The 1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ remains a standout choice for drivers who value rugged capability and straightforward mechanics. Often praised for its blend of on-road comfort and trail-ready confidence, this generation of the Cherokee helped define the modern compact SUV segment.
If you are evaluating a 98 XJ for daily driving, weekend adventures, or as a parts platform, understanding its core strengths, common upgrades, and ownership considerations will help you make confident decisions. The following sections break down key features, mechanical highlights, trim comparisons, and real-world questions from actual owners.
1998 Cherokee XJ Core Snapshot
A quick reference table highlights what sets the 1998 model year apart in terms of powertrain options, drivetrain layouts, and key comfort and safety features.
| Category | Specification | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model Year | 1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ | Compact SUV, available in Sport, Limited, and XJ Renegade trims | Distinct styling and off-road focus |
| Engine Options | 4.0L I6 | 210 hp / 265 lb-ft torque, praised for reliability and low-end torque | Strong all-rounder for daily and light off-road use |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4 | 150 hp / 165 lb-ft, lean-burn design | Lighter but less refined under load |
| Drivetrain | Select-Trac (part-time 4WD) | Shift-on-the-fly transfer case with manual front locking hub | Requires driver engagement for 4WD |
| Suspension | Front & Rear Solid Axles | Leaf springs in rear, independent front coilover design | Ideal for off-road durability, with aftermarket lift support |
| Interior Features | U-Connect Radio, Cloth Upholstery | Limited models include upgraded audio, power accessories | Spartan but functional and easy to maintain |
| Safety | Standard Equipment | Dual front airbags, ABS on four wheels, seat belt pretensioners | Basic by modern standards, but effective for its class |
Engine Performance and Drivetrain Dynamics
Under the hood, the 1998 Cherokee XJ offered buyers a choice between a dependable inline-six and a more frugal four-cylinder. The 4.0L inline-six became the favorite among enthusiasts because it delivered smooth power, strong torque at low RPM, and a reputation for lasting well beyond 200,000 miles with basic maintenance. Its cable-operated throttle and straightforward design made tuning and repairs accessible for home mechanics and small shops alike.
For buyers who prioritized fuel economy over towing and high-speed overtaking, the 2.5L four-cylinder provided an alternative that lowered purchase price and insurance costs. However, this engine required more frequent revving to make progress on highways and could feel strained when climbing long grades with a full load. The Select-Trac part-time four-wheel-drive system paired with either engine gave the 98 XJ confident gravel and mud traction, though drivers needed to remember to shift into 4WD manually and disengage before returning to two-wheel drive.
On-Road and Off-Road Balance
On pavement, the Cherokee rode with a composed, planted feel, absorbing moderate road chatter while maintaining good steering clarity. Off-road, the solid front and rear axles combined with generous ground clearance allowed the 98 XJ to tackle rutted trails, creek crossings, and uneven terrain that would unsettle softer unibody SUVs. Owners who added lift kits and larger tires further expanded capability, though such modifications required attention to drivetrain angles, steering components, and potential warranty considerations.
Trim Levels and Feature Differentiation
The 1998 model year presented clear choices between value-oriented trims and more comfort-focused variants. The base Sport trim focused on function, offering manual windows, basic cloth seating, and minimal sound insulation, which kept the price attractive for budget-conscious buyers. The mid-level XJ Renegade added bold graphics, skid plates, and upgraded shocks, appealing to those who wanted a more adventurous visual presence without jumping to the highest trim.
At the top, the Limited trim emphasized passenger comfort and convenience, introducing premium cloth, enhanced sound deadening, and available power features such as power windows and a tilt steering wheel. While the Limited still maintained the rugged axle setup of the XJ line, its interior appointments made highway cruising noticeably more pleasant. When comparing trims, buyers often found that the Limited’s added comfort features justified the higher price, especially for daily drivers, whereas the Renegade and base Sport represented smart, cost-effective choices for trail-focused users.
Ownership Costs and Long-Term Reliability
Maintenance schedules for the 1998 Cherokee XJ align with general Jeep recommendations of regular oil changes, fluid checks, and filter replacements, but their simplicity also means that many owners perform basic services themselves. Parts remain widely available through both original equipment and third-party suppliers, and pricing for common components such as ball joints, tie rods, and brake pads is comparable to other domestic SUVs of the era. This parts ecosystem, combined with a strong aftermarket support for lifts, tires, and skid plates, helps keep ownership costs predictable over the long term.
Reliability reports from high-mileage examples show that the 4.0L inline-six, when serviced consistently, can provide hundreds of thousands of miles of service with occasional rebuilds rather than premature replacements. The transfer case and manual hubs require periodic fluid service and inspection of seals, especially for vehicles that regularly encounter wet or muddy conditions. By staying on top of belts, hoses, and suspension components, owners frequently report that their 98 XJ delivers dependable, characterful driving year after year.
Common Modifications and Practical Upgrades
Enthusiasts commonly enhance their 1998 Cherokee XJ to address noise, improve traction, and increase articulation for more serious off-roading. Popular modifications include all-terrain or mud-terrain tires, which add grip at the cost of some road refinement, and skid plates that protect vulnerable undercarriage components on rocky trails. Suspension upgrades, such as lift kits and upgraded shock absorbers, improve ground clearance and axle control, while careful attention to steering and drivetrain angles helps maintain stability and component longevity.
Inside the cabin, owners often add modern conveniences such as auxiliary audio inputs, upgraded speaker systems, and enhanced lighting for night trail use. Simple safety upgrades, including seat belt reminders and additional dash-mounted camera systems for tight trail maneuvers, are also popular. When planning modifications, it is wise to consider how each change affects warranty coverage, alignment settings, and overall handling characteristics to ensure that the 98 XJ remains balanced for both street and trail.
Key Takeaways for 1998 Cherokee XJ Buyers
- The 4.0L inline-six is a durable, torque-rich powertrain well suited for both on-road and off-road use.
- Select-Trac part-time 4WD provides capable traction when drivers manually manage engagement and disengagement.
- Trim levels range from value-oriented Sport to comfort-focused Limited, allowing buyers to match features to budget.
- Long-term reliability and low ownership costs are supported by widespread parts availability and simple mechanics.
- Targeted modifications, such as skid plates, all-terrain tires, and suspension upgrades, can enhance durability and capability.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is the 4.0L inline-six engine in the 1998 Cherokee reliable for daily driving?
Yes, the 4.0L inline-six is widely regarded as a robust and reliable engine for daily driving, provided it receives regular oil changes, fluid maintenance, and timely attention to any unusual noises or warning lights.
How does the Select-Trac part-time 4WD perform in muddy or snowy conditions?
Select-Trac delivers confident traction in muddy and snowy conditions when drivers manually engage four-wheel drive, but it requires proper technique and momentum, and it is not intended for high-speed on-road 4WD use.
Are aftermarket lift kits easy to install on a 1998 XJ, and do they affect handling?
Aftermarket lift kits are commonly available and relatively straightforward to install for the 98 XJ, but they do alter suspension geometry; careful installation and periodic alignment checks help preserve handling and tire wear characteristics.
What are the most common wear items to watch for on high-mileage 1998 Cherokee XJs?
On high-mileage examples, owners typically watch for worn bushings, tie rod ends, ball joints, brake pads, and transfer case seals, all of which are serviceable items that benefit from regular inspections.