I have an 04 WJ Special Edition, have a 4.0 with 452.000 miles, and finally doing my first major repair, catalic converter . Few minor things, such as the hood and liftgate struts, and the drivers door wiring issues, repaired the broken wires, all good. Engine and transmission are all original .
I have a 4.0 straight 6. It's a 98 limited. Love the truck. 310.000 miles oils changed religiously every 3000 miles. Kids keep telling me to get a new car. I snicker and say when they start making them like this again I will.. everyday commute about 60 miles round trip and a get around car for me. Cant seem to let it go..
I got the v8 04, I love it! Sounds great goes just about anywhere (stock) but as a young gun my only issue is the damn gas! V8 is a hog n a half for in town drives.
@@rays5346 Actually it now has 301k miles on it. Just doing all of the regular maintenance such as oil changes, coolant and transmission flushes, changing air filters and spark plugs, keeping the front end aligned. Not really a secret, but I just don't want to buy another vehicle. There is a video on UA-cam asking the question, "Was this the best SUV ever built?". It a video of a Jeep just like mine, a 2004 Grand Cherokee with the bullet proof 4.0 engine and the Selec-Trac transmission.
2004 4.0 281,000 miles. I had a broken seat frame and bad lift gate pistons. Junk yard fix. Also, I use a cut key every day with no issues. Best car I've ever owned hands down.
Another quick story. Was pulling my trailer from the middle of a mud pit after being loaded with PA gear, maybe 3000lbs. This was a 2005 with 4.7. 2wheel drive. Once I started to try to carefully pull out, I realized this was a very bad situation. Two guys bouncing on the bumper/hitch/trailer tongue area and it crawled its way out of there. If you had witnessed it you would have said it was incredible, just like all of those you tube vids. I once have to go around a gate through a massive ditch, at an angle of course, where the whole truck fit in the ditch. I committed to the maneuver, powered up the other side at 45 degree angle, left front wheel went for the sky, then front end landed, and I was through. I knew it would be a risk, but the Jeep repeatedly got me out of otherwise stuck situations, all with just 2 wheel drive. Awesome
My 99 4.7 has 239k and runs strong. Minimal maintenance. After dealing with every sensor, alt, starter, wireing harness around the doors, still gets me around. Many many front end parts too. It does fly still
I just did all that plus more and it still wants to stall out at lights.. idk how many times I replaced the iac thinking I'm getting a faulty one. I even have a new throttle body. Next or last to think of would be the pcm.
I have 01 w/ the 4.7 and 210k miles and have none of those issues! lol . Except for the lift supports wich was a 30 buck fix for all 3 sets. I love my wj best vehicle I've owned.
SAME HERE.... I HAVE A 2004 GRAND CHEROKEE ( SPECIAL EDITION ) 4.7 247NV ,,,DANA 35 FRONT AXLE,,,,,DANA 44 LSD REAR AXLE....236,614.2 I VE HAD MINE 3 YEARS NOW AND LOVE IT....MY LIL TANK....
Great video and very accurate. Mine's a 1999 WJ 4.7 with 240,000. Well maintained. I counted along as you named off the problems and ended up with my Jeep having had 9 of the 16 or so you mentioned.I fix the problems as the come along and still enjoy the ride. Have also replaced the steering gear (wobble), rear tail-lights ( corroded connectors ), radiator, rear differential re-built (whine), and PCM.
I have an 04 wj 4.7. She been my daily driver for 14 years. There is 194k on it. I recently replaced the ac compressor and condensor. Its hot in GA. I have been through two water pumps. The aftermarket ones only last two or three years. Also replaced the radiator. I am doing the valve cover gaskets next and pct valve. All of these issues were done on weekends while still daily driving the jeep. Its been the most reliable vehicle I ever owned. Mine is the laredo so the blend doors dont usually break. Engine and transmission still very strong at 194k. I been running non synthetic 5w-30 and k&n oil filters every 4k miles since it had 33k on the clock.
I am 40 years old. the first car I bought at 19 was a chevy Corsica, which I crashed. The next purchase was a 1997 Cherokee 4.0 Drove that to 190000. Turned that into a wheeler and bought a 2000 grand 4.7. I drove that until last fall, she was just falling apart. Gave that to my brother to turn into a wheeler. I test drove a couple of 2010's and hated them. Bought a really clean 2003 overland 4.7 HO and love it. So the jist of the story, 20 years, 2 jeeps.I expect the overland to last another 6 years and only paid 4k for it. definatly built to last
As a proud owner of a ‘01 WJ Grand Cherokee Limited 4.7 that’s Champagne in color with over 201k miles, I can attest to a slew of issues, such as: -funky engine noises (whining, rattling, knocking) -burning Oi͏l as a result of possible bad valve seals or guides -leaking coolant -a/c blower motor resistor that overheated and melted, air doesn’t blow anymore -passenger seat forward/backward drive doesn’t function -exhaust whistle likely due to aftermarket thrush muffler And most importantly, -Death wobble
A lot of it boils down to how the vehicle is taken care of. Many just ignore tiny problems, which turn into big problems, which turn into a money pit, and then turns into blaming the vehicle for the owner's lack of brains. Some, yes is the vehicle, they make millions of parts, they don't inspect them all, so you of course will have a few failures here and there, and of course that's all you hear about on forums...people don't jump on the forum when their car is running great because they're out enjoying it...they get on the forum to whine because its broke because they haven't had it serviced in 3 years and now it has a blown engine or transmission type of deal.
Yeah mine is an 04 with 170k and it's completely spotless inside and out, the only issue is I had to splice the broken wires in the door jams, i REALLY hope none of this happens, u got me scared bro lol
Hey Cherokee, I've got a 2000 WJ Laredo 4.0 straight six! She's perfect dude! I swear, I have zero problems with my WJ! She's got 168,000 on her, I maintain her. like a clock! Once I had. A " Check Engine" light come on... Turned out to be an 02 Sensor! Replaced it, good to go! Man I wouldn't trade her for one of those new Fiat's masquerading as a Jeep! Chrysler has gone to hell! Their late model Jeeps are Money pits, last around 60-70 thousand miles before they start given you all kinds of problems! Good luck on your WJ.. I'm looking to get me a Limited 4.7 V8, your right about the 3,000 mile Oil Changes! I've got friends that have them... Run like a champ!
I had the exact same thing. Bought my 2000 gcl 4.0 at 168,000. Be pre prepared to get a new position crank sensor, more o2 sensors, bank 1,2, Fan relay sensor, coolant sensor, radiator, fan... I just turned 200k.
I paid 500 for mine with damn near no rust love the damn thing gave it to my brother for his first car once he has the money I’m taken it back and rebuilding the whole jeep
LOL "The 4.7 is a reliable engine except when the rocker arms fly off and the manifolds crack"... just kidding. 4.7 just needs a little more TLC than the 4.0 and it will do great. Cool new intro by the way thanks for the video
Great video. You forgot to mention both taillights quit working. Very common issue in them. The circuit boards go bad and whole Light assembly needs replacing otherwise you have no brake lights. Also, the ghosting idle going up and down by itself. Mine has no codes. I have replaced 3 sensors and still starts up at 1500 rpm then goes up and down when driving it intermittently. Checked all vacuum hoses. Many complain on the jeep forum for that issue. No ones been able to solve it. The blend doors are horrible in these. Wait til the foam starts drying up on them and spraying into your eyes through the vents. Happened to me and now they quit working. No ac on 1 side. Just helping out any potential buyers. Mine has 224,000 and you can’t kill the 4.0. Replaced my tranny at 170,000 though. It quit shifting and I babied it. I had almost every issue you had. 3 window regulators went bad plastic broke around shifter.my airbag lights on had clock spring replaced. Didn’t fix it. Mechanic thinks it’s the passenger side airbag? Replaced everything in my engine. Water pump radiator hoses ect but can’t kill these 4.0
All 15 year old + vehicles have lift gate / hood struts go bad...and window regulators.....my clock spring did go out but my horn / AC / heater still works...my armrest center console latches fine but I do have that crack but mine is barely detectable. My seat did finally crack...but not really bad....took apart and had welded up.
Not gonna bring up the fact that if it gets death wobble it's known to be one of the most severe. And repairs often end up being as much as the jeep itself lmao
I’m at 186K miles on the 2001 4.7 Limited. Engine is very strong and reliable. I’ve kept up on maintenance. Hilarious that I’ve had almost every one of these small problems, and then some. Only exception is my blend doors are working, but my seals are blasted out. So, most my heat is blowing outside. 🙁 I’ve had most of the repairs made, but I’m not bothering with the driver heated seat not working. I love this Jeep. BUT I have a shutter in the trans too. 👎🏼
i STILL HAVE a 1995 Jeep GC ....most if any problems are simple ones. I love it and wont get rid of it until it falls apart,if ever does...lol...right now over 200,000 miles. its a 4.0
Only watched about 5 mins of this video....I have a 99 WJ with nearly 400,000k on the clock, I don't see a lot of the problems mentioned. The vehicle you showed obviously has not been looked after and treated badly so of course that "cheap plastic shit' will break. That Jeep is in appalling condition so I believe is not entirely indicative of the WJ Jeep.
Damn... That jeep is rough...ROUGH!! My 04 shocks for hood and liftgate doesn't hold in winter. That's it. 130,000 miles.. I've taken care of it thou... It's mint inside. Heated seats work. Everything works. 04 Overland
If your heat is only coming out of one side, yes its a blend door issue thats usually pretty easy to fix just go thru the glove box... Never heard anyone say it was tied to the clock spring... And my air bag sensor light in dash did come on, but was remedied when I had taken it in to get the recall taken care of... And as far as window regulators go, they will only last you so long, then eventually have to be replaced just like any other vehicle. As far as wiring goes, I've never had any issues at all. My first jeep was a 2002 jeep grand cherokee Laredo 4.7L V8 4x4 that held up and actually worked great for 10 years til i sold it to my brother. I replaced it with another 2002 jeep grand Cherokee but the overland edition with the 4.7L V8 H.O. 4x4, and have had it almost 3 years now and love it. Its definitely louder than my first one with the custom modified exhaust system, and love all the upgrades that my laredo did not have... But overall super solid rigs all the way around. Your definitely right though with the older the vehicle gets, changing the oil every 3000 miles has been best, and well just maintaining it as best you can is really all you can do to extend the life of your jeep, or any vehicle really that you have. One issue that both my jeeps had though that is really a bitch to deal with, is the jeep death wobble... That shit sucks. But anyway like I said, had this second jeep for almost 3 years now, and since buying it, I've had to replace the alternator, starter, the belt, tires, thermostat, water pump, fan clutch, lift supports all the way around, 1 window regulator, brake pads, calipers, caliper brackets, guide pins.... Listen I will say each one of those events was a bit of a heachache and a pain in the ass, but they were necessary fixes that in the end I can say that my jeep at this moment, with something like 218k miles on it, still runs like a dream, a badass on multiple terrains, and can handle any type of weather condition. With continued proper maintenance on it, I'm sure I'll be getting another 80k out of it, AT LEAST
@@reeferjames1432 mine pulls to the right if im not paying attention, i had to repair the ground on the boot in the door, the seat isnt on the track anymore, the taillight keeps burning out the window regulator has to click 6 or 7 times before it SLOWLY lowers my window and sometimes needs help bringing it back up again, the plug for the blower motor melted so it doesnt work anymore.....what else...oh it downshifts VERY suddenly about 8% of the time... not all the time but just often enough for it to really startle you and it makes a grinding whirring noise every time i shift into drive or reverse..... but it does pull my boat so
@@havnt3782 D%mn! Sorry to hear it. Mine is in great shape. I have a evap leak to find and just the alignment as I mentioned. Minor oil leak on valve covers. That's about it.
I bought my very first Jeep (2000 WJ) Last year for 3400. it ran like a TOP and sounded great but NONE of the windows worked, the alignment was way off, The blend doors didn't work, it had NO AC or heat, The lights acted stupid... It had all the gremlins. but it was my first. eventually I ended up have a SKIM issue and god knows what else. I gave it away for free. Yesterday I bought a 99 WJ for 1500 and EVERYTHING WORKS!!!!!!! It even smells like a new car. She is mint... even has a much better 4 inch lift and suspension upgrade and after market lights.. except.......... It has "THE TICK" Luckily I found the rocker that was the culprit and am capable of fixing it. Someone who has been in the Jeep scene for a while told me it be like dat. btw, they both nearly have the same mileage.
I just bought a 99 4.7 lerado with heated leather seats and the moon roof with 130k miles. The thing is still running like a champ despite a few leaks. I love the car but hate the gas mileage.
All Right Hand Drive WJ (WG here in Australia) GC's were built in AUSTRIA by Magna Steyr [builders of Mercedes-Benz 'G' Wagon SUV's and many top European marques] under contract with Jeep. I've owned a 4.7 1999 Limited for over three years [219,000km now]. I'm the third owner and I drive it like I stole it. This thing still goes like a scalded cat! My wife forbids me to sell it. Drives like new. Regular oil changes, no ticks. I took the cork out of it's arse and fitted a 'torpedo' (hot dog) muffler and a 'high end' air filter element to improve it's breathing and everyone that hears it loves the note, especially the local Highway Patrol cops! Idle speed went up 50 RPM and induction noise actually audible. No '10% power and or torque increase' type bullshit, just made it noticably sweeter to drive and hear and it's still legal! I love this Jeep and I love the 4.7. Thank you Chrysler and Daimler-Benz also, for their input as well.
2004 GC 4.7 208k miles. Weird staring issues. Sometimes when i try to start it, the gauges start jumping around. I have to disconnect the battery, then connect it and it starts. I did put on a quick disconnect on my battery. It all started after i washed my key in the washing machine. Plain key . No buttons. Got a locksmith to make me a new key and he programmed it to my jeep. I drained the computer with touching them together, and did stuff that YT video's suggested. Still doing the same thing. Not every time. No running lights , or backup lights for 2 years. Driver front door issues also. Helpppppppppp.
I got a 2004 4.0 inline 6 engine in it with 238,000 miles on it and the transmission just broke. I bought it when it had 164,000 miles. Only expensive thing I've had to fix on it. Rest are minor like the door wires getting ripped, window stopped working, and battery problems. But I love this car, when I don't have to work on it it rides amazing
Yes should've been. But they probably decided to ignore it due to the astronomical amount of financial loss that would've resulted from it. Jeep shortchanged their customer base in that situation.
Tell us about backup lights quitting and the dealer repair being $1,500+ because of the location of the switch that fails. We have two WJ's, and the 2004 has this problem. I will be fixing it with a manual switch.
My 2001 GC still looks & feels new being i had it new. Already has 150k miles in it. Only thing I need to replace are the coils. Throws a misfire in cyl#2. Other than that? I enjoy driving it than my wifes prius lol
I have a 04 wj 201xxx runs great drives great has none of the problems expect a little rocker panel rust and a little smoke after awhile of driving her but in sure it's just the valve seats leaking past I HOPE
my 04 wj 4.7 has 215k and my looks and runs like new... i have not had any of these problems. The only issue I have had is a very small amount of rust on each rocker panel.
I bought my 2002 WJ back in 2009. It's an unusual "Olympic Edition" (badging) which meant a Laredo with a few features that normally only appeared on the Limited, such as the 17 inch wheels and factory tinted windows. Thankfully, no sunroof and no automatic climate control to worry about. Apparently these were made for use at the Salt Lake City Olympics in 2002, and then sold to the public afterwards. Mine has the 4.7 V8 (regular, not the H.O. that the Overland got) and the older, simpler selec-trac transfer case rather than the quadra-trac. I like that because it means for normal use, I can leave it in 2WD (the other transfer cases are permanently in all-wheel-drive). I haven't needed to use the low range 4WD often, but the few times I have it has been quite capable on logging roads/trails, even in snow. It can be challenging to engage low range, if one's not used to doing it or is doing it incorrectly. It has the 'five-speed' automatic transmission - the 545RFE - it shifts through four gears, but it has a different second gear that is used when downshifting. Have never had any trouble with the transmission. It had about 100,000 km (60,000 miles) on it when I got it and has over 200,000 km now. The biggest problem I've had is with brake calipers failing. Last time I had them replaced, I went with completely new (not remanufactured) ones, and I'm hoping that solves it for good. I've replaced two window regulators, not too hard after watching a youtube video. Had a few minor electrical things - blower motor switch, hazard flasher relay. I've replaced the hood struts twice and both sets for the rear hatch - the ones for the glass and the ones for the entire liftback. Also replaced the radiator at some point. The chrome-over-aluminum stock wheels for these are garbage, I managed to find an aluminum-only set from a 2001 and now the things actually hold air! The engine does 'tick' a bit when first started, just like you were describing in the video. It doesn't burn or leak oil, but I do change it every 6,000 km. I use 5W30 regular oil (not synthetic), just like it calls for in the owner's manual. At this point, switching to synthetic would probably cause more issues than it would solve. Another common issue with these is the headlight enclosures - the stock ones haze over and eventually have to be replaced. I ordered a relatively cheap replacement set off Amazon and installed them a couple of years ago - so far, they work great. For a 'modern' vehicle, this one's been fairly easy for the do-it-yourself-er to work on. I'm not a mechanic, so I do farm out anything safety related, like brake work. Oil changes are among the simplest of any car I've ever owned. Like any large, heavy SUV, the thing drinks a lot of gas, and these days I don't drive it much. But when I need to tow something, or move something too big to fit in a trunk, it does the job. It also will get out of my driveway and wherever I need to go, no matter how much snow there is. I expect I'll be driving it as a second vehicle, until it rusts out or something major fails. Not a lot of resale value on these.
Damn...clockspring... door wiring...struts...seat...reading key, however I've got around that by lifting the steering wheel and once it's been running for 30 seconds you can remove it until you accidentally automatically lock doors again...I have a 4.0... however I'm at 270k.
One of my WJ 4.7L had 320k, runs great, and I change the oil every 65K miles, using Castrol 5w30 full synthetic, but change the filter every 3k and top up. The 45RFE is just about now needing rebuild, and I'll probably put in a Promar reman engine, I'll rebuild the 45RFE, and the rear diff will bet new ring/pinion/bearings all, and new spider, plus axle seal/bearings. I expect to run another 200k+ miles in this thing, it is now 21 years old, and I have drug my 16' trailer thousands of miles, up and down Eisenhower Pass, boiled the brake fluids on the way down, blown radiator end caps, hoses, and put on about 6 water pumps. It is a TANK, man. Oh, and many tie rod ends and brakes
WOW, I have the same jeep got it new 2001 I6 213.000 miles. I would have to say my jeep looks almost new inside. The jeep in this video has had a hard life. If you take care of it it will keep going.
Oh and the electrical issues are almost always ground related. Especially tail lights. I’ve spent countless hours sorting out the twilights. Where the actual bulb twists into position needs to be sanded clean for good contact. Even then they could fail at any time. They might never fail, they might fail over and over, and it can be very frustrating. There is an aftermarket LED upgrade that is a little expensive but will end the problem. The top line stereo has wiring issues too. Never sorted that out yet, but these trucks are still highly loved. To wit- my wife’s 4.0 threw a rod last summer. It has been sitting for 9 months. I had just fixed a bunch of little things. I suspect it had deep engine clearance issues when she bought it. Again, change the oil or the the pump will not provide enough oil pressure and eventually something will give, usually a forward cylinder rod bearing. Wife’s got so Loose before failing you could clearly hear the piston slapping the cylinder as the rod was too loose to keep the wrist pin stable. Then after about a few weeks, POW! A rod went. Not through the block though,, happened at low engine speed. It made a hell of a racket though. Point is- we’ve looked at modern Jeeps, we know too much about Chrysler, and I’m getting another 2000-2004 WJ and rebuilding the other engine as a spare. At least we will know what we are getting into. She and I both love the body style of the WJ. Not to mention that even with just 2 wheel drive, it is all but unstoppable.
If the WJ is taken care of and take care of small issues you won't have such big issues like this one. Wow......yes, blend doors are an issue, but 2 diff companies out there that have cheap fixes that are better than factory. The door wires if they aren't covered yes will deteriorate. Junk yard for the ac panel. The drivers seat was not taken care of and looks like you are in a rust area. The limited comes with both the the I6 and v8. The v8 is not as reliable, but more power. I have owned 17 of them currently have 2. My 2004 SE 4x4 quadra track 2 with the 4.7 and factory tow that was never opened up which is rare for the 4.7 and it has 189k miles, my 2001 Limited is a 4x4 quadra drive with the inline 4.0 6 cyl, factory tow and mechanical fan has 168k miles. Both have been great with none of the problems, except my 01 I did have to order a new pcm and had it programmed not to read the skim key as I disconnected the skim modul. Now talking reliability on that 4.7, i owned 2 new ones and both maintained and both had the 4.7 issues. WJs are great and if you know what to buy and look for they are a good bet. Oh, and change the front and rear diff oil as well as transfer case oil at least every 40 to 50k miles!
And a problem is rust through under that vinyl luggage strip on the roof. and the ignition switch key, I had to ground the alarm which acts as if the key is in the door at all times, and makes for low volt drain... but it runs great. But needs another grease job again for the squeaks, parts wearing out. But this ole 93 GC Laredo is still going strong..
First of all great video so accurate. I’ve been confused ever since I got my wj. It’s a 4.0 100% but literally has “limited” emblems on the exterior and all the limited options. Am I going crazy?
I have a 2002 jeep wj limited. I run if with full synthetic oil and no issues. I changed my oil regularly. I offroad it hard and no issues. I think ppl just need to esucate themselves more about this engine. With all my overland gear it's nice to have all that extra power.
Glad I found this video. The only issue I wonder, can any of these problems engine related be covered up for a short period of time to sell a vehicle? Reason I ask is my non 4.7L Grand Cherokee, a 98 ZJ has a knock when its cold that just wouldn't show up over night. It ran and drove great for several months after I bought it, then after it had a full service (oil, filter, lube, etc) it started in with a knock. I thought at first it was a normal lifter rattle that the 4L I6 engines seem to commonly have, but the noise sounds like its from lower in the engine. The noise does go away after the Jeep has warmed up for several minutes. If I jump in it and take off after a few seconds it has the rattle and knocking noise, but if I let it just idle for several minutes then drive away the noise isn't nearly as bad, and like I said the knock goes away after it warms up. Am I overlooking something stupid simple or am I correct in there's a major engine failure on the horizon?
It all depends on how u keep it done 500000 general maintainance parts are dime a dozen n everything works ur right about the door wires but it's little things just takes time n effort much better than any xj n most jeeps I owned.i gt the 4.7 nxt best thing is a landcrusier for 4 to 5 times the price n parts super expensive. So go wj go.all I hv to say is the best jeep by far.thanks keep the vedioes comin.
Ive' had my Grand Cherokee Laredo 2001 since begging.. 145K miles. Done most of my own work on it.. Hasn't been to problematic. But living in Texas, not long ago the radiator cracked and leaked out all fluid(replaced it 8 years ago). Got it home, but it heated up past temp max. Was receiving code P0307 - Missfire on Cylinder 7. Did some troubleshooting and swapped spark coil 1 w #7 and it moved to #1. So replaced Ignition Coil. All good? No more codes and replaced 4 sparks on right side of V8. But now it Idles bad and while driving doesn't sound/ feel right. Almost like a missfire.. It's noticeable right away to me, because I had it for years. At first thought it was a misfire or a piston not firing, But now think It might be fuel related. Will check fuel pressure and replace Fuel Filter(Fuel Pressure Regulator) JGC 2001 has them both in one. No engine codes. It starts and ides for 4-5 min roughly.. t hen eventually goes idle high then low and dies. Using Torque App on Android and OBDII.I think I successfully loaded all GCJ PID codes. Nothing red comes up on real time data. So far; replaced 4 sparks on right side and checked spark. Replaced Ignition coil #7 (solved Code), Cleaned IAC valve, Checked Fuel injector current on 1,3,5,7 (bulb lights). Still need to swap Radiator.(Delivered in 3days) Any suggestions? Tanx
You have to bleed the air out of the cooling system. There's an 8mm hex plug on the thermostat housing. Remove that plug,then add coolant until it comes out of the hole. Start the engine and watch the thermostat housing until all the air bubbles come out. You might have to add coolant as you're watching it. When just coolant comes out and no bubbles put the plug back in. Cooling system is bled and no air pockets stuck in the heads.
I have a 02 grand Cherokee. Was running fine. Killed it. Went to start it back and key won't turn the truck over. I can pull relay and with key forward jump across the relay with a wire and it will start. But key does nothing.
I'm sorry, but I don't know a single person with a WJ that has had all these problems. I have a 2004 GC Limited 4.7 with 122K on it and it's a dream to drive. Mine looks almost new compared to this one. It's obviously had a very hard life with someone that never took care of it.
