Jeep Cherokee 2.5 TD Limited SE 5d (1996/P) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
A well-equipped 4x4. Not as much room as say a Nissan Patrol. Has rear limited slip diff, and loads of extras not seen on vehciles supposedly 'better'.
Costs
Depends who you use for servicing and how much you do yourself. Apart from normal wear and tear, costs are reasonable. Fuel economy is not bad and parts are comparable with 'ordinary' cars.
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On the road
Driving
If you have ever driven a old sportscar, you will get a similar feeling driving a Cherokee. Take a corner too quickly and the rear will skip out. The four wheel drive system is effective, although old technology, it is tried and tested and works well.
Performance
The 2.5 TDi engine is not quick, but it has it where it counts including off road with bags of torque. Tires, suspension and regular maintance is the key to getting the best out of the VM powered Cherekee.
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Living with it
Reliability
The VM can be a problem; always get a full service history, check for wear if used for towing. Generally reliable if kept serviced well, especially the engine.
Image
The Cherokee may not have the smooth lines of it's modern counterparts, however it has an unmistakeable style and the boxy looks set it apart. Retaining the live axels of a true 4x4 it looks the part too.
Comfort
The Ltd SE has all the features you could ask for. The only negative comment we have had had has been rear door access and the slab rear seats. Not bad for a vehicle designed in the seventies.
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Security and Service
Security
Immobiliser and central locking as standard. Alarm systems optional. The immobiliser arms even if not set. Doors can be locked by the driver and an anti-carjack feature on the keyless remote.
Service
Dealerships are expensive at £70 an hour, however support is good. There are a number of specialist independent dealers and engineers around, 4x4 clubs and press can be a good source of information, as well as the web.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
The engine is generally good, but oil changes are a must. A worn oil breather pipe has been replaced and injectors needed cleaning, not picked up on by the dealer, otherwise ok.
Other
Rear dampers needed replacing, again 'missed' by the dealer.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes