The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee belongs to the second generation (ZJ/ZG) of this iconic SUV. It's a mid-size SUV known for its blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. Model years for this generation ran from 1993-1998 (ZG models are essentially the same but built in Austria). Key trims included Laredo, Limited, and TSi. A new one in 1998 ranged roughly from $26,000 to $36,000 depending on the trim. Its robust 4x4 system and available V8 engine made it popular amongst those seeking adventure.
The Good
The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a potent combination of performance, especially with the V8 engine, and reasonable reliability for its age. It boasts a comfortable ride and classic Jeep design that appeals to enthusiasts. Its strong 4x4 system inspires confidence and provides practical off-road capability, while affordability in the used market adds significant value.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee include potential rust issues, particularly in areas with road salt. Electrical gremlins can surface, and the automatic transmission is a known weak point if not properly maintained. Fuel economy is also poor, especially with the V8. Check for oil leaks and signs of overheating before purchasing.
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.0L Inline-6: Produces around 185-195 horsepower and 220-225 lb-ft of torque.
- 5.2L V8 (Optional): Produces around 220 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.
- 5.9L V8 (Limited availability): Produces around 245 horsepower and 345 lb-ft of torque (available on the TSi model)
- Horsepower: Ranging from 185 hp to 245 hp depending on engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- 4.0L I6: Around 15-16 MPG city / 20-21 MPG highway.
- 5.2L V8: Around 13-15 MPG city / 18-20 MPG highway.
- 5.9L V8: Even lower than the 5.2L V8.
- 0-60 Times:
- 4.0L I6: Approximately 9-10 seconds.
- 5.2L V8: Approximately 8-9 seconds.
- 5.9L V8: Approximately 7 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 6,500 lbs depending on engine and equipment.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Laredo: Base model, typically includes cloth seats, power windows and locks, and basic audio system.
- Limited: Upgrades often include leather seats, upgraded audio system (Infinity), automatic climate control, and wood trim.
- TSi: Sport-oriented trim. Features include a 5.9L V8 engine, unique styling, and sport suspension.
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| Make | Jeep |
| Model | Grand Cherokee |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4WD |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | GRAZ |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4218 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5368 pounds |
| Overall Height | 64.90 inches |
| Overall Length | 177.20 inches |
| Overall Width | 70.70 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 105.90 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.9-L V-8 OHV 16V |
| Engine Size | 5.9L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $38,275 |
| Invoice Price | $34,392 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Have?
The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee has several frequently reported problems. Rust is a major concern, especially in colder climates where road salt is used. The undercarriage, rocker panels, and lower doors are particularly vulnerable. Transmission issues, specifically with the 42RE automatic transmission, are also common, with reports of slipping and failure. Electrical problems, ranging from faulty sensors to malfunctioning power windows and locks, are also prevalent. Overheating can occur, often due to a clogged radiator or a failing fan clutch. The "blend doors" in the HVAC system are known to break, leading to issues with temperature control. Some model years within the ZJ/ZG generation have experienced recalls related to fuel system components and airbag deployment. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aging drivetrain and the cumulative effects of wear and tear on various components. Regular maintenance and proactive repairs are crucial to keeping a 1998 Grand Cherokee running reliably. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.
How long will the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee last?
With proper maintenance, a 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee can reach 200,000 miles or more. Many examples are still on the road after 25+ years. Average mileage depends heavily on prior owner maintenance habits. Long-term durability hinges on addressing rust, transmission issues, and electrical problems promptly. Weaknesses over time include wear on suspension components, deterioration of rubber seals and hoses, and the increasing likelihood of component failure due to age. Regular fluid changes, rustproofing, and careful monitoring of the cooling system are essential for extending its lifespan. Expect to perform more frequent repairs as the vehicle ages.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee's built-in tech reflects its era. Standard entertainment features typically include an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. Higher trims like the Limited often included a CD player and an upgraded Infinity Gold sound system. Driver-assistance features are limited compared to modern vehicles. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available. Safety features include dual front airbags. Optional features included a security system, and some trims had a trip computer.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for the 1998 Grand Cherokee are mixed. It generally received good marks for driver-side impact protection, but passenger-side protection was often rated lower. It is important to remember that safety standards were different in 1998 compared to today.