It's like they took the entire interior from the 300 and put it in the Cherokee. My 300 had all of those issues, my jeep only has the blend door issue.
i got the 2000 Grand Cherokee limited with the 4.0 and my clock spring went bad and it made the horn blow when the steering wheel was turned to far but i put alot of money into this one only paid 300.00 for it ,( new radiator, upper and lower hoses,thermostat ,heater core,control doors for heat cause they were broke, heater hoses,clock spring,rear calipers and pads,replaced all shocks on hood and both sets on liftgate ,new tires,new shocks all the way around. but it has 224,000 miles and runs great and change the oil every 3,000 miles. Great running jeep just wish it was 4WD instead of 2WD .
The wiring near the front door hinges is notorious for clean breaks - most notably the fat Orange wire with a White stripe. This is the wire that controls your windows and the power door locks. Daimler used stiff wiring that over time will eventually split in half like a clean break. I've added a longer solid orange wire using solderless connectors. You will have to remove the doors in order to get to it.
I've had that wire break on both the driver's and front passenger door, and was able to fix it each time without removing even the door panels... it is cramped, but very do-able.
Just slap a mk4 gli recaro set in shampoo the carpets and get factory floor mats . I also have all inner outer tie rods upper lower ball joints ,needs strut bearings and rear axle bushings and a alignment it rides like stock merc. With 1"drop
Granted there are cars that aren’t known for reliability but most of the issues have to do with user error not regularly maintaining ignoring small issues
4.7 is nice. Really anything is decent if you take care of it. I just got an 04 wj 4.7 laredo. With 131k. The wj are def the best jeep for the money. I got leather seats but really like those Limited ones. Might just grab some headrest instead of seat swap.
Good day. I am from Sierra Leone. I have a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ of the same age. It cranked but did not start. The timing was reset and it can now start. But the problem now is, when the engine is running and engages gear R or D it stalls. Can you advice what is the problem?
Hey Sir I love my WJ I bought it new in 2004 I've not yet had any trouble. The power steering pump at 200,000 is starting to go. The heater control is waring holes in the plate. But hey it's got 200,000 it got the 4.7 and yes I service every 3,000 miles. I think it's the most best Jeep 2004 Grand Cherokee larado I didn't get the unlimited. Like you said more stuff b to break down. Hey guys and lady's if you can find one with the 4.7 with 100,000 get it most reliable vehicle yet.
Oh yeah I did forget the wiring in the driver's door, but I had a friend who was a electrician bro, it fixed it 8 year ago and he fixed it in 15min. Spiced it no problem.
I have 330,000 on mine , I have the skim unit issue I’ve jerry rigged a disconnect under the steering wheel which works. But the seats I’ve replaced it’s a hollow pin that holds the seat to the track that breaks and lets the seat wiggle. Everything else is ship shape I dog the piss out of it 24/7 and it’s running beautifully.
my window switch, chirp when I lock the doors, steering wheel radio functions and auto headlight function stopped working at the same time what you think may be the cause
I have a 2004 Grand Cherokee Especial Edition I purchased 4 years ago cheap with a overheated seized engine. I replaced it with a rebuilt engine and I did notice the sticker under the hood that said you must bleed the engine. If you do not you could have some valves drop. I noticed in the MN winter with a worm vehicle if I went in a store long enough for it to get cold inside the heater was cold even if I waited for my girl friend for a half hr. But if I drove it a couple blocks the heater was hot. I drove it most of a winter like that until I saw a UA-cam video TOU HAVE TO remove a plug to the side of the water pump and fill it with a funnel and coolant. Mine took a half gallon after driving it for 6 months. I hope I did not do too much damage to my new engine but it still runs fine but I am sure it would never bleed it self. Some one told me the 4.7 is the only Dodge/jeep/Chrysler engine you have to do that on. So add that to a possible issue if you replaced your own coolant for any reason.
Have issues with key on mine, guy came from out of state, programmed keys for $75 each. I paid $500 for mine, 99 WJ with 6 inch rough country lift and 35 inch BFG's.
Have a 2000 , bought it with 60K one owner miles. Now at 160K. Has always had wiring nightmares, left turn / brake light works for a few days and won't work for weeks, replaced and repaired until just gave up on that, wiring isn't worth spending money on. Now transmission stopped working, code scanner showed P0732 / Pop731, changed filters, the screw in filter fell out when i dropped the pan. Called a friend who is a retired transmission specialist, he would not even rebuild it, said that was one tranny he never would work on because too many problems. I installed new filters, it again caught in gear, i thought it was fixed, now it slips after getting warmed up, won't shift gears but you can manually shift 3 - 2 - drive and reverse but no shifting automatic and the slipping have to rev up engine to pull out but don't seem to slip while driving, letting off the gas in drive, feels like it's slowing to much, more like it's in second? Brakes have had lockup problems, I changed everything, yes everything and a few months later another brake locks. Engine runs like new, it's all the little things that makes me want to shoot it and bury it. Worst vehicle ever. My 2000 GMC 5.3 4x4 has 270K and still runs like a new truck. GMC, now that's how you build a vehicle ! With all the complaining you had with your jeep, how can you end by saying what a great vehicle it is....IF of course you don't mind the electrical, the heat and air, the wiring, the sun roof, the seats the etc, etc. ? Yep, sounds like you've got a great one there too !!!
I got my 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.0L with 230K.. for $700.00 best money I spent. I have none of these problems original motor and transmission only thing I fix was normal.
What issues did you have? My 96 ZJ I had no issues at all and that poor thing was beat on all the time. My 98 ZJ has what I seem to hear is a low end knock but it goes away after it warms up? So I suspect a major engine failure here soon but the knock goes away after it warms up so its quite confusing, I would think anything major like a rod knock, bearing, that type of stuff would be present regardless of temperature wouldn't it? I can't get it to do it just sitting on my carport revving the engine, it only does it when under load in gear when cold...maybe something else not engine related? Transmission has a whine noise in reverse when its cold as well. This Jeep has issues that I wouldn't think it should have given its overall condition.
I have an 04 WJ Special Edition, have a 4.0 with 452.000 miles, and finally doing my first major repair, catalic converter . Few minor things, such as the hood and liftgate struts, and the drivers door wiring issues, repaired the broken wires, all good. Engine and transmission are all original .
What oil did you run?
@@CarveLife Mobil 1 still have it, she now has 482,000 and still runs good
@@Rev1Kev nice. 10w30? Convenient or synthetic?
@@CarveLife Mobil 1 is Synthetic and yes 10w30
@@Rev1Kev duh lol sorry. Thanks for the info brother
I have a 4.0 straight 6. It's a 98 limited. Love the truck. 310.000 miles oils changed religiously every 3000 miles. Kids keep telling me to get a new car. I snicker and say when they start making them like this again I will.. everyday commute about 60 miles round trip and a get around car for me. Cant seem to let it go..
I got the v8 04, I love it! Sounds great goes just about anywhere (stock) but as a young gun my only issue is the damn gas! V8 is a hog n a half for in town drives.
"When they start making them like this again" ain't that the truth... Sadly we're only straying further and further
Dang that Jeep is F’D UP
😂
2004 Rocky Mountain Edition Grand Cherokee, 292k miles and runs like new. Of course, it has been very well cared for.
What's the secret?
@@rays5346 Actually it now has 301k miles on it. Just doing all of the regular maintenance such as oil changes, coolant and transmission flushes, changing air filters and spark plugs, keeping the front end aligned. Not really a secret, but I just don't want to buy another vehicle. There is a video on UA-cam asking the question, "Was this the best SUV ever built?". It a video of a Jeep just like mine, a 2004 Grand Cherokee with the bullet proof 4.0 engine and the Selec-Trac transmission.
2004 4.0 281,000 miles. I had a broken seat frame and bad lift gate pistons. Junk yard fix. Also, I use a cut key every day with no issues. Best car I've ever owned hands down.
Gonna buy one today...mint with 80,000 for $2,500...
Another quick story. Was pulling my trailer from the middle of a mud pit after being loaded with PA gear, maybe 3000lbs. This was a 2005 with 4.7. 2wheel drive. Once I started to try to carefully pull out, I realized this was a very bad situation. Two guys bouncing on the bumper/hitch/trailer tongue area and it crawled its way out of there. If you had witnessed it you would have said it was incredible, just like all of those you tube vids. I once have to go around a gate through a massive ditch, at an angle of course, where the whole truck fit in the ditch. I committed to the maneuver, powered up the other side at 45 degree angle, left front wheel went for the sky, then front end landed, and I was through. I knew it would be a risk, but the Jeep repeatedly got me out of otherwise stuck situations, all with just 2 wheel drive. Awesome
My 99 4.7 has 239k and runs strong. Minimal maintenance. After dealing with every sensor, alt, starter, wireing harness around the doors, still gets me around. Many many front end parts too. It does fly still
I just did all that plus more and it still wants to stall out at lights.. idk how many times I replaced the iac thinking I'm getting a faulty one. I even have a new throttle body. Next or last to think of would be the pcm.
