2000 Jeep Cherokee

2000 Jeep Cherokee

Overview

The 2000 Jeep Cherokee, a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts and those seeking a rugged SUV, presents a mixed bag of reliability. While its core mechanical components, particularly the powertrain, are generally robust and capable of handling demanding conditions, certain model years and specific configurations have known vulnerabilities. Owners often praise its durability and off-road prowess, but attention to common electrical gremlins and potential cooling system issues is advised. Regular maintenance is key to longevity, but understanding these specific potential failure points can help owners anticipate and address problems proactively, ensuring the Cherokee continues to serve its purpose effectively.

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Engine

4.0L Inline-6

Head Gasket Failure

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil.
• Solution: Replacement of head gasket and potentially cylinder head resurfacing.
• Cost: $1200 - $2500

Cracked Cylinder Head

• Symptoms: Similar to head gasket failure: overheating, coolant loss, misfires.
• Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

Oil Filter Adapter O-ring Leak

• Symptoms: Oil leaks around the oil filter housing.
• Solution: Replacement of the O-ring.
• Cost: $50 - $150

2.5L Inline-4

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Transmission

42RE Automatic

Slipping Gears / Harsh Shifting

• Symptoms: Transmission slips between gears, delayed engagement, harsh shifts.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or full transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $300 - $3000

Overheating

• Symptoms: Transmission fluid smells burnt, erratic shifting, especially under load.
• Solution: Installation of an auxiliary transmission cooler.
• Cost: $200 - $500

AX-15 Manual

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or entire control arms.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Leaf Spring Sagging

• Symptoms: Rear end sags, reduced load capacity, poor ride quality.
• Solution: Replacement of rear leaf springs.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Electrical

General Electrical System

Instrument Cluster Failures

• Symptoms: Gauges not working, flickering lights, intermittent power loss to cluster.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows stop working, slow operation, grinding noises.
• Solution: Replacement of window regulators.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure

• Symptoms: Engine stalls while driving, no-start condition, intermittent stalling.
• Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Exterior

Body and Paint

Rust on Body Panels

• Symptoms: Corrosion, bubbling paint, holes in fenders, rocker panels, and tailgate.
• Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, and repainting.
• Cost: $500 - $3000+

Tailgate Issues

• Symptoms: Sticking tailgate, broken latches, rust around the tailgate.
• Solution: Lubrication, latch repair/replacement, rust treatment.
• Cost: $100 - $500

Interior

Interior Components

Headliner Sagging

• Symptoms: Fabric lining of the roof begins to detach and sag.
• Solution: Re-gluing or replacement of the headliner.
• Cost: $200 - $500

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or intermittent fan speed.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or resistor.
• Cost: $150 - $350

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Summary Verdict

The 2000 Jeep Cherokee, particularly with the venerable 4.0L inline-six engine, is known for its robust off-road capability and general durability. However, potential owners should be aware of common issues such as head gasket failures and cracked cylinder heads on the 4.0L, and transmission problems like slipping or overheating, especially with the 42RE automatic. Electrical gremlins, including instrument cluster and window regulator failures, are also frequently reported. Rust can be a significant concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters. While not without its flaws, many of these issues are well-documented and repairable, making the Cherokee a potentially rewarding vehicle for those willing to perform diligent maintenance and address known weak points.