I've been really thinking about getting a nice 4x4 older cherokee for winter months and something fun to mess around with. I've come across some descent ones but just want some thoughts from others. (what to look for, goods and bads, etc) typical buying used car thoughts. Best years, best price, best type etc

I've included a link to one i found at a dealer (not a huge fan of dealers) but it only has 90k miles for being a 2001. But I think they are asking way too much. Whats a good price for these years?

http://www.johnnyisautosales.com/det...PrefID=0&.aspx

here's another:
http://www.idealautosaleskc.com/2000..._218198781.veh

LAST ONE:
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-s...59424290&Log=0

 

It's hard to tell from pictures, so here are a few of my thoughts on this style jeep:

• Rust is a big issue with most jeeps of this style, they have a lot of seams and panels spot welded together as well as cavities in the floor area that are prone to gathering moisture and rusting. Once this sets in, it's just a matter of time before you have a big pile of iron oxide, that you used to call a jeep, sitting in your driveway. If I saw any paint bubbles on the outside or a complete coating of rust underneath, I'd pass on it.
• Look for leaks and body fill & pass if you see any.
• Look for signs of repainting & pass if you see any.
• Do a good inspection of the brakes, steering, and suspension.
• Engines from the earlier era - the in-line 4 liter in particular, are gas guzzlers. You really pay for it with highway driving.
• Electric gizmos: Most of the jeeps I've had the pleasure of working on or driving have electrical issues of one type or another. I'd stay away from anything that you can see has already been tampered with (look under the dash to see how much of a rats nest it has become from wiring changes). I'd also stay away from anything that's "all wheel drive" or "full time 4wd" as well as any electric shift t-cases etc.
• The simpler the configuration, the less money you'll end up pouring into it. If I could find a simply configured jeep with a good body and undercarriage, I'd even pay a bit extra for it (unless it was a 4.0, you'd need the "extra" for gas).
• If the truck was previously off-roaded, you'll see most, if not all the bad points show up really fast. Look for nuts & bolts underneath that might look like they could be seized. Suspension bolts and body mount bolts are usually bad for this - get the seller to take one off for you, if he won't, can't, or breaks it, don't buy it.