1998 Jeep Cherokee problems
The Jeep Cherokee is a line of SUVs manufactured and marketed by Jeep over five generations.
Marketed initially as a variant of the Jeep Wagoneer, the Cherokee has evolved from a full-size SUV to one of the first compact SUVs and into its current generation as a crossover SUV.
Named after the Cherokee tribe of Native Americans in the United States, Jeep has used the nameplate in some capacity since late 1973 when American Motors Corporation introduced the 1974 model year line.
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Common 1998 Jeep Cherokee problems
The 1998 Jeep Cherokee is known for several common problems that affect its performance, reliability, and safety. These issues are primarily related to the engine, transmission, electrical system, and suspension, which can lead to inconvenience, costly repairs, and even accidents if not addressed promptly.
- Crank Sensor Failure: The crank sensor is a critical component of the engine management system in the 1998 Jeep Cherokee. When it fails, the engine may suddenly stall or fail to start, causing inconvenience and safety risks. The crank sensor is responsible for detecting the position and speed of the crankshaft, which is essential for the engine control unit (ECU) to control ignition and fuel injection. A failing crank sensor can cause the engine to misfire, stall, or fail to start, making it difficult to drive the vehicle. The crank sensor is located between the bell housing and the engine block, making it challenging to access and replace. However, replacing the crank sensor can fix the problem in most cases.
- Exhaust Manifold Cracking: The exhaust manifold is a critical component of the exhaust system in the 1998 Jeep Cherokee. It is responsible for collecting exhaust gases from the engine's cylinders and directing them into the exhaust pipe. However, the factory exhaust manifold is prone to cracking, especially at the sharp v-points where the exhaust outlets connect. This can cause exhaust leaks, reduced engine performance, and increased emissions. The cracking is caused by the flex of the engine, which puts stress on the welds and causes them to fail over time. Jeep updated the exhaust manifold with two exhaust flex pipes on either end, which has solved the problem and increased the durability of the manifold.
- Power Window Failure: The power windows in the 1998 Jeep Cherokee can fail, especially in the driver's door. This can be caused by dirty or corroded contacts, which prevent the window motor from operating properly. Cleaning the contacts can fix the problem in most cases, but if the contacts are severely corroded, they may need to be replaced.
- Steering Wheel Jumping and Noise: The steering wheel in the 1998 Jeep Cherokee can jump or make noise when turning, especially after hitting a bump or pothole. This can be caused by worn or damaged steering components, such as the steering gear, linkage, or bushings. Replacing the worn or damaged components can fix the problem and improve the steering feel and responsiveness.
- Lurching or Jumping Forward: The 1998 Jeep Cherokee can lurch or jump forward when shifting from park to drive, which can be caused by a worn or damaged transmission or torque converter. Replacing the worn or damaged components can fix the problem and improve the smoothness of the transmission.
- Noise When Accelerating and Decelerating: The 1998 Jeep Cherokee can make noise when accelerating and decelerating, which can be caused by worn or damaged drivetrain components, such as the universal joints or CV joints. Replacing the worn or damaged components can fix the problem and improve the smoothness of the drivetrain.
- Burned-Out Gear Selector Back-Light: The gear selector back-light in the 1998 Jeep Cherokee can burn out, which can make it difficult to see the gear position at night. Replacing the back-light bulb can fix the problem and improve the visibility of the gear position.
- Squealing Noise When Turning the A/C On: The 1998 Jeep Cherokee can make a squealing noise when turning the A/C on, which can be caused by a worn or damaged A/C belt or a loose A/C compressor. Tightening the belt or replacing the compressor can fix the problem and eliminate the noise.
- Engine Stalling or Shutting Off While Driving: The 1998 Jeep Cherokee can stall or shut off while driving, which can be caused by several factors, such as a faulty fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or dirty fuel injectors. Replacing the faulty or dirty components can fix the problem and improve the reliability of the engine.
- Death Wobble: The 1998 Jeep Cherokee is prone to a phenomenon known as "death wobble," which is a violent oscillation of the front axle that can cause the vehicle to shake uncontrollably. This can be caused by several factors, such as worn or damaged steering components, misaligned wheels, or damaged suspension components. Replacing the worn or damaged components and aligning the wheels can fix the problem and improve the safety of the vehicle.
