1990-1996 Jeep Cherokee: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to Jeep Cherokee
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1996 Jeep Cherokee and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Wet-weather traction (4WD)
- Acceleration (6-cylinder)
- Passenger and cargo room
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Acceleration (4-cylinder)
- Noise
Vehicle Highlights
Launched in 1984, Cherokee was the first compact sport-utility vehicle to offer a 5-door body style. Powered at first by anemic 4-cylinder and V6 engines, Cherokees got a big boost in 1987 with the optional 4.0-liter inline six. Cherokees came with rear-wheel drive, part-time Command-Trac 4-wheel drive, or Selec-Trac full-time 4WD. Four-wheel antilock braking had become an option in 1989 on vehicles with a 6-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, and Selec-Trac. ABS worked in both 2WD and 4WD. For 1990, Cherokees came in base and plush Limited trim.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Jeep Cherokee Sport 4-door 6-cylinder Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 7 | |
| Value within Class | 7 | |
| Total Score: | 39 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1996 Jeep Cherokee. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1996 Jeep Cherokee.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Jeep Cherokee:
A 4-door Sport Cherokee joined the 2-door Sport, and a new Briarwood replaced the Wagoneer Limited, retaining woodgrain bodyside graphics. Four-cylinder horsepower rose from 121 to 130. All but the base model came with the 6-cylinder engine, which gained 13 horsepower.
1992 Jeep Cherokee:
Cherokees showed little change.
1993 Jeep Cherokee:
A new upscale Grand Cherokee arrived for 1993, dropping this regular Cherokee line down a notch. Jeep dropped its top-line Cherokees to highlight the difference.
1994 Jeep Cherokee:
New safety features included side door-guard beams and a center high-mounted stoplamp.
1995 Jeep Cherokee:
A driver-side airbag arrived in 1995, and the base SE model gained reclining front bucket seats. Three models went on sale: SE, Sport, and Country (the latter 4-door only). Four-cylinder Cherokees became available later in the season with a 3-speed automatic transmission.
1996 Jeep Cherokee:
The 4-cylinder dropped five horsepower, to 125, and was no longer available with the 3-speed automatic transmission. Cherokee would be redesigned for 1997.
Our road test for the 1990-1996 Jeep Cherokee includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1996 Jeep Cherokee and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1996 Jeep Cherokee is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The base 4-cylinder Cherokee's engine is adequate with manual shift, weak under a heavy load, and downright feeble and unresponsive if hooked to an automatic transmission. With either transmission, the robust 6-cylinder engine lets you sprint away from stoplights and quickly pass other vehicles. Expect about 17 mpg with a manual-shift six, or 15 mpg with automatic. All models have higher-than-average wind, road, and engine noise. These vehicles are spacious inside for their modest exterior dimensions--though not quite comparable to the Grand Cherokee or a Ford Explorer. Four sit in comfort. Head room is generous all around, and with a little squeezing, back seats accommodate three adults. Folding that rear seatback produces great luggage space, with a long and flat floor, and volume is acceptable with the seatback up. The long steering column puts the wheel too close to the driver's chest.
Value for the Money
Cherokees offer a lot of temptations, serving as an excellent alternative for those who cannot afford a Grand Cherokee or Explorer. Next to something like the latest Chevrolet Blazer, though, they do seem a step behind in civility.