This video could be hours long... 2004 4.0 owner. 202K miles as of this post.
I have 01 w/ the 4.7 and 210k miles and have none of those issues! lol . Except for the lift supports wich was a 30 buck fix for all 3 sets. I love my wj best vehicle I've owned.
SAME HERE.... I HAVE A 2004 GRAND CHEROKEE ( SPECIAL EDITION ) 4.7 247NV ,,,DANA 35 FRONT AXLE,,,,,DANA 44 LSD REAR AXLE....236,614.2 I VE HAD MINE 3 YEARS NOW AND LOVE IT....MY LIL TANK....
This guys jeep clearly wasn't cared for
I had 1 window reg problem on my 03 155K. O2's go quite often. Otherwise, Best vehicle I've ever owned.
Same here. I got an 04 Jeep Grand Cherokee freedom edition. It's solid af but 4wd is a bit messy
Major facts‼️
I have a 01 Wj now (my 2nd Wj) and none these issues never occurred. Take of your Jeep and it’ll take of you. 😏 #inline6baby
I've had my 2000 4.0 for ten years, and this was the short list of problems 🤣
Great video and very accurate. Mine's a 1999 WJ 4.7 with 240,000. Well maintained. I counted along as you named off the problems and ended up with my Jeep having had 9 of the 16 or so you mentioned.I fix the problems as the come along and still enjoy the ride. Have also replaced the steering gear (wobble), rear tail-lights ( corroded connectors ), radiator, rear differential re-built (whine), and PCM.
I have an 04 wj 4.7. She been my daily driver for 14 years. There is 194k on it. I recently replaced the ac compressor and condensor. Its hot in GA. I have been through two water pumps. The aftermarket ones only last two or three years. Also replaced the radiator. I am doing the valve cover gaskets next and pct valve.
All of these issues were done on weekends while still daily driving the jeep. Its been the most reliable vehicle I ever owned.
Mine is the laredo so the blend doors dont usually break.
Engine and transmission still very strong at 194k. I been running non synthetic 5w-30 and k&n oil filters every 4k miles since it had 33k on the clock.
Probably help if you keep that thing clean lol
I am 40 years old. the first car I bought at 19 was a chevy Corsica, which I crashed. The next purchase was a 1997 Cherokee 4.0 Drove that to 190000. Turned that into a wheeler and bought a 2000 grand 4.7. I drove that until last fall, she was just falling apart. Gave that to my brother to turn into a wheeler. I test drove a couple of 2010's and hated them. Bought a really clean 2003 overland 4.7 HO and love it. So the jist of the story, 20 years, 2 jeeps.I expect the overland to last another 6 years and only paid 4k for it. definatly built to last
As a proud owner of a ‘01 WJ Grand Cherokee Limited 4.7 that’s Champagne in color with over 201k miles, I can attest to a slew of issues, such as:
-funky engine noises (whining, rattling, knocking)
-burning Oi͏l as a result of possible bad valve seals or guides
-leaking coolant
-a/c blower motor resistor that overheated and melted, air doesn’t blow anymore
-passenger seat forward/backward drive doesn’t function
-exhaust whistle likely due to aftermarket thrush muffler
And most importantly,
-Death wobble
The steering stabilizer is a must maintain item. If it goes out, these things are dangerous to drive - especially lifted with big tires!
My 2001 limited has most of these problems but it’s super clean and treated well
I have a 01 wj limited, 4.7 I've had a couple of these issues but still love it
my 2000 has none of these problems...am i lucky or do some people need to take better care of thier cars
What is yours 3.1? Or?
Same here. 4.0
Do you still have it Does it still run well?
@@bobbobby2212 yep 4.7 v8
A lot of it boils down to how the vehicle is taken care of. Many just ignore tiny problems, which turn into big problems, which turn into a money pit, and then turns into blaming the vehicle for the owner's lack of brains.
Some, yes is the vehicle, they make millions of parts, they don't inspect them all, so you of course will have a few failures here and there, and of course that's all you hear about on forums...people don't jump on the forum when their car is running great because they're out enjoying it...they get on the forum to whine because its broke because they haven't had it serviced in 3 years and now it has a blown engine or transmission type of deal.
Yeah mine is an 04 with 170k and it's completely spotless inside and out, the only issue is I had to splice the broken wires in the door jams, i REALLY hope none of this happens, u got me scared bro lol
Hey Cherokee, I've got a 2000 WJ Laredo 4.0 straight six! She's perfect dude! I swear, I have zero problems with my WJ! She's got 168,000 on her, I maintain her. like a clock! Once I had. A " Check Engine" light come on... Turned out to be an 02 Sensor! Replaced it, good to go! Man I wouldn't trade her for one of those new Fiat's masquerading as a Jeep! Chrysler has gone to hell! Their late model Jeeps are Money pits, last around 60-70 thousand miles before they start given you all kinds of problems! Good luck on your WJ.. I'm looking to get me a Limited 4.7 V8, your right about the 3,000 mile Oil Changes! I've got friends that have them... Run like a champ!
Yup, same. I have a '99 4.0L with 300,000 and it's been flawless.
I had the exact same thing. Bought my 2000 gcl 4.0 at 168,000. Be pre prepared to get a new position crank sensor, more o2 sensors, bank 1,2, Fan relay sensor, coolant sensor, radiator, fan... I just turned 200k.
He said an old jeep like that aint worth it.... can i freakin have it then your gust neglecting itt .
I paid 500 for mine with damn near no rust love the damn thing gave it to my brother for his first car once he has the money I’m taken it back and rebuilding the whole jeep
LOL "The 4.7 is a reliable engine except when the rocker arms fly off and the manifolds crack"... just kidding. 4.7 just needs a little more TLC than the 4.0 and it will do great. Cool new intro by the way thanks for the video
Both Mine have made it for 185000 and no problem
I got like 280k miles on my engine and so far it's only needed basic upkeep
They drop seats all the time. Don't ever overheat one or it's a gonner.
Great video. You forgot to mention both taillights quit working. Very common issue in them. The circuit boards go bad and whole Light assembly needs replacing otherwise you have no brake lights. Also, the ghosting idle going up and down by itself. Mine has no codes. I have replaced 3 sensors and still starts up at 1500 rpm then goes up and down when driving it intermittently. Checked all vacuum hoses. Many complain on the jeep forum for that issue. No ones been able to solve it. The blend doors are horrible in these. Wait til the foam starts drying up on them and spraying into your eyes through the vents. Happened to me and now they quit working. No ac on 1 side. Just helping out any potential buyers. Mine has 224,000 and you can’t kill the 4.0. Replaced my tranny at 170,000 though. It quit shifting and I babied it.
I had almost every issue you had. 3 window regulators went bad plastic broke around shifter.my airbag lights on had clock spring replaced. Didn’t fix it. Mechanic thinks it’s the passenger side airbag? Replaced everything in my engine. Water pump radiator hoses ect but can’t kill these 4.0
Idle Control Valve for ghosting idle
All 15 year old + vehicles have lift gate / hood struts go bad...and window regulators.....my clock spring did go out but my horn / AC / heater still works...my armrest center console latches fine but I do have that crack but mine is barely detectable. My seat did finally crack...but not really bad....took apart and had welded up.
Not gonna bring up the fact that if it gets death wobble it's known to be one of the most severe. And repairs often end up being as much as the jeep itself lmao
I’m at 186K miles on the 2001 4.7 Limited. Engine is very strong and reliable. I’ve kept up on maintenance. Hilarious that I’ve had almost every one of these small problems, and then some. Only exception is my blend doors are working, but my seals are blasted out. So, most my heat is blowing outside. 🙁 I’ve had most of the repairs made, but I’m not bothering with the driver heated seat not working. I love this Jeep. BUT I have a shutter in the trans too. 👎🏼
i STILL HAVE a 1995 Jeep GC ....most if any problems are simple ones. I love it and wont get rid of it until it falls apart,if ever does...lol...right now over 200,000 miles. its a 4.0
Only watched about 5 mins of this video....I have a 99 WJ with nearly 400,000k on the clock, I don't see a lot of the problems mentioned. The vehicle you showed obviously has not been looked after and treated badly so of course that "cheap plastic shit' will break. That Jeep is in appalling condition so I believe is not entirely indicative of the WJ Jeep.