In summary, the 1998 Jeep Cherokee has several common problems that can affect its performance, reliability, and safety. These problems are primarily related to the engine, transmission, electrical system, and suspension, and can lead to inconvenience, costly repairs, and even accidents if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these problems and ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
How many miles can a 1998 Jeep Cherokee last?
On average, owners report their Grand Cherokee going as far as 200,000 miles and sometimes even more. With so many miles you can have under your belt and the impressive Jeep Grand Cherokee gas mileage, the days of worrying about undertaking mile-intensive road trips are over.
What is the biggest problem with Jeep Cherokee?
Some of the most common problems with Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs include the following:
- Power Steering Failure: A vehicle's power steering system helps you maneuver your SUV, especially when turning or driving at low speeds. ...
- Engine Issues. ...
- Other Electrical System Problems. ...
- Safety Concerns.
What year did the Jeep Cherokee have problems?
While the fifth generation (2014-2020) of the Jeep Cherokee is known for its transmission problems, the 2014 and 2015 models are said to be the most problematic. These models suffer from stuck gears, poor throttle response, and rough coasting.
At what mileage do Jeep Cherokee start having problems?
According to bettenhausencdjr.com, a typical Jeep Grand Cherokee should make it to at least 200,000 miles before you see any indication of issues in the system. If you notice any trouble before this point, you may have picked a faulty year or might not be maintaining the car properly.
What is the biggest problem with Jeep Cherokee?
Some of the most common problems with Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs include the following:
- Power Steering Failure: A vehicle's power steering system helps you maneuver your SUV, especially when turning or driving at low speeds. ...
- Engine Issues. ...
- Other Electrical System Problems. ...
- Safety Concerns.
How many miles can a 1998 Jeep Cherokee last?
On average, owners report their Grand Cherokee going as far as 200,000 miles and sometimes even more. With so many miles you can have under your belt and the impressive Jeep Grand Cherokee gas mileage, the days of worrying about undertaking mile-intensive road trips are over.
What year is bad for Jeep Cherokee?
Cherokees from 2014 and 2015 are the vehicle's worst years. These have many recalls and complaints, most regarding critical powertrain components. The best years for the Jeep Cherokee include those from 2018 and 2020. These have fewer problems and have the highest owner ratings.
Is a 1998 Jeep Cherokee good on gas?
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Wheelbase: 105.9 inches Length: 177.2 inches Engine: 5.9-liter, 245-h.p. V-8 Transmission: 4-speed automatic EPA mileage: 13 m.p.g. city/17 m.p.g. highway Base price: $38,175.
1998 Jeep Cherokee complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Jeep Cherokee.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
1998 Jeep Cherokee recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 11 recalls for different components of the 1998 Jeep Cherokee.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- 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.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- 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.
- Manufacturer: U.S. DRIVE RIGHT
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: U.S. DRIVE RIGHT IS RECALLING 107 MY 1994-1998 RIGHT HAND DRIVE, 4-WHEEL DRIVE JEEP CHEROKEE VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 101, 'CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS;' NO. 108, 'LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT;' NO. 111, 'REARVIEW MIRROR;' NO. 114, 'THEFT PROTECTION;' NO. 115, 'VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER;' NO. 118, 'POWER WINDOW SYSTEM;' NO. 120, 'TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS;' NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION;' AND NO. 301, 'FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY.'
- Consequence: THESE VEHICLES DO NOT MEET THE REQUIRED STANDARDS.
- Remedy: U.S. DRIVE RIGHT WILL MAKE ALL THE REQUIRED MODIFICATIONS. A REPRESENTATIVE WILL TRAVEL TO THE CUSTOMER'S LOCATION AND MAKE THE MODIFICATIONS ON SITE. THE RECALL WILL BE PERFORMED ON A REGIONAL BASIS BEGINNING MARCH 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT U.S. DRIVE RIGHT AT 1-888-632-5936.
- Manufacturer: AJ MOTORSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- 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.
- Manufacturer: BRAKE PARTS, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- 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.
- Manufacturer: AIRTEX PRODUCTS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- 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.
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
- 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.
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. WATER AND/OR ROAD SALT IN THE PROXIMITY OF THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE COULD LEAD TO CORROSION.
