1990 Jeep Cherokee

1990 Jeep Cherokee

The 1990 Jeep Cherokee was a popular SUV that offered a rugged and versatile driving experience. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:

• 4.0L inline-6 engine (190 hp and 225 lb-ft of torque)
• 2.5L inline-4 engine (117 hp and 152 lb-ft of torque)
• 5-speed manual transmission
• 4-speed automatic transmission

Drivers praised the Cherokee’s off-road capabilities, spacious interior, and affordable price. However, it also had some known issues.

Engine

4.0L Inline-6 Engine

• Head gasket failure: This can cause coolant and oil to leak into the combustion chambers, leading to overheating, rough idling, and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Replacing the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake manifold gasket failure: This can cause a vacuum leak, which can lead to reduced engine power, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing chain failure: The timing chain can stretch or break over time, which can cause the engine to lose power or stall.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Inline-4 Engine

• No major issues found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• No major issues found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission slipping: This can cause the transmission to lose power or shudder when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission or rebuilding the existing one.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure: The leaf springs can break or sag over time, which can affect ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock absorber failure: The shock absorbers can wear out over time, which can lead to a rough ride and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, which can prevent the battery from charging and cause the vehicle to stall.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure: The starter can fail, which can prevent the engine from starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust: The Cherokee is prone to rust, especially in areas where salt is used on the roads.
  • Solution: Regular rust prevention measures, such as washing and waxing the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the rust
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door handle failure: The door handles can break or become loose over time.
  • Solution: Replacing the door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat fabric tearing: The seat fabric can tear or wear over time.
  • Solution: Replacing the seat fabric or using seat covers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard cracking: The dashboard can crack or warp over time due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dash cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Jeep Cherokee is a capable and affordable SUV, but it has some known issues that can be costly to repair. The most common issues affect the engine, transmission, and suspension. Rust can also be a problem, especially in areas where salt is used on the roads. Overall, the Cherokee is a reliable vehicle, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before purchasing one.