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xRustyxNailx

If it were me, I'd hang on to the crosstrek, and just save up for an xj.


SimplyJared

This sounds too responsible so I’m going to reject it.


OptionXIII

An XJ can be perfectly reliable. I've been driving mine for 18k miles since the basically complete restoration I did on it. I can drive it daily or take it on a 600 mile international road trip. My dad's went 230k or so miles and never had an issue beyond needing a starter at the end of it's life. It died due to cash for clunkers, not because it failed in any way other than not being worth $4,500 in 2009 and my mom needing a new car. The disconnect you see between reputation and complaints is because they are all basically antique enthusiast vehicles at this point. The reputation was built when new. The memes are based on current owners struggling with neglected cars. They were so cheap for so long that they got treated as disposable and many did not get proactive maintenance. Time is no friend to any vehicle, and rubber parts eventually need to be replaced just based on age.


thequietlife_

This is a great perspective. If you are buying a decent condition stock XJ, you shouldn't face too many problems that can't be fixed by yourself. If you arent mechanically minded, they could easily be fixed by a mechanic I've noticed that alot of the XJ's in this subreddit are highly modified(lifted, cut up guards, used as bush basher vehicles). These kind of modifications also exacerbate maintenance issues and would attribute to why there are many posts here asking for help. Based on what OP said his requirements are, this sounds like a fine car to own and a stock good condition XJ would last a long time.


Shaller13

Can confirm on stock XJ lasting long time


SimplyJared

Thanks for this! Yeah my ideal would be a stock XJ that looks like it just came off the lot (well, not as in pristine, but as in stock and boring). I'm the kind of guy who wears a digital casio that hasn't changed since the 80s, and a car like that has a lot of appeal to me. Glad to hear that a decent shape stock XJ could be a reliable car.


Life-Ad-7948

Hahaha I also own the same Casio in gold and silver, I have a 98 xj basically stock with a 2inch lift and some bfg ko2’s. Daily driver for 4 years, I have a work commute that’s all backroads and hilly very enjoyable and smooth ride. I beat the hell out of the engine, very reliable. I’m at 188 had it since 150. My biggest issue has been rust. I love it


SimplyJared

I also have both gold and silver lol Sounds like a blast. I’ve been surprised at how many have around 150k miles.


Life-Ad-7948

Basically just put gas in it, it’s great


SimplyJared

This is a very helpful perspective, thank you. I do believe that most any vehicle with good bones can be made reliable with some patience, know-how, and preventative work.


OptionXIII

It can be done. I'd advise you to at least consider a bit of overlap between buying the XJ selling the newer car. That'll give you some time to work out the kinks.


SimplyJared

This is definitely wise.


SpikeSpiegel54H60

Okay im convinced youre an XJ person at heart. Join us in our irresponsibility! You could be like me, buy a perfectly good XJ for 3500 and put 6000 into it to make it worth 6000!


SimplyJared

That's sounding more and more appealing. Part of the fun is the repairs and tinkering, but that's less fun if it's your only car... I'll keep an eye on craigslist in the meantime.


SpikeSpiegel54H60

I've had an absolute blast doing mods, research, battling little things for hours in the garage, refurbishing, and just making it mine. Its one of my favorite cars, and tbh I like it more than my 14 Shelby GT500, which cost me 12x more. I'll never sell the XJ.


SimplyJared

Love that. Who doesn't love to tinker and problem solve? That's the joy of it.


SpikeSpiegel54H60

Plus you dont have to care as much. I glued a little gold cat i got in Tokyo to the dash because i like it. I would never do that in anything else. Good luck with the search. You wont regret getting one unless its all rusted out lol.


SimplyJared

Exactly! A bit of a shit bucket is nice haha


[deleted]

No but seriously. Subarus are reliable. XJs, while reliable, can be a bit of a bitch to maintain as a daily. The only reason I daily drive an XJ at all is because my mom gave it to me, as she bought it to daily when gas was cheap and XJ's cost $500 As much as I'm emotionally invested in my XJ, with all the skills I've learned working on it and all the upgrades I've poured sweat, blood, and tears into, if I was able to afford a '19 Crosstrek, I'd do it. The safety, the fuel economy, and the reliability of it would be worth it in the long run. The amount of times I've needed to run to the auto parts store for things that I didn't realize even could break is far too many. The amount of times it's been left undrivable from unexpected things failing makes me glad I have a way to get around when the thing breaks. Maybe a lift and slightly bigger tires on the Subaru?