Compared to modern vehicles, the 1998 Grand Cherokee lacks advanced safety features like electronic stability control, traction control, and side-impact airbags. It also lacks modern infotainment systems with features like navigation and smartphone integration. The technological offerings are quite basic by today's standards, focusing on core functionality rather than advanced connectivity and driver assistance.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for the 1998 Grand Cherokee are mixed. It generally received good marks for driver-side impact protection, but passenger-side protection was often rated lower. It is important to remember that safety standards were different in 1998 compared to today.
Compared to modern vehicles, the 1998 Grand Cherokee lacks advanced safety features like electronic stability control, traction control, and side-impact airbags. It also lacks modern infotainment systems with features like navigation and smartphone integration. The technological offerings are quite basic by today's standards, focusing on core functionality rather than advanced connectivity and driver assistance.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Clearcoat
Bright Platinum Metallic Clearcoat
Deep Slate Metallic Clearcoat
Emerald Green Metallic Clearcoat
Stone White Clearcoat
Interior Colors
Agate
Camel
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee ranged from approximately $26,000 to $36,000, depending on the trim and options. In today's used market, prices typically range from $2,000 to $8,000, with exceptional examples potentially fetching higher amounts. Depreciation has been significant, as expected for a vehicle of this age. Factors affecting resale value include condition, mileage, rust presence, maintenance history, and trim level. V8 models and well-maintained examples generally command higher prices. Low mileage and the absence of rust are major selling points.
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Cost of Ownership
The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee is not generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs can be moderate, but fuel consumption is high, especially with the V8 engines. Maintenance and repair costs can be significant due to the vehicle's age and potential for breakdowns. Expect to spend more on repairs than with a newer vehicle. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on maintenance habits, but overall, it's likely to be more expensive than a modern, more fuel-efficient vehicle. Rust repair can also add substantial expense.
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
23.00 gallons
City Mileage
13 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
17 miles/gallon
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Recalls & Defects
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:floor Shift
Recall date
2002-02-15
Recall no.
02v053000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles, IF A Driver HAS NOT Placed THE Shifter Lever Fully Into THE "park" Position and Leaves THE Vehicle Running, THE Vehicle MAY Unexpectedly Move Rearward After Seeming TO BE Stable.
Consequence
Inadvertent Movement OF THE Vehicle Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Secondary Detent System TO THE Floor Shifter Assembly. Daimlerchrysler Sent Interim Notices TO Owners Concerning This Problem ON March 22, 2002. Owner Notification Began September 23, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:rotor
Recall date
2000-05-10
Recall no.
00v136000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger and Multi-Purpose Vehicles Originally Sold or Currently Registered IN THE States OF Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, or Wisconsin, and THE District OF Columbia. THE Front Disc Brake Rotors CAN Experience Severe Corrosion IF Operated FOR AN Extensive Period IN THE "salt Belt." IF THE Rotors ARE NOT Replaced, THE Corrosion CAN Eventually Compromise THE Structural Integrity OF THE Stamped Steel Center HUB Section OF THE Rotor.
Consequence
THE Reduced Strength CAN Allow THE Cast Iron Wear Surface TO Separate From THE Hub, Reducing THE Brake Effectiveness OF THE Vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace These Rotors With Rotors That ARE Coated With A Corrosion Protection.
Notes
Owner Notification Began June 5, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-992-1997.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:vacuum
Recall date
1998-02-10
Recall no.
98v023000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles. THE Power Brake Booster Vacuum Reservoir Diaphragm CAN Split or Tear.
Consequence
This CAN Cause AN Increase IN Engine Idle Speed and A Loss OF Power Assist During Brake Application Without Prior Warning.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Brake Booster Date Code and ANY Boosters With THE Suspect Manufacturing Date Range Will BE Replaced.