I would also like to add that you can’t make a video on “WJ Grand Cherokee Common Issues” and neglect to mention death wobble.
Speedskid yep yep! On my first 02 WJ the death wobble was super crazy
Truth!!
Damn... That jeep is rough...ROUGH!! My 04 shocks for hood and liftgate doesn't hold in winter. That's it. 130,000 miles.. I've taken care of it thou... It's mint inside. Heated seats work. Everything works. 04 Overland
If your heat is only coming out of one side, yes its a blend door issue thats usually pretty easy to fix just go thru the glove box... Never heard anyone say it was tied to the clock spring... And my air bag sensor light in dash did come on, but was remedied when I had taken it in to get the recall taken care of... And as far as window regulators go, they will only last you so long, then eventually have to be replaced just like any other vehicle. As far as wiring goes, I've never had any issues at all. My first jeep was a 2002 jeep grand cherokee Laredo 4.7L V8 4x4 that held up and actually worked great for 10 years til i sold it to my brother. I replaced it with another 2002 jeep grand Cherokee but the overland edition with the 4.7L V8 H.O. 4x4, and have had it almost 3 years now and love it. Its definitely louder than my first one with the custom modified exhaust system, and love all the upgrades that my laredo did not have... But overall super solid rigs all the way around. Your definitely right though with the older the vehicle gets, changing the oil every 3000 miles has been best, and well just maintaining it as best you can is really all you can do to extend the life of your jeep, or any vehicle really that you have. One issue that both my jeeps had though that is really a bitch to deal with, is the jeep death wobble... That shit sucks. But anyway like I said, had this second jeep for almost 3 years now, and since buying it, I've had to replace the alternator, starter, the belt, tires, thermostat, water pump, fan clutch, lift supports all the way around, 1 window regulator, brake pads, calipers, caliper brackets, guide pins.... Listen I will say each one of those events was a bit of a heachache and a pain in the ass, but they were necessary fixes that in the end I can say that my jeep at this moment, with something like 218k miles on it, still runs like a dream, a badass on multiple terrains, and can handle any type of weather condition. With continued proper maintenance on it, I'm sure I'll be getting another 80k out of it, AT LEAST
Just bought an 02 with the 4.7 loved the video. Wish me luck! Lol
still good?
@@havnt3782 yeah boy! No death wobble, but need it aligned. A bit of steering play though. Will get it sorted. Lift job went well.
@@reeferjames1432 mine pulls to the right if im not paying attention, i had to repair the ground on the boot in the door, the seat isnt on the track anymore, the taillight keeps burning out the window regulator has to click 6 or 7 times before it SLOWLY lowers my window and sometimes needs help bringing it back up again, the plug for the blower motor melted so it doesnt work anymore.....what else...oh it downshifts VERY suddenly about 8% of the time... not all the time but just often enough for it to really startle you and it makes a grinding whirring noise every time i shift into drive or reverse..... but it does pull my boat so
@@havnt3782 D%mn! Sorry to hear it. Mine is in great shape. I have a evap leak to find and just the alignment as I mentioned. Minor oil leak on valve covers. That's about it.
The key thing happened to me in Highschool. My dad had a grand cherokee & I had a dodge dakota.
I picked up a 04 Limited about 2 months ago. An yesterday I hit 150k. The girl I got it from took care of this thing. I love it
That harness in the door unplugs & makes it easier to work on. Pull the boot from the door & unplug, easy as pie.
I bought my very first Jeep (2000 WJ) Last year for 3400. it ran like a TOP and sounded great but NONE of the windows worked, the alignment was way off, The blend doors didn't work, it had NO AC or heat, The lights acted stupid... It had all the gremlins. but it was my first. eventually I ended up have a SKIM issue and god knows what else. I gave it away for free. Yesterday I bought a 99 WJ for 1500 and EVERYTHING WORKS!!!!!!! It even smells like a new car. She is mint... even has a much better 4 inch lift and suspension upgrade and after market lights.. except.......... It has "THE TICK" Luckily I found the rocker that was the culprit and am capable of fixing it. Someone who has been in the Jeep scene for a while told me it be like dat. btw, they both nearly have the same mileage.
I have a 2004 4.7 with 99k miles!
I just bought a 99 4.7 lerado with heated leather seats and the moon roof with 130k miles. The thing is still running like a champ despite a few leaks. I love the car but hate the gas mileage.
I have a 04 4.0 I have some of the miner problems. And sucks there are no tow hooks any we're on it
All Right Hand Drive WJ (WG here in Australia) GC's were built in AUSTRIA by Magna Steyr [builders of Mercedes-Benz 'G' Wagon SUV's and many top European marques] under contract with Jeep.
I've owned a 4.7 1999 Limited for over three years [219,000km now]. I'm the third owner and I drive it like I stole it. This thing still goes like a scalded cat! My wife forbids me to sell it. Drives like new. Regular oil changes, no ticks. I took the cork out of it's arse and fitted a 'torpedo' (hot dog) muffler and a 'high end' air filter element to improve it's breathing and everyone that hears it loves the note, especially the local Highway Patrol cops! Idle speed went up 50 RPM and induction noise actually audible. No '10% power and or torque increase' type bullshit, just made it noticably sweeter to drive and hear and it's still legal!
I love this Jeep and I love the 4.7. Thank you Chrysler and Daimler-Benz also, for their input as well.
2004 GC 4.7 208k miles. Weird staring issues. Sometimes when i try to start it, the gauges start jumping around. I have to disconnect the battery, then connect it and it starts. I did put on a quick disconnect on my battery. It all started after i washed my key in the washing machine. Plain key . No buttons. Got a locksmith to make me a new key and he programmed it to my jeep. I drained the computer with touching them together, and did stuff that YT video's suggested. Still doing the same thing. Not every time. No running lights , or backup lights for 2 years. Driver front door issues also. Helpppppppppp.
I got a 2004 4.0 inline 6 engine in it with 238,000 miles on it and the transmission just broke. I bought it when it had 164,000 miles. Only expensive thing I've had to fix on it. Rest are minor like the door wires getting ripped, window stopped working, and battery problems. But I love this car, when I don't have to work on it it rides amazing
Damn son that jeep looks like it's been through hell 🙁
It has and I sent it back 😂
Excellent, man!
The sunroof does not leak. The drain holes get clogged. Grab some trimmer line and thread them through.
Biggest problem you left out... The 4.7L V8 drops valve seats like crazy often destroying the engine. Should have been a recall.
Yes should've been. But they probably decided to ignore it due to the astronomical amount of financial loss that would've resulted from it. Jeep shortchanged their customer base in that situation.
Tell us about backup lights quitting and the dealer repair being $1,500+ because of the location of the switch that fails. We have two WJ's, and the 2004 has this problem. I will be fixing it with a manual switch.
My 2001 GC still looks & feels new being i had it new. Already has 150k miles in it. Only thing I need to replace are the coils. Throws a misfire in cyl#2. Other than that? I enjoy driving it than my wifes prius lol
My horn has been messed up but just got it fixed, so tight on that part!!
I have a 04 wj 201xxx runs great drives great has none of the problems expect a little rocker panel rust and a little smoke after awhile of driving her but in sure it's just the valve seats leaking past I HOPE
my 04 wj 4.7 has 215k and my looks and runs like new... i have not had any of these problems. The only issue I have had is a very small amount of rust on each rocker panel.