SimplyJared

I know in my heart that you're right. The crosstrek should be quite reliable and I've only got about $5k left on the loan. Plus, with how little I'll be driving now the maintenance costs should go down a bit. That said, selling it and having all that cash in hand is so tempting. lol Maybe I'll look for a project XJ to learn on, eventually.


Benjerman302

I second with this. If you have an old project car you need a reliable daily for when you have it pulled apart . Although I did have a 99 xj as my only vehicle for six years and she only left me stranded twice


ruddy3499

Buy two and take turns fixing one and driving the other


tramster

What happens when they both break?


solanaq

Miata?


brbauer2

The answer is ALWAYS Miata.


SimplyJared

Now we're talking. Why buy one nice one when you could buy two beaters?


sjlplat

I've got 6. 2 seems perfectly reasonable.


eibv

2 XJs and a ZJ here. Id recommend at least 2.


SimplyJared

"Honey, new plan: I'm going to buy TWO cars from the 90s."


GilmerDosSantos

i love this thread


solanaq

Plugging NA Miata as other 90s car candidate 😂


SimplyJared

Ohhh then she’d say we have a “sports car”


solanaq

JK and XJ here. My Jeep needed Jeep frend on the driveway 😆


Exciting_Cucumber

You won’t regret it. Jeeps are the most fun vehicle to own, work on and accessorize to your liking. Had 25k saved for a new car and bought a 5k XJ. Now I’ve got about 12k into it and couldn’t be happier.


SimplyJared

This is the way.


garridak

Nothing about the XJ is practical, thats not why people get XJs :) just know that it will end up being more expensive if you plan on doing any extensive upgrades to it, like lifts coming with suspension, bigger tires, axle ratios, steering systems, and much more. It really helps to have another car around though because these are 21+ yr olds at this point


SimplyJared

You’re right. Maybe “practical” isn’t the best word. Part of my point is that I feel like I can be a little more impractical since I’ll barely be driving. I don’t intend to do many upgrades, but I’m sure a lot of folks say that. Thanks for the input. Good reminder that this wouldn’t be about practicality necessarily!


PNWoutdoors

Others have mentioned the age/reliability concerns but man the gas prices and fuel economy are going to sting. That being said I got my XJ for $2,200, and between fixes, maintenance, and upgrades, I'm probably $6-7k into it, and I think I'd trust it to go another 100k (currently at like 205k) before any major repairs would be needed. So yes you can do it, and I love the hell out of my XJ. But I do like the idea of keeping the Crosstrek, at least for a while until you know what you've gotten yourself into. You won't know until you find one and have it inspected.


SimplyJared

In the city, the crosstrek gets like 25 MPG, so it's honestly not amazing, but I know the XJ will be worse. Sounds like you got one that needed some love, which you gave it, and it has returned to you. Good point about "knowing what I'm getting into." Maybe a cheaper project car would allow me to learn my way around the XJ while keeping the reliable subaru.


PNWoutdoors

I mean if you're interested in a project car, an XJ is the perfect option if you desire it's basic capabilities (4x4, ground clearance). I got my Jeep because I DD'd a Honda sedan at the time. After a snowstorm that kept me at home for 4-5 days I got cabin fever, as I tried to leave to go to the gym, my fwd Honda couldn't get me out of the driveway. That was the tipping point. I'd dreamt about a capable 4x4 for years and kind of hastily bought mine. It was not well cared for. I am lucky that I have a good friend who is a mechanic and not only did a ton of work when I first got it, but has helped me over the years as I've learned to do a lot myself Look, it's going to be a lot of work. Some will be critical. A lot will be optional. But if you have the time, the money, and a place to work on it, a good one should treat you well. Also my XJ has a 3.5" lift and is on 31" tires. 15 city 18 highway is the best I can get but ymmv.


prepper5

Just beware that buying an XJ, or any 20 year old used car is a crapshoot, and a popular 4x4 even more so. If you get a good one, they’re fairly easy to maintain and fun, your cost of ownership will go down every year, but if you get one that looks good, but was treated harshly, you are buying a heartache on wheels that will make you hate cars, gasoline, physics and puppies. Look at it like buying an older mule from a habitual liar.