Notes
Owner Notification Began March 25, 1998. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-992-1997.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2006-02-01
Recall no.
06e011000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Aftermarket Airtex Electric Fuel Pumps Installed FOR USE AS Replacement Equipment FOR Certain 1997-2004 Jeep Wrangler; 1997-2001 Jeep Cherokee; 1997-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee; and 2000-2003 Dodge Dakota Vehicles. THE Plastic Electrical Grommet Connectors AT THE Top OF THE Fuel Pump Module ARE NOT Compatible With Automotive Fuels and MAY Degrade Causing A Potential Leak Path FOR Fuel.
Consequence
IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, A Fuel Leak Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Airtex Will Notify ITS Customers and Will Replace THE Affected Fuel Pumps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON January 25, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Airtex Customer Service Department AT 1-800-880-3056.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Airtex Electric Fuel Pumps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, Wrangler, or Dodge Dakota Vehicles Manufactured BY Daimlerchrysler.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Recall date
2006-03-13
Recall no.
06e022000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Aftermarket Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders Sold AS Replacement Brake Cylinders FOR Certain Ford, Daimlerchrysler, and Jeep Passenger Vehicles. These Brake Cylinders Were Sold Under THE Brand Names OF Napa, Raybestos, Aimco, AC Delco, Carquest, Bendix, and Wagner. Only Products That Were Manufactured From July 27, 2005 Through January 17, 2006 (Date Codes 0529 Through 0602) ARE Subject TO This Recall. When Subject TO Very Cold Temperatures, AN Internal Seal IN THE Master Cylinder Could Lose Flexibility and MAY Cause Brake Fluid TO Leak.
Consequence
Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Lead TO A Decrease IN Brake Line Pressure and AN Increase IN Stopping Distance, Which CAN Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Affinia (Brake Parts, Inc.) Will Replace THE Subject Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 20, 2006. Owners CAN Contact Affina Group Customer Service AT 1-800-323-0354.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Napa, Raybestos, AC Delco, Aimco, Carquest, and Bendix Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Daimlerchrysler or Ford Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-03-23
Recall no.
06e026000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Pro-A Motors Corner Lamps, Turn Signals, and Headlights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence
Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
Pro-A Motors Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase THE Lamps. THE Recall Began ON April 3, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Pro-A Motors AT 323-838-2988.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Pro-A Motors Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:glass, Side/Rear
Recall date
2007-12-11
Recall no.
07e104000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Curved Tempered Replacement Glass Manufactured BY Hangzhou Safety Glass LTD and Supplied TO Safelite BY Auto Temp Inc., Identified AS Dot-430, and Sold FOR USE ON Certain Domestic and Foreign Vehicles MAY NOT Break Into Small Pieces AS Expected OF Tempered Glass and Fails TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 205, "glazing Materials."
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash, THE Occupant(S) MAY BE Seriously Injured BY Shattered Glass.
Remedy
Safelite Will Notify ITS Retail Customers and Replace THE Glass Free OF Charge. Retail Customers CAN Contact Safelite Toll Free AT 1-888-843-2906. Safelite Will Notify ITS Wholesale Customers and Reimburse Wholesale Customers FOR Current Inventory and AT A Specified Rate FOR Replacing Their Customer's Glass. Wholesale Customers CAN Contact Safelite's Wholesale Division, Service Autoglass Toll Free AT 1-888-246-6298. THE Recall Began ON January 15, 2008.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Certain Curved Tempered Replacement Glass Manufactured BY Hangzhou Safety Glass, Ltd. (Dot-430) and Supplied TO Safelite BY Auto Temp Inc., and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2009-05-11
Recall no.
09e025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date
2013-06-19
Recall no.
13v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty Vehicles. THE Fuel Tanks IN These Vehicles ARE AT Risk OF Failure and Leakage IN Certain Rear Impacts.
