Common Jeep Cherokee Problems: 2nd Generation (1984 to 2001)

Jeep Cherokee Probelms

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.

Fix 2nd gen Jeep Cherokee problems yourself with quality auto parts at 1aauto.com

Top 5 Issues on the 2nd Gen Jeep Cherokee (1984 to 2001)

1. Throttle Position Sensor Failure

Throttle position sensor switch on the backside of the throttle body
Throttle position sensor switch on the backside of the throttle body

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

Valve cover on the 2nd gen Jeep Cherokee
Valve cover on the 2nd gen Jeep Cherokee

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

Transmission range selector switch on the passenger side of the 2nd gen Jeep Cherokee's transmission
Transmission range selector switch on the passenger side of the 2nd gen Jeep Cherokee’s transmission

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

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Summary
Common Jeep Cherokee Problems -1984 to 2001 - 1A Auto
Article Name
Common Jeep Cherokee Problems -1984 to 2001 - 1A Auto
Description
This post reviews common Jeep Cherokee problems of the 2nd generation, years 1984 to 2001, like throttle position sensor failure and oil leaks.
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1A Auto
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