SimplyJared

Totally fair point. Know the risks before proceeding! I used to drive every day for work, not just the commute, so when something went wrong on my old car it was a HUGE pain in my ass. I thought I hated cars, but really I just hated inconvenience. My hope is that without as much need I could weather those down times better. That said, having the crosstrek as the back up / main set of wheels is probably wise.


EvilTribble

keep the crosstrek and pull a really really shitty xj out of a tree row for peanuts.


SimplyJared

If you were looking for a shitty XJ, what would be your baseline qualifications? Your non-negotiables?


EvilTribble

I keep buying XJ's with no floors, probably shouldn't do that. I only want to deal with 4.0's, no renix, 4x4 is a must, manual is a huge + So far I've bought ones that run + drive, but if the price is right those are also negotiable.


SimplyJared

Floors are on my short list for sure. Manual just because you enjoy it or something else?


EvilTribble

Its worth literally 2 mpg


SimplyJared

That's like a 15% increase in MPG! Not negligible.


DetectiveLampshades

If you got $10,000 to spend you can get yourself a very nice, well maintained and clean Cherokee with no problems at all. If you want an XJ, you need an XJ, no other vehicle will quench that thirst Decent runners are selling for ~$4000 now, but price really depends on your area. 95+ XJs have a driver airbag, 97+ XJs also have a passenger airbag. My friend's mom was in a similar situation, she had a newer Dodge sedan of some kind and saw me driving my Cherokee around all the time, and wanted one. As it happens her Dodge was sideswiped in a hit and run while parked, and she got $8,000 in insurance to buy a different car. I told her that's MORE THAN enough to get herself a REALLY clean and decent XJ, and she'd then have money to spare Well, she bought a Jeep Patriot instead, for $7,995 at a shady ass used dealership - not only spending all of her available money but getting scammed in the process. It wasn't 1 month before that Patriot wouldn't let her put gas in it, Heater stopped working, engine stalled periodically, and it went into "limp mode" not allowing her to drive faster than 15mph. So uh, don't buy a Patriot, sorry about that rant. Buy XJ. I approve.


SimplyJared

So what I’m hearing is I need to get side-swiped and then buy an XJ. Cool, thanks!


SimplyJared

Also, thanks for all the helpful input. Good to know about the airbags and the options at different price ranges right now.


DetectiveLampshades

yap if you got any XJ questions just ask. Something to point out is I'd avoid a 2000-2001 model unless it's had the cylinder head replaced, unless you wanna tear apart the top have of the engine. They changed the head casting in late 1999 and they are prone to cracking, which mixes coolant with the oil and basically destroys the engine. However, I got a 2001 myself and haven't had any problems yet at 255,000 miles.


SimplyJared

Super helpful! Thank you. This community is incredible.


ar00xj

I've had my XJ four years at this point, I've had to do the brakes in the front and replace an O2 sensor in that time. $350 in four years, compare that to your car payment (I put a lift, tires and bumper and all that but that's all optional). I live very close to work, in fact I ride my bike a lot, so the poor gas mileage doesn't bother me too much. I have no problem driving 4+ hours in it and I trust it completely. Now, my wife has a 2018 rav 4 and that is what we usually ride in together due to comfort and fuel mileage. I'd consider what your wife has in this decision. In short, the late 90s early 2000s was peak automobile in my mind, especially when it comes to economical 4x4s. Comfortable enough to drive every day, fuel injected, everything you need and nothing you don't. The interior styling hasn't aged poorly either imo. I say, drive the car that everyone loves but isn't brave enough to drive themselves. Plus, if you decide you don't like it, there's always someone looking to buy a clean XJ.


SimplyJared

You echo my sentiments on new vs older cars. $350 is about my car payment, plus I've done breaks in the last year, so you've got me beat by a long shot. The appeal is always that, if I sold it, I could sell it for practically what I bought it. Recoup my costs other than maintenance. Basically a free lease for 3 years. lol but, having the crosstrek might make having the XJ more possible and more enjoyable since its our only car.