Consequence
A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Owners MAY Take Their Vehicles TO Dealers and THE Dealers Will Perform A Free Inspection OF THE Rear Structure. ON Vehicles IN THE Recall That ARE NOT Equipped With A TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Install A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch Free OF Charge, Provided THE Condition OF THE Vehicle CAN Support Proper Installation. ON Vehicles IN THE Recall That ARE Equipped With AN Aftermarket TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Assess Whether THE Hitch and Surrounding Areas Show Evidence OF Sharp Edges or Other Puncture Risks. IF SO, Chrysler Will Replace THE TOW Hitch With A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch Free OF Charge, Provided THE Condition OF THE Vehicle CAN Support Proper Installation. ON Vehicles Already Equipped With A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Inspect THE Area Around THE TOW Hitch Installation, and IF ANY Installation Issues ARE Identified, They Will BE Repaired Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 1, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's Recall Campaign Numbers ARE N45 (For THE Grand Cherokee Vehicles) and N46 (For THE Liberty Vehicles).
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure
Recall date
2013-06-19
Recall no.
13v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty Vehicles. THE Fuel Tanks IN These Vehicles ARE AT Risk OF Failure and Leakage IN Certain Rear Impacts.
Consequence
A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Owners MAY Take Their Vehicles TO Dealers and THE Dealers Will Perform A Free Inspection OF THE Rear Structure. ON Vehicles IN THE Recall That ARE NOT Equipped With A TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Install A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch Free OF Charge, Provided THE Condition OF THE Vehicle CAN Support Proper Installation. ON Vehicles IN THE Recall That ARE Equipped With AN Aftermarket TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Assess Whether THE Hitch and Surrounding Areas Show Evidence OF Sharp Edges or Other Puncture Risks. IF SO, Chrysler Will Replace THE TOW Hitch With A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch Free OF Charge, Provided THE Condition OF THE Vehicle CAN Support Proper Installation. ON Vehicles Already Equipped With A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Inspect THE Area Around THE TOW Hitch Installation, and IF ANY Installation Issues ARE Identified, They Will BE Repaired Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 1, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's Recall Campaign Numbers ARE N45 (For THE Grand Cherokee Vehicles) and N46 (For THE Liberty Vehicles).
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee competed with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, and Nissan Pathfinder. Compared to the Explorer, the Grand Cherokee often offered a more refined interior and superior off-road capability, especially with the Quadra-Trac system. The Blazer was generally less expensive but offered a less powerful base engine. The Pathfinder offered comparable reliability but a less distinctive design.
In terms of performance, the Grand Cherokee's V8 engines were competitive. However, fuel economy was typically worse than its rivals. Features were comparable for the era, but the Grand Cherokee's interior design stood out. Reliability is a mixed bag; some rivals may prove slightly more dependable over the long term.
Alternatives to consider include later-model Grand Cherokees (WJ generation) which offer improved reliability and refinement. The Toyota 4Runner is another strong contender known for its longevity. If off-road prowess is paramount, a slightly older Jeep Cherokee (XJ) can be a good, more affordable option, albeit with less comfort.
In terms of performance, the Grand Cherokee's V8 engines were competitive. However, fuel economy was typically worse than its rivals. Features were comparable for the era, but the Grand Cherokee's interior design stood out. Reliability is a mixed bag; some rivals may prove slightly more dependable over the long term.
Alternatives to consider include later-model Grand Cherokees (WJ generation) which offer improved reliability and refinement. The Toyota 4Runner is another strong contender known for its longevity. If off-road prowess is paramount, a slightly older Jeep Cherokee (XJ) can be a good, more affordable option, albeit with less comfort.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee is ideal for budget-minded enthusiasts seeking a capable SUV with classic Jeep styling and solid off-road potential. It's worth buying if you're willing to accept its age-related quirks and potential maintenance needs. A well-maintained example with minimal rust is crucial. The Limited trim offers more desirable features, but any model should undergo a thorough inspection before purchase. Avoid examples with known transmission problems or significant rust damage. This vehicle is best suited for those who appreciate its character and are prepared for DIY repairs or higher maintenance costs. Buying one that's already well-maintained is key.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.