I bought my 2002 WJ back in 2009. It's an unusual "Olympic Edition" (badging) which meant a Laredo with a few features that normally only appeared on the Limited, such as the 17 inch wheels and factory tinted windows. Thankfully, no sunroof and no automatic climate control to worry about. Apparently these were made for use at the Salt Lake City Olympics in 2002, and then sold to the public afterwards. Mine has the 4.7 V8 (regular, not the H.O. that the Overland got) and the older, simpler selec-trac transfer case rather than the quadra-trac. I like that because it means for normal use, I can leave it in 2WD (the other transfer cases are permanently in all-wheel-drive). I haven't needed to use the low range 4WD often, but the few times I have it has been quite capable on logging roads/trails, even in snow. It can be challenging to engage low range, if one's not used to doing it or is doing it incorrectly. It has the 'five-speed' automatic transmission - the 545RFE - it shifts through four gears, but it has a different second gear that is used when downshifting. Have never had any trouble with the transmission. It had about 100,000 km (60,000 miles) on it when I got it and has over 200,000 km now. The biggest problem I've had is with brake calipers failing. Last time I had them replaced, I went with completely new (not remanufactured) ones, and I'm hoping that solves it for good. I've replaced two window regulators, not too hard after watching a youtube video. Had a few minor electrical things - blower motor switch, hazard flasher relay. I've replaced the hood struts twice and both sets for the rear hatch - the ones for the glass and the ones for the entire liftback. Also replaced the radiator at some point. The chrome-over-aluminum stock wheels for these are garbage, I managed to find an aluminum-only set from a 2001 and now the things actually hold air! The engine does 'tick' a bit when first started, just like you were describing in the video. It doesn't burn or leak oil, but I do change it every 6,000 km. I use 5W30 regular oil (not synthetic), just like it calls for in the owner's manual. At this point, switching to synthetic would probably cause more issues than it would solve. Another common issue with these is the headlight enclosures - the stock ones haze over and eventually have to be replaced. I ordered a relatively cheap replacement set off Amazon and installed them a couple of years ago - so far, they work great. For a 'modern' vehicle, this one's been fairly easy for the do-it-yourself-er to work on. I'm not a mechanic, so I do farm out anything safety related, like brake work. Oil changes are among the simplest of any car I've ever owned. Like any large, heavy SUV, the thing drinks a lot of gas, and these days I don't drive it much. But when I need to tow something, or move something too big to fit in a trunk, it does the job. It also will get out of my driveway and wherever I need to go, no matter how much snow there is. I expect I'll be driving it as a second vehicle, until it rusts out or something major fails. Not a lot of resale value on these.
Thank you for the heads up and advice.
Damn...clockspring... door wiring...struts...seat...reading key, however I've got around that by lifting the steering wheel and once it's been running for 30 seconds you can remove it until you accidentally automatically lock doors again...I have a 4.0... however I'm at 270k.
I'm bought a 01 with 150k on it with a bad motor for 150 bucks.everything else works flawlessly. Hope I didn't do to bad for my first Jeep.
One of my WJ 4.7L had 320k, runs great, and I change the oil every 65K miles, using Castrol 5w30 full synthetic, but change the filter every 3k and top up. The 45RFE is just about now needing rebuild, and I'll probably put in a Promar reman engine, I'll rebuild the 45RFE, and the rear diff will bet new ring/pinion/bearings all, and new spider, plus axle seal/bearings. I expect to run another 200k+ miles in this thing, it is now 21 years old, and I have drug my 16' trailer thousands of miles, up and down Eisenhower Pass, boiled the brake fluids on the way down, blown radiator end caps, hoses, and put on about 6 water pumps. It is a TANK, man. Oh, and many tie rod ends and brakes
2004 wj very good luck and I take mine mudding once in a while nothing better in the snow .with bf goodrich ko2 tires
WOW, I have the same jeep got it new 2001 I6 213.000 miles. I would have to say my jeep looks almost new inside. The jeep in this video has had a hard life. If you take care of it it will keep going.
Oh and the electrical issues are almost always ground related. Especially tail lights. I’ve spent countless hours sorting out the twilights. Where the actual bulb twists into position needs to be sanded clean for good contact. Even then they could fail at any time. They might never fail, they might fail over and over, and it can be very frustrating. There is an aftermarket LED upgrade that is a little expensive but will end the problem. The top line stereo has wiring issues too. Never sorted that out yet, but these trucks are still highly loved. To wit- my wife’s 4.0 threw a rod last summer. It has been sitting for 9 months. I had just fixed a bunch of little things. I suspect it had deep engine clearance issues when she bought it. Again, change the oil or the the pump will not provide enough oil pressure and eventually something will give, usually a forward cylinder rod bearing. Wife’s got so
Loose before failing you could clearly hear the piston slapping the cylinder as the rod was too loose to keep the wrist pin stable. Then after about a few weeks, POW! A rod went. Not through the block though,, happened at low engine speed. It made a hell of a racket though. Point is- we’ve looked at modern Jeeps, we know too much about Chrysler, and I’m getting another 2000-2004 WJ and rebuilding the other engine as a spare. At least we will know what we are getting into. She and I both love the body style of the WJ. Not to mention that even with just 2 wheel drive, it is all but unstoppable.
If the WJ is taken care of and take care of small issues you won't have such big issues like this one. Wow......yes, blend doors are an issue, but 2 diff companies out there that have cheap fixes that are better than factory. The door wires if they aren't covered yes will deteriorate. Junk yard for the ac panel. The drivers seat was not taken care of and looks like you are in a rust area. The limited comes with both the the I6 and v8. The v8 is not as reliable, but more power. I have owned 17 of them currently have 2. My 2004 SE 4x4 quadra track 2 with the 4.7 and factory tow that was never opened up which is rare for the 4.7 and it has 189k miles, my 2001 Limited is a 4x4 quadra drive with the inline 4.0 6 cyl, factory tow and mechanical fan has 168k miles. Both have been great with none of the problems, except my 01 I did have to order a new pcm and had it programmed not to read the skim key as I disconnected the skim modul. Now talking reliability on that 4.7, i owned 2 new ones and both maintained and both had the 4.7 issues. WJs are great and if you know what to buy and look for they are a good bet. Oh, and change the front and rear diff oil as well as transfer case oil at least every 40 to 50k miles!
And a problem is rust through under that vinyl luggage strip on the roof. and the ignition switch key, I had to ground the alarm which acts as if the key is in the door at all times, and makes for low volt drain... but it runs great. But needs another grease job again for the squeaks, parts wearing out. But this ole 93 GC Laredo is still going strong..
Good video, very accurate. I have a few tech videos on my channel based on the WJ and WK models. Hope to see more from you!
I've had a 4.7 in a dodge, it's a pain in the ass. I'll stick to the 4.0!
The 4.7 is a solid engine. Just take care of em! If you do not... It'll bite you!
Jesse Fritz unless you have electrical issues. Motor may be a tank but the electrical sucks ass
My 93 Jeep grand Cherokee 5.2 has trouble starting when cold-- but works great in warmer weather. Any Ideas off hand.
First of all great video so accurate. I’ve been confused ever since I got my wj. It’s a 4.0 100% but literally has “limited” emblems on the exterior and all the limited options. Am I going crazy?
You can buy an rfid reader / writer / usb for about $10 on Ebay scan your key and program new chipped keys.
I have a 2002 jeep wj limited. I run if with full synthetic oil and no issues. I changed my oil regularly. I offroad it hard and no issues. I think ppl just need to esucate themselves more about this engine. With all my overland gear it's nice to have all that extra power.
To numerous to list.... However Im on my third one . That engine will just not die
Glad I found this video. The only issue I wonder, can any of these problems engine related be covered up for a short period of time to sell a vehicle? Reason I ask is my non 4.7L Grand Cherokee, a 98 ZJ has a knock when its cold that just wouldn't show up over night. It ran and drove great for several months after I bought it, then after it had a full service (oil, filter, lube, etc) it started in with a knock. I thought at first it was a normal lifter rattle that the 4L I6 engines seem to commonly have, but the noise sounds like its from lower in the engine. The noise does go away after the Jeep has warmed up for several minutes. If I jump in it and take off after a few seconds it has the rattle and knocking noise, but if I let it just idle for several minutes then drive away the noise isn't nearly as bad, and like I said the knock goes away after it warms up. Am I overlooking something stupid simple or am I correct in there's a major engine failure on the horizon?
Main bearings are worn
Thanks, I will take note of that before I buy a WJ
It all depends on how u keep it done 500000 general maintainance parts are dime a dozen n everything works ur right about the door wires but it's little things just takes time n effort much better than any xj n most jeeps I owned.i gt the 4.7 nxt best thing is a landcrusier for 4 to 5 times the price n parts super expensive. So go wj go.all I hv to say is the best jeep by far.thanks keep the vedioes comin.
Q - what could be the source of fault when the engines rpm goes up and down? Can be at a red light fex.
Could be the Idle Air Control Valve or the PCM. Check the IAC valve first, they're cheap.
Ive' had my Grand Cherokee Laredo 2001 since begging.. 145K miles. Done most of my own work on it.. Hasn't been to problematic.
But living in Texas, not long ago the radiator cracked and leaked out all fluid(replaced it 8 years ago). Got it home, but it heated up past temp max.
Was receiving code P0307 - Missfire on Cylinder 7. Did some troubleshooting and swapped spark coil 1 w #7 and it moved to #1. So replaced Ignition Coil.
All good? No more codes and replaced 4 sparks on right side of V8. But now it Idles bad and while driving doesn't sound/ feel right.
Almost like a missfire.. It's noticeable right away to me, because I had it for years.