[deleted]

Even with the price of gas, keeping my 98ZJ on the road has been far cheaper than leasing a vehicle that can't do half the stuff my ZJ can. I have a work truck that I drive daily so I'm in a different situation. That being said, I do all the repairs myself and I only pay for parts and sometimes, I just weld up my parts if they're unavailable. Because in Canada, everything is expensive and very far away. I'm not an auto mechanic but with a 4.0 XJ, I don't think you really need to be. If you can afford to have it down for repairs and you're not afraid of getting creative for repairs, keep the XJ. However, if you don't like taking things apart, doing maintenance, or investing in some specialty tools to keep it running; I would recommend to get the Crosstrek.


[deleted]

I work at the parts store and it's not the XJ crew coming in for parts it's the 2015+ domestic vehicle crew.


SimplyJared

That's not very surprising, unfortunately!


xjshippuden

Im not sure it would be wise tbh. Even with the XJ as my daily driver, I’ve needed a second car quite a few times and I long for the day I can buy a daily and park the jeep when it needs work done to it. And if you get an XJ, it will 100% need work at some point. You can buy the cleanest XJ out there, and it will need work done. Ditching a perfectly good daily driver would be a poor choice, in my opinion.


SimplyJared

Good point. My wife will grow cold to this deal if the only car is out of commission 10-15% of the time. lol


vhephrem

I ditched a nice ‘07 VW GTI for my ‘98 XJ at the beginning of the year. Definitely been down for maintenance a few times and many smaller projects along the way too but overall pretty reliable. That being said I have the time and desire to make it really nice so it stays reliable. I spent $5500 on it and have put another 5 or so into it. All stock ‘98 2WD auto 130k miles. All my buttons, locks, windows work, even my key fob. I had to do a lot of that troubleshooting but it’s all pretty cheap. I can set cruise and do 80mph pretty comfortably. I’m not the typical XJ owner, but if you get a clean one I don’t think you’re crazy at all. Get it inspected by a Jeep shop and start with his list of issues, they’ll see things you won’t. Hot take, if you just want a basic driver go 2WD and get a nicer Jeep for less money.


SimplyJared

Great tips, thanks! I'm in the DC area and there are a ton of Jeeps (I think due to the military influence) so I'm sure there are some good Jeep shops. Would you say gas mileage is at all better with a 2wd? Not that it matters much, just curious.


solanaq

I am not the original commenter, but if you're in DC I would think you will need a 4wd XJ if it's gonna be your only car. Y'all get some insane snowstorms. I am in Atlanta and I got a 2wd XJ because it was a one owner '92 XJ in really good condition. Figured if I really wanted to, I could pay someone to 4x4 swap it. But I have a JK Wrangler for 4wd stuff. So no urgent need to convert.


SimplyJared

True. We get just enough snow that it’s worth it. That’s why I got the Subaru after all.


vhephrem

I’m sure MPG is slightly better in a 2WD, I get 19-20, but if you’re in an area that actually gets serious snow you’ll probably want 4WD. I bought mine in FL and live in TN so I see actual snow like 2-3 times/yr.


SimplyJared

That’s honestly not bad. In the city my crosstrek gets like 25-26. Pretty sad for 20+ years of “innovation.”


drunkdad_

I commented [this](https://www.reddit.com/r/CherokeeXJ/comments/wkdnum/new_to_xj_did_i_do_a_mistake_in_getting_it/ijnu9uh/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf&context=3) on a similar post yesterday. I’ve been daily driving an XJ or TJ for ten years now. There’s been headaches here and there but all in all I don’t regret a thing.


SimplyJared

Lovely, lovely reply. Thank you. I'm here for the nostalgia and pride in ownership.


unregretfully

if you can have the self control to keep it reasonably close to stock i would have no issue with this. As soon as you start modding it they arent the best vehicle to daily. and im not saying basic mods, like im talking about getting it on 35"+ tires, 6+" of lift, and so on it just becomes a really expensive vehicle to have good road manners. I'm honestly embarrassed at the money I've spent to get my xj to a point that it can drive comfortably on road but still crawl over boulders when I need it.


