusting under carpet. check oil see how it shifts and look at door hinges. listen to the engine and see if the lifters are bad.

 

I prefer the 5 speed and i plan on getting the AX-15 put into my zj this year, cant stand the unreliability of automatics in the ZJ and i like the 5 speeds gas mileage miss my ole 5 speed.

 

The AW4 auto is one of the very best trans that jeep ever put in a 4x4 jeep (in these year models) much heavier duty and rated for more GVWR than a std. trans. The clutch is the weak point and what has to be replaced often where on the auto just change fluid is all and most will make a 1/4 of a million miles easy and some twice that no problems.

 

Rust is the absolute first concern. Bring a flashlight and a screwdriver when you go to look at any jeep and get dirty. Crawl under there and start poking around. Unibody rail, floors, and rockers are the places to check.

Next concern for me is the cooling system. I always ask people to not run the vehicle before I come so I can check the condition of the coolant, and also hear the vehicle start from cold. If the coolant isn't a nice alien blood green then it's been neglected, if there is any sign of stop leak I would walk away.

Third would be things the PO has screw up. Chasing somebody else's problems can be the most frustrating thing sometimes.

On top of that check the oil and trans fluid, obviously. Ask about previous maintenance and how the vehicle has been treated, etc, etc. Just about everything else I would consider regular maintenance.

 

Take it for a test drive and listen for weird noises and clunks. Also test the 4 wheel drive to make sure it works and stay locked in.