- Consequence: SUCH CORROSION CAN LEAD TO ILLUMINATION OF THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT OR COULD ALLOW INADVERTENT DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAGS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE AND LOCATE THE NEW MODULE ON THE TOP OF THE TRANSMISSION TUNNEL.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE. THE FRONT SEAT BELT SHOULDER TURNING LOOP ANCHORS WERE NOT PROPERLY HEAT TREATED AND ARE NOT PROPERLY HARDENED.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE FRONT SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED INCREASING THE RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SEAT SHOULDER BELT TURNING LOOP ON THESE VEHICLES.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- 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.
Negative 1998 Jeep Cherokee car reviews
Positive 1998 Jeep Cherokee car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that your Jeep has been such a reliable vehicle for you! It's amazing that you've been able to put so many miles on it without any major issues. It sounds like you're a true Jeep enthusiast and I'm sure you'll continue to enjoy your Cherokee for many more miles to come!
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228500 mi and still going strong! Jeeps rule the earth, and all others try to follow.
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Best vehicle you'll ever drive! It's fun, powerful, and compact. According to my trip computer, I've averaged 19.2 mpg, even while pulling a camper and driving daily.
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Hi there! I bought this car with 55K miles on it and had to put a new clutch in shortly after due to the previous owner. It now has over 130K miles and I have to say, it's been more mechanically reliable than anything else on the road. However, the body is starting to rust pretty badly. One thing that all owners of this car know is that the rear leaf springs tend to sag over time, but luckily there are relatively cheap aftermarket fixes available :) It's getting a bit difficult to find factory parts for it though, due to Chrysler's recent troubles. Thanks for reading!
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At 75,000 miles, unfortunately, the A/C stopped working and the repairs were quite expensive. However, the gas mileage has remained stable at 17mpg since day one. On the bright side, the engine itself is truly amazing. The inline 6 is one of the most reliable engines I've ever owned and provides the car with more power than it needs.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Jeep Cherokee problems:
Top Common Engine Problems 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee SUV ...
May 18, 2021 ... For More Info visit us at: http://1aau.to/h/czd/ These are the top common engine problems for the Jeep Cherokee! This video features a ...
cherokee common problems - Jeep Cherokee Forum
Feb 2, 2010 ... Floorboards rust out, hatch struts don't hold the hatch up, rear main seal,oil filter housing leaks, driver's seat breaks, doors sag and creak, ...
Most common problems with 1997-2001 jeep Cherokee xj - YouTube
Nov 15, 2016 ... The most common problem I have found with the Cherokee Want some good tires check out treadwright http://www.treadwright.com/?afmc=f6.
1998 Jeep Cherokee Sport: Problems/maintenance help | Jeep ...
Sep 1, 2005 ... Can't help you there, though the problem seems common on '97-later XJs (I have a '96) that have any significant mileage. Hopefully someone else ...
1998 Jeep Cherokee Problems and Complaints - 14 Issues
Problem with your 1998 Jeep Cherokee? Our list of 14 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Jeep Cherokee.
Other years of Jeep Cherokee
Are you having problems with your 1998 Jeep Cherokee?
Rashawn Marks 2024-11-09
What's not to like about this car? It's beautiful, fun to drive, reliable, and has a spunky engine.
Trevor O'Kon 2024-10-17
Overall, it's a fun SUV to drive. However, the quality of the ride could be improved. The interior is basic with no perks, but it gets the job done. There is some wind noise once you exceed about 40-50 mph and the engine can be loud. If you're planning on taking long trips, you may find it uncomfortable to drive. The ride can be bumpy, so if you're looking for a smooth ride, this may not be the vehicle for you.
Titus Gulgowski 2024-09-07
Hi there! I just wanted to share that my 99 white ltd has been a reliable car for almost 4 years now. I did have to replace the front wheel bearings, but other than that, it's been pretty good. I've never had any issues with the engine. :)
Koby Denesik 2024-07-17
The car has held up pretty well! It was bought for the teenage kids and it lasted a good five years. While there were a few minor issues, such as needing to replace the radio, window regulator, and fog light switch, as well as occasional dashboard blanking and an A/C leak, overall it was a reliable car.
Desmond Monahan 2024-03-05
This is an excellent and inexpensive SUV with good resale value. While the gas mileage may not be the best, it is a reliable vehicle that won't leave you stranded. It also boasts the best 4WD I have ever driven. Although it is cheaply built with too much plastic inside, it is still a great choice. While it may rattle like a 10-year-old car, it is a minor issue. Overall, this SUV is a great option, with the only downside being the gas mileage, which is par for the course for any SUV.