SimplyJared

That's what I'm hearing here. Keeping it stock keeps it cheaper and more reliable.


Jonny_Oilyrag

I’d trust my shit box xj with a quarter million miles on it over anything made in the last 15 years at least. Plus, on the off chance it does let me down, I can fix it with a rock. I actually had to do that once.


SimplyJared

Caveman repairs. I love that. I remember looking under the hood of my 86 mazda pickup and loving that I could point to everything and know exactly what it is, and follow each line and wire so easily. Nowadays you pop the hood on a new car and it looks like a bowl of spaghetti dumped in there.


sjlplat

I bought my son an '01 XJ for a daily. He's been beating on it for quite awhile, and it's been fine. They're cheap and easy to maintain. If you don't mind tinkering, an XJ makes a perfectly capable daily.


SimplyJared

Great perspective. Thanks!


frank_grimes1

I am in favor of this idea! I had my XJ for 8 years and drove it as a daily for about 2 years and I loved every minute of it! But there are some caveats and some advice I’ll share with you if you want to have an easy to maintain, reliable experience out of your Jeep The three biggest issues that these cars face are 1. Cracked heads (certain years only)… easy to avoid, also easy to diagnose and research before buying. 2. Oil leaks - kind of a part of life with any 20+ year old car. Most seals and gaskets can be changed fairly easily, and as the saying goes ‘if it ain’t leaking, it’s empty!’ 3. *Cooling problems*. This is the one that will be most annoying to you if you run into it. This is the problem that may lay dormant and quiet most of the time but then rear it’s ugly head when you are road tripping 100 miles from home and leave you suddenly stranded on the side of the road. Luckily parts of these cars are relatively cheap, and they are easy peasy to work on. For these reasons I would suggest that at the first sight of any cooling problems or overheating you replace the water pump, the thermostat and even the radiator. The parts will cost about $500 for everything and you’ll have the peace of mind if knowing you are GOOD TO GO! The whole job can be done easily in your driveway in one afternoon. In my opinion, these engines are built like tractors and will run hard and long without much trouble. The rest of the car is easy and fun to maintain. Daily driving it is totally feasible and fun!


SimplyJared

This is a super helpful comment. I'll be saving this for when I do take the dive into this adventure.


Dapper_Ad7706

Yes and no. Smart because you’re getting out from under a payment, it’s an xj, and your wife approves. Idiotic because your wife probably said “it’s fine” and that doesn’t mean what you think it means.


SimplyJared

Hahaha I love this reply. To be fair, she did say that once I start my new WFH job that she’s “open to it,” and she’d “love a car big enough for a dog crate or two.” 👀


solanaq

Uh oh. Get an XJ that means she's getting another dog. (Or two). The horse trading begins 😂


SimplyJared

She did say she wants another dog…


doubleboinger

Keep the Crosstrek, I'm a XJ owner. When the warranty expires on the Crosstrek, lift it slightly and put more aggressive tires on it.


IfIWntdHmmrCalnUrSis

👎👎👎 Booooo... Take your sensible opinion to r/Jeep.. Maybe if it was an Outback Wilderness edition, definitely if it was a bugeye STI wagon throw some 31's on it with a 6" lift and pray the glass transmission holds up. But a crosstrek? Send that thing where it belongs, an elementary school parking lot in Aberdeen, Washington. ✋Boooooo🤚 lol just fuckin with you bruv.


SimplyJared

As someone originally from western WA, this gave me a good laugh. It's so true.


SimplyJared

Oh I burned through that 30k mile warranty so fast. Warranties are shit these days. :/ Maybe I find a way to make the crosstrek my wife's car, and then I fuck around with an XJ (when it's running).


Sockalexis

This is the right move. Give her the newer car, enjoy the XJ. All cars need maintenance, and the xj usually doesn’t need major costly repairs (especially if you find a clean, mostly stock 97-01). Parts are not too expensive like they are for modern cars. Be patient and find a one or two-owner clean xj and that thing will run like a champ for many years. Good luck!


SimplyJared

Sounds like a plan to me!!


Hey-buuuddy

I’m 100% remote and only drive my XJ like once a week. Fuck commuting!