At first thought it was a misfire or a piston not firing, But now think It might be fuel related. Will check fuel pressure and
replace Fuel Filter(Fuel Pressure Regulator) JGC 2001 has them both in one. No engine codes. It starts and ides for 4-5 min roughly.. t
hen eventually goes idle high then low and dies.
Using Torque App on Android and OBDII.I think I successfully loaded all GCJ PID codes. Nothing red comes up on real time data.
So far; replaced 4 sparks on right side and checked spark. Replaced Ignition coil #7 (solved Code), Cleaned IAC valve, Checked Fuel injector current on 1,3,5,7 (bulb lights).
Still need to swap Radiator.(Delivered in 3days)
Any suggestions? Tanx
You have to bleed the air out of the cooling system. There's an 8mm hex plug on the thermostat housing. Remove that plug,then add coolant until it comes out of the hole. Start the engine and watch the thermostat housing until all the air bubbles come out. You might have to add coolant as you're watching it. When just coolant comes out and no bubbles put the plug back in. Cooling system is bled and no air pockets stuck in the heads.
I've got a 2004 wj with the 4.7 and I got 242000 miles on it and it's still going strong
Mines got 204000, runs strong too
201000 runs strong but she puffs a little smoke lol
@@bassboostedd8220 I just hit 245k today
I have a 02 grand Cherokee. Was running fine. Killed it. Went to start it back and key won't turn the truck over. I can pull relay and with key forward jump across the relay with a wire and it will start. But key does nothing.
I'm sorry, but I don't know a single person with a WJ that has had all these problems. I have a 2004 GC Limited 4.7 with 122K on it and it's a dream to drive. Mine looks almost new compared to this one. It's obviously had a very hard life with someone that never took care of it.
It's like they took the entire interior from the 300 and put it in the Cherokee. My 300 had all of those issues, my jeep only has the blend door issue.
I have the door issues too & the heat is crappy, not warm.
2002 Jeep v6 4.0 160,000 love it 😊
i got the 2000 Grand Cherokee limited with the 4.0 and my clock spring went bad and it made the horn blow when the steering wheel was turned to far but i put alot of money into this one only paid 300.00 for it ,( new radiator, upper and lower hoses,thermostat ,heater core,control doors for heat cause they were broke, heater hoses,clock spring,rear calipers and pads,replaced all shocks on hood and both sets on liftgate ,new tires,new shocks all the way around. but it has 224,000 miles and runs great and change the oil every 3,000 miles. Great running jeep just wish it was 4WD instead of 2WD .
Lol. I done those exact same repairs! 2000 4.0 200k
The wiring near the front door hinges is notorious for clean breaks - most notably the fat Orange wire with a White stripe. This is the wire that controls your windows and the power door locks. Daimler used stiff wiring that over time will eventually split in half like a clean break. I've added a longer solid orange wire using solderless connectors. You will have to remove the doors in order to get to it.
I've had that wire break on both the driver's and front passenger door, and was able to fix it each time without removing even the door panels... it is cramped, but very do-able.
Just slap a mk4 gli recaro set in shampoo the carpets and get factory floor mats . I also have all inner outer tie rods upper lower ball joints ,needs strut bearings and rear axle bushings and a alignment it rides like stock merc. With 1"drop
Granted there are cars that aren’t known for reliability but most of the issues have to do with user error not regularly maintaining ignoring small issues
Your right that’s the number one problem with jeep owners lack of maintenance
4.7 is nice. Really anything is decent if you take care of it. I just got an 04 wj 4.7 laredo. With 131k. The wj are def the best jeep for the money. I got leather seats but really like those Limited ones. Might just grab some headrest instead of seat swap.
Good day. I am from Sierra Leone. I have a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ of the same age. It cranked but did not start. The timing was reset and it can now start. But the problem now is, when the engine is running and engages gear R or D it stalls. Can you advice what is the problem?
You forgot to mention that the rear control arms like to rust of the frame, first thing I look at when I see one of these (99-04)
Hey Sir I love my WJ I bought it new in 2004 I've not yet had any trouble. The power steering pump at 200,000 is starting to go. The heater control is waring holes in the plate. But hey it's got 200,000 it got the 4.7 and yes I service every 3,000 miles.
I think it's the most best Jeep 2004 Grand Cherokee larado I didn't get the unlimited. Like you said more stuff b to break down. Hey guys and lady's if you can find one with the 4.7 with 100,000 get it most reliable vehicle yet.
Oh yeah I did forget the wiring in the driver's door, but I had a friend who was a electrician bro, it fixed it 8 year ago and he fixed it in 15min. Spiced it no problem.
I have a 2001 WJ and I have none of these problems.
I have 330,000 on mine , I have the skim unit issue I’ve jerry rigged a disconnect under the steering wheel which works. But the seats I’ve replaced it’s a hollow pin that holds the seat to the track that breaks and lets the seat wiggle. Everything else is ship shape I dog the piss out of it 24/7 and it’s running beautifully.
Everything except front window regulators and front brake calipers is all factory as well
i love my GC WJ, it helps me to much, has a big performance
Your spot on with wj’s common problems 👌🏾
my window switch, chirp when I lock the doors, steering wheel radio functions and auto headlight function stopped working at the same time what you think may be the cause
Bro wtf you done to that interior!!!???
I don't have those issues at 124k on a 04 4.7 I just can't get the fob to work more then 3 feet from it with new batteries
I have a 2004 Grand Cherokee Especial Edition I purchased 4 years ago cheap with a overheated seized engine. I replaced it with a rebuilt engine and I did notice the sticker under the hood that said you must bleed the engine. If you do not you could have some valves drop. I noticed in the MN winter with a worm vehicle if I went in a store long enough for it to get cold inside the heater was cold even if I waited for my girl friend for a half hr. But if I drove it a couple blocks the heater was hot. I drove it most of a winter like that until I saw a UA-cam video TOU HAVE TO remove a plug to the side of the water pump and fill it with a funnel and coolant. Mine took a half gallon after driving it for 6 months. I hope I did not do too much damage to my new engine but it still runs fine but I am sure it would never bleed it self. Some one told me the 4.7 is the only Dodge/jeep/Chrysler engine you have to do that on. So add that to a possible issue if you replaced your own coolant for any reason.
Have issues with key on mine, guy came from out of state, programmed keys for $75 each. I paid $500 for mine, 99 WJ with 6 inch rough country lift and 35 inch BFG's.
Have a 2000 , bought it with 60K one owner miles. Now at 160K. Has always had wiring nightmares, left turn / brake light works for a few days and won't work for weeks, replaced and repaired until just gave up on that, wiring isn't worth spending money on. Now transmission stopped working, code scanner showed P0732 / Pop731, changed filters, the screw in filter fell out when i dropped the pan. Called a friend who is a retired transmission specialist, he would not even rebuild it, said that was one tranny he never would work on because too many problems. I installed new filters, it again caught in gear, i thought it was fixed, now it slips after getting warmed up, won't shift gears but you can manually shift 3 - 2 - drive and reverse but no shifting automatic and the slipping have to rev up engine to pull out but don't seem to slip while driving, letting off the gas in drive, feels like it's slowing to much, more like it's in second? Brakes have had lockup problems, I changed everything, yes everything and a few months later another brake locks. Engine runs like new, it's all the little things that makes me want to shoot it and bury it. Worst vehicle ever. My 2000 GMC 5.3 4x4 has 270K and still runs like a new truck. GMC, now that's how you build a vehicle ! With all the complaining you had with your jeep, how can you end by saying what a great vehicle it is....IF of course you don't mind the electrical, the heat and air, the wiring, the sun roof, the seats the etc, etc. ? Yep, sounds like you've got a great one there too !!!
I got my 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.0L with 230K.. for $700.00 best money I spent. I have none of these problems original motor and transmission only thing I fix was normal.
You mentioned misfiring. My commander definitely is misfiring with no codes and no one including the dealership has figured it out.
Had some of these issues on my 4.0 inline 6
What issues did you have? My 96 ZJ I had no issues at all and that poor thing was beat on all the time. My 98 ZJ has what I seem to hear is a low end knock but it goes away after it warms up? So I suspect a major engine failure here soon but the knock goes away after it warms up so its quite confusing, I would think anything major like a rod knock, bearing, that type of stuff would be present regardless of temperature wouldn't it? I can't get it to do it just sitting on my carport revving the engine, it only does it when under load in gear when cold...maybe something else not engine related? Transmission has a whine noise in reverse when its cold as well. This Jeep has issues that I wouldn't think it should have given its overall condition.