The 2nd gen Jeep Cherokee existed for a long time as a popular utility vehicle for daily driving and off-roading. While there is no particular issue with the Jeep Cherokee, all vehicles have their issues. Here are the top 5 Jeep Cherokee problems of the 2nd generation, years 1984 to 2001.
Top 5 Issues on the 2nd Gen Jeep Cherokee (1984 to 2001)
1. Throttle Position Sensor Failure
Symptom of Throttle Position Sensor Failure
- Rough running engine
- Hesitation while accelerating
- Problems starting like hard starting
How to Fix Throttle Position Sensor Failure
This throttle position sensor is located on the backside of the throttle body. Replacing the throttle body or the throttle position sensor itself will fix this issue on the 2nd gen Jeep Cherokee.
2. Oil Leaks
Symptoms of Oil Leaks on the 2nd Gen Jeep Cherokee
- Oil seeping near the corners of the valve cover
- Oil leak underneath the vehicle
Causes of Oil Leaks
The valve cover gasket underneath the valve cover tends to fail on the 2nd gen Jeep Cherokee. The oil pan gasket also tends to fail.
How to Fix Oil Leaks
- To replace the valve cover gasket, remove the valve cover and replace the gasket.
- To replace the oil pan gasket, remove the oil pan and replace the gasket.
3. Transmission Range Selector Switch Failure
Symptoms of a Faulty Transmission Range Selector Switch
- Reverse lights not working
- Check engine light for P0705
How to Fix a Transmission Range Selector Switch
If the switch is defective, replace it.
On most vehicles, the transmission range selector switch is near the shift cover but on the 1984 to 2001 Jeep Cherokee the transmission range selector switch is located on the passenger side of the transmission with a wiring harness that goes up and over the transmission.
4. Exhaust Manifold Failure
Symptoms of Exhaust Manifold Failure
- Ticking noise while driving—especially accelerating
Causes of Exhaust Manifold Problems on the 1984 to 2001 Jeep Cherokee
The exhaust manifold can crack. It usually cracks at its welding points.
How to Fix an Exhaust Manifold
Replace the exhaust manifold.
Read more on how to diagnose and fix an exhaust manifold leak
5. Worn Ignition Wires
Symptoms of Worn Ignition Wires
- Engine is running extremely rough
- Flashing check engine light
Causes of Bad Ignition Wires
Earlier versions of the 2nd gen Cherokee have a distributor with wires that can fail. Wire boots on the ignition coils can also deteriorate.
How to Fix Bad Ignition Wires
- If the Cherokee has a distributor, replace the wires and we also recommend replacing the plug, cap, and rotor.
- If the Cherokee has ignition coils, we recommend replacing the spark plugs at the same time.
2nd Generation Jeep Cherokee Model Years
- 1984 Jeep Cherokee
- 1985 Jeep Cherokee
- 1986 Jeep Cherokee
- 1987 Jeep Cherokee
- 1988 Jeep Cherokee
- 1989 Jeep Cherokee
- 1990 Jeep Cherokee
- 1991 Jeep Cherokee
- 1992 Jeep Cherokee
- 1993 Jeep Cherokee
- 1994 Jeep Cherokee
- 1995 Jeep Cherokee
- 1996 Jeep Cherokee
- 1997 Jeep Cherokee
- 1998 Jeep Cherokee
- 1999 Jeep Cherokee
- 2000 Jeep Cherokee
- 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Related Content
- Why is My Car Leaking Oil?
- Burning Oil Smell? [Diagnose & Fix Valve Cover Gasket Leak]
- How to Diagnose and Fix an Exhaust Manifold Leak
- 11 Common Jeep Problems & Complaints – Death Wobble
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