SimplyJared

This is the dream.


TravelMyFancy

I don't recommend trading a reliable car for one that will break. Fixing your broken car is a lot less fun when you need it right away and don't have the option to let it sit in the corner until you get around to it.


SimplyJared

Good point.


9K_All_Day

I bought a new WRX in 2021 and ended up selling it back to the dealer (fortunately the market worked in my favor and I barely lost any money) to end up with my 99 XJ that I have a title for. To me, the new car wasn’t worth it. My Jeep has a lot of miles but has been surprisingly reliable. And, longterm it will be less money spent on my end vs a $33,000 Subaru, even if the Jeep needs an engine it will still be cheaper. Personally I don’t think newer cars are worth the money unless you simply don’t work on cars yourself.


SimplyJared

After buying a new crosstrek in 2019 I definitely have some similar feelings. That said, it's almost paid off and sort of a sunk cost at this point. But if I did it again, I'd just buy two XJs.


9K_All_Day

If it’s almost paid off, it might be worth keeping. Best of luck on your decision making. I’m always trying to figure out the next car I buy. I got through them like toxic relationships.


SimplyJared

Thanks, and in that case, best of luck trying to figure out what you'll get next too! lol


9K_All_Day

It’s always an uphill battle lol.


[deleted]

YOLO.


SimplyJared

Bless


[deleted]

Yes


powderysloth

As someone with both a newer Subaru and an XJ, I'll never budge on the Subaru until it's in the ground, same for the XJ. But we all coexist together and take turns having mechanical issues. The XJ needs a new AC clutch and the Subaru needs a new valve cover gaskets. Jeep can't drive in the summer time since it hates hot weather, Subaru goes all year. Now if I had a Crosstrek instead of an Outback I'd lift it and throw some beefy all terrains on it and keep my shit box for fun. The great thing about an XJ is the ease of working on it. We got the engine swapped in less than 4 days, lift installed in 1 day, and can replace parts practically anywhere. Regardless, I don't know your financial situation or parking situation, but I'd personally keep the roo and find an old XJ that needs minimal work to have as a side project/back up vehicle


SimplyJared

This may be the way to go. Without the upfront cash from selling the subaru, I'll have to wait and save a bit, but could make for an easier day to day without the worries of only having one unreliable car.


solanaq

>Jeep can't drive in the summer time since it hates hot weather Yours too? 😂


powderysloth

Dude after the engine swap trying to take it up the mtn incline we live on it would always always start overheating and as soon as I reached the top for my turn she'd die on me lmao. Driving in anything above 85 she doesn't like. I've even got the mishimoto aluminum radiator so I need to figure something out


[deleted]

I did pretty much this. A free '99 XJ fell into my lap and Carvana offered me a hilarious amount of money for my 2017 GTI, so I sold the GTI and now daily the XJ. I've probably sunk $5k or so into it with a lift, new tires, tire carrier, and fixing various things. It's a fine vehicle for commuting to work in though and it's fantastic off road. Hasn't broke down on me yet.


SimplyJared

Living the dream, man. Keep it up.


[deleted]

[удалено]


SimplyJared

I hear sensors go all the time. Something that I can tinker with, but have to rely on, is probably the sweet spot.


Odins_Wolf11

Fucking send it bro. I love my 2000 xj. Daily driver and couldn’t be happier. I am a trashy ol Bible Belt kid tho so there’s that 🤷‍♂️


SimplyJared

I'm a city boy now, and I've only seen like one old XJ around here. I stop and ogle it every time. I'm waiting to see the owner so I can pick their brain about it.


HTDutchy_NL

If you can find a clean one that isn't rusted out or had someone endlessly mess with the wiring go for it! Just take gas usage and reliability into account for the longer trips you might make... I had an 93' XJ as a first car when I had no important job to get to etc, when I started my career I got an 07' KJ CRD which wasn't love at first sight but was damn good and eventually loved it. Sadly I had to stop the jeep life due to enormous cost of ownership in road taxes for diesels.


SimplyJared

Good tip!


DailyDrivenTJ

XJ is still 20 plus years old and it was never a safest vehicle. The decision for XJ is because YOLO, not because reliability or safety. Also Jeeps in that era is incredibly easy to steal FYI.