Cherokees offer a lot of temptations, serving as an excellent alternative for those who cannot afford a Grand Cherokee or Explorer. Next to something like the latest Chevrolet Blazer, though, they do seem a step behind in civility.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Jeep Cherokee Sport 4-door 6-cylinder Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 7 | |
| Value within Class | 7 | |
| Total Score: | 39 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Jeep Cherokee includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Jeep Cherokee .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
If the air conditioner gradually stops cooling, the computer (PCM) may not be sending a signal to the compressor-clutch relay to cycle off, which causes the A/C evaporator to freeze up. (1991-95)
Automatic transmission:
If the transmission will not engage when first started, chances are the torque converter is draining down. A check valve in the fluid line leading to the transmission cooler should fix the problem. (1993) If the transmission won't upshift for about the first quarter mile in cool weather, it is probably due to defective cast-iron seal rings in the governor drive. (1993-94)
Oil leak:
The rear main seals on 2.5- and 4.0-liter engines are prone to leakage if the vehicle is operated in dirty conditions. (1991-96)
Suspension problems:
Front end shimmy may continue long after hitting a bump or pothole requiring revised lower control arms be installed. (1999-01)
Transmission leak:
Automatic-transmission fluid leaks from the speed sensor in the transmission. (1993-94)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $390 |
| Alternator | $355 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $680 |
| Brakes | $265 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $495 |
| Exhaust System | $270 |
| Radiator | $380 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $190 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $185 |
| Universal Joints | $145 |
Our price chart for this generation Jeep Cherokee details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1996 | |||
| Cherokee 2WD | $1,500-2,600 | $1,000-1,700 | $200-300 |
| Cherokee 4WD | $2,100-3,200 | $1,500-2,200 | $400-600 |
| 1995 | |||
| Cherokee 2WD | $1,400-2,400 | $900-1,500 | $200-300 |
| Cherokee 4WD | $1,900-3,000 | $1,300-2,100 | $300-500 |
| 1994 | |||
| Cherokee 2WD | $1,300-2,000 | $800-1,300 | $200 |
| Cherokee 4WD | $1,700-2,500 | $1,100-1,700 | $300-400 |
| 1993 | |||
| Cherokee 2WD | $1,200-1,800 | $700-1,100 | $100-200 |
| Cherokee 4WD | $1,600-2,300 | $1,100-1,500 | $200-300 |
| 1992 | |||
| Cherokee 2WD | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| Cherokee 4WD | $1,500-2,100 | $1,000-1,400 | $200-300 |
| 1991 | |||
| Cherokee 2WD | $1,000-1,400 | $600-800 | $100 |
| Cherokee 4WD | $1,400-1,800 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| 1990 | |||
| Cherokee 2WD | $1,000-1,300 | $600-800 | $100 |
| Cherokee 4WD | $1,400-1,700 | $900-1,100 | $200 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Jeep Cherokee include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door wagon | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 101.4 | 101.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 166.9 | 166.9 |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.7 | 67.7 |
| Overall Height, in. | 63.8 | 63.8 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2905 | 2955 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 71.8 | 71.8 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 20.2 | 20.2 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.3 | 38.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.4 | 41.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.5 | 38.5 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.9 | 34.9 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Cherokees may have either a 4-cylinder engine or a 4.0-liter inline 6-cylinder, the latter developing 177 horsepower in 1990. Both engines gained power in 1991, growing to 130 and 190 horsepower, respectively. For 1996, the 4-cylinder lost five horses and sixes reached peak horsepower and torque at lower rpm than before. Command-Trac 4WD is a part-time system with shift-on-the-fly capability. Selec-Trac is a full-time system that can be used on smooth, dry pavement.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv I4 | 2.5 / 151 | 121-130 | 141-150 | 5-speed manual: 19/22 | 5-speed manual: -- |
| ohv I6 | 4.0 / 242 | 177-190 | 224-225 | 5-speed manual: 17/22 4-speed automatic: 15/19 |
5-speed manual: 17 4-speed automatic: 15 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Jeep Cherokee include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1996 Cherokee |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1996 Jeep Cherokee directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1990 w/4.0-liter engine and automatic:
Could have intermittent high idle speed.
1990 w/ABS:
Hydraulic fluid may be contaminated.
1990-91 w/ABS:
Hydraulic control unit for antilock braking system can experience excessive brake-actuator piston-seal wear, which could lead to loss of antilock function and reduced power assist.
1990-91 w/ABS:
Improper insertion/crimping of hose fittings can result in loss of ABS function.
1990-96 in 15 states and Washington, D.C.:
Front-disc brake rotors can experience severe corrosion if operated for extensive period in "salt belt"; can eventually compromise structural integrity, allowing wear surface to separate from hub.
1991 w/ABS:
Brake-fluid tube may contact steering shaft and result in leakage.
1991:
Jounce bumper could contact and collapse left rear brake tube.
1993:
Retainer clip that secures master-cylinder rod to brake pedal was not installed properly.
1993-96:
High steering loads can cause steering-gear bolts to break or frame to crack.
1994:
Rear-seatbelt bolts may not support passengers in sudden stop.
1995:
Certain airbags might not deploy in an accident.
1995:
Parking-brake handle-release button can separate, so parking brake may not hold and vehicle could roll inadvertently.
1996:
Fasteners that secure alternator fuse could have improper clamp load; arcing could cause fire in engine compartment.
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
