I am looking for an XJ, around 95-00 with a 4.0L and has to be a 4x4. BUT I dont know what to look for on these vehicle as far as common problems and what to stay away from. There are XJ's that are selling lifted already and seem to be priced right, but was told that it may be a cheap lift? i am thinking I should buy a stock one and do all the work myself to make sure everything is done right. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

As far as what i want the vehicle for is really a winter vehicle and something to take on some trails every now and then. This will most likely be my spare vehicle as I work from home and have another car, and a motorcycle....I basically want a 4x4 toy.

 

I'm sure people will add lots of things to the list but here's a few to start:

Make sure there are floors (mine were completely rusted out)
Pop the cover to the airbox to make sure there's no oil due to blow by
Check all fluids and make sure they are clean
Check for oil leaks around the oil filter adapter housing and the rear main seal
Make sure the doors aren't sagging and hinges aren't separating from the panel
See if the driver's seat is solid because they tend to break
If the hatch struts work, then it's an added bonus
Check the corners of the cargo area for rust
Put it in 4x4 to make sure it works
Move the driveshaft back and forth to make sure u-joints are good

That's all I can think of right now. Hopefully, it was able to help you out a little.

 

97 to 99 after 2000 imo fell off

 

Dont forget to check for a cracked exhaust manifold and rusted out rocker panels.

These are damn reliable vehicles if properly maintained the major problem with them is rust.

Oh and if you want a working rear wiper make sure the little nipple above where the arm bolts to isn't snapped off. PITA to fix if it is broken.

 

Thanks guy, that is alot of help. I wouldnt have even thought about testing the 4wd (as I never have owned one).

I knew about the rsut on the floorboards, and rockers as thats a very common problem. I hope to pickup an XJ within the next month or two, that way it gives me a little time to work on it before It gets too cold.