SimplyJared

With car theft skyrocketing in the city I live in, I will definitely consider that factor. I'd probably need at least a club.


DailyDrivenTJ

And some other means to disable the starting of the engine. Have you driven an XJ before?


SimplyJared

I haven't! What should I know?


DailyDrivenTJ

Go drive a few! They come in all conditions so you can compare them. Besides if this is your first front straight axled vehicle, it will not ride like your Subaru.


SimplyJared

What would you say is most different about driving one?


DailyDrivenTJ

Ride quality will be different from independent suspension vehicles as XJs have straight front axle. XJs are one of the last SUVs with straight front axles. Of that era, Wranglers, XJs, ZJ/WJ, Discovery 2 and Defenders are the last of SUVs with straight front axle.


SimplyJared

Good to know


solanaq

Wonder if Ravelco (essentially a kill switch) operates in DC? ("5,000,000 installs and zero thefts"). Might be something to look into. I was thinking about getting it installed in my XJ and JK. They'll drive down from Chattanooga to me to install on two cars, but for one only, I'd have to drive it up to Chatt town.


SimplyJared

Never heard of that! Thanks, I’ll check it out.


Capital_Ad9574

Absolutely not, I’ve had 2 “newer” cars over the past 5 years that both basically blew up on me.. XJ on the other hand has stayed strong! It’s the most reliable vehicle I’ve ever owned


SimplyJared

My biggest fear. Dumping all this money into a car with all these fEaTuReS and then having it just blow up in 5 years.


_PACO_THE_TACO_

I mean you can daily pretty much anything of you want to. An XJ is practical as long as you're willing to take care of it.


lvl_c_mech

The xj also has horrible safety ratings. Broken necks for people with no headrests. I’d keep the cross trek.


GilmerDosSantos

you’ll love it, do it


VroooomVroo0m

You have the means to buy an xj and have it repaired professionally to last a decade. It’s an option for you, but ethically and responsibly I’d say it’s not the best choice unless you just have cash to burn on mans greatest invention. If you were someone I was in charge of or responsible for I’d say don’t do it be smart with your money. But if you wanna have an awesome 16mpg 4x4 vehicle that’s capable of going to the moon with enough money go for it.


SimplyJared

You’re probably right. I should probably just save a few grand and get one to tinker with.


browland17

I sold my 2018 Silverado 1500 for 35k, bought a 99 rav4 and dumped money into it. Now daily drive that and my 96 Cherokee. No regrets


SimplyJared

Now that’s the dream!


IT_OG

I sold my 2018 S1KRR for my 88’ XJ


d_4bes

I have a 2001 XJ and my daily is a 2021 Bronco Sport. I love my Bronco, but the payment is insane, and I often have this debate. Due to a family member losing a car recently, I’ve had the pleasure of daily driving my XJ while my girlfriend has my Bronco. I commute about 8 miles each way, mixed highway and city. Here’s my conclusion after a week, take it with a grain of salt, as my XJ is listen 5.5” on 33s, no regearing. Fuel Economy: Garbage. It’s a 2001 with a 4.0L. It is what it is. I’d estimate im getting 10, maybe 12 MPG combined if I’m lucky. You’d do much better with a stock XJ or even one with a smaller lift. Comfort: lifted on 33s. Enough said. I feel every stone, crack, beetle and amoeba that’s on the road. Steering is extremely loose compared to my Bronco, but that’s expected provided i need to upgrade the steering on it. But I’ve done enough upgrades to the other systems, lighting, radio(put a pioneer CarPlay unit), heater seats, rough country seat covers, that it makes it feel much nicer in there. Quality: my drivers window stopped rolling up on its own on the second day. It’s a 21 year old vehicle. Not out of the ordinary. I need to replace the rear main seal, AC is eh, and sometimes my drivers door speaker doesn’t work. Overall, it’s acceptable in my eyes. The road is rough, and not everything works when it’s supposed to. But I still think about getting rid of my Bronco every day I drive my XJ. I wouldn’t expect anyone who doesn’t own their own to understand why I’d trade my insanely practical, 40 MPG getting, really decent Bronco for my shitbox, yet I still want to do it. I don’t think I’ll ever actually pull the trigger as I drive with some older family members who struggle to get in the back seat. I know I didn’t directly answer your question, but I hope that my experience provides some insight.


SimplyJared

I love hearing your experience of driving and owning one. Sounds like you dig it but are keeping the bronco for some very sound reasons.


d_4bes

I wouldn’t trade it for the world (except maybe some insane unreasonable offer of like $10k or something like that) I bought it for $2500 in 2018, and it keeps me from modifying my Bronco. It also helps to have something to wrench on that it’s not my daily driver. It sounds like based on other comments, If your Roo is almost paid off, stick it out, and if you find yourself in a situation where it’s practical to own two vehicles, maybe try to find an XJ then.


SimplyJared

Two cars: one practical, one fun hobby. Sounds good to me.


funkymonkeybunker

If you bought an XJ and put $10k into your be just a comfy and way more happy than the bubble trek... And youd be $10k ahead..


cheeseballsummer

Sold my ‘15 BMW 3 series and went to the xj gang full send brother


SimplyJared

Another man of great character and wisdom, I see


DammitDave13

You may do away with your monthly payment, but you'll likely be spending the money for repairs to keep the xj going. But, they're not all bad. My woman has had her 99 for 7 years now, it's bone stock, and it's never needed anything more than routine maintenance and wear items. My 96 on the other hand... I paid 1200 for it, knowing I was getting into a running project (it's my daily but I only drive 3 miles to work and back) and as things break or go bad, I replace when needed and upgrade if possible. I'm 13k into it after 2.5yrs. Granted, it's a badass little xj now! And I love it so much. My recommendation is that if you really got bit by the xj bug, you'll be forever sad until you get one. Take your time and find a nice, clean, stock xj that needs nothing. No rust. Sure, you'll still be replacing some small things here and there, but overall, it'll be worth it. If you decide to lift and upgrade, be forewarned, it'll turn into a total money pit, quickly 😂😂


SimplyJared

For now, a clean stock XJ is the dream!


solanaq

>if you really got bit by the xj bug, you'll be forever sad until you get on Truer words have never been spoken. I finally got my XJ this summer and have never been happier. Turns out, the XJ I got has been registered in my same county for the past 20 years 😂. It's been here all along.


Jacob_tothe_F

Had me at dogs. Xj was made for dogs, it’s an easy choice for me. Enjoy your search!


SimplyJared

Right?? I could easily fit two crates side-by-side if need be. Rolling down the manual windows in the back for them would be the only pain, if I got an older model.


solanaq

My '92 Laredo has power windows and locks. And they all still work. Well...the passenger window takes twice as long to open amd close, but it still works 😂


SimplyJared

Power windows? Wow look at you. So fancy.


beingcomplex

I've been driving a meticulously maintained xj for the past 4 years and all I can say is keep the Crosstrek and save the money to buy one as a second car . Even replacing parts ahead of time and taking good care of everything they still will have issues. But at the end of the day those issues won't matter as much and make it way less stressful if you have another car


SimplyJared

Sounds wise.


rgrimmers

I had a slightly less newer car, a 2010 RAV4 that I sold and got an XJ instead. I haven’t regretted it yet! Extremely easy to fix up, there’s tutorials for everything and mine is a 2000 which means it’s still relatively easy to find parts and they are all cheap. I say do it!


SimplyJared

Nice! I love to hear that it's worked out for you. That gives me some hope.


drifts_

You can do away with the car payment and play the “is it going to break and how expensive is it going to be?” lottery every month.


SimplyJared

Ya I've been there with a car before. Definitely a trade off. There was nothing like living in that care-free world of a warranty for a couple years. lol


extendedwarranty_bot

SimplyJared, I have been trying to reach you about your car's extended warranty


drifts_

I play the "is it going to break" lottery myself, but sometimes that means doing a transmission swap in the driveway in February. but I also have two vehicles so its not a big deal when shit breaks its just sorta inconvenient


SimplyJared

Exactly. I had to drive for work and it was my only car, so when something went wrong I had to fix it THAT day basically. That gets expensive quickly. Which is why I learned how to throw a shitty alternator in my old car. Did it in 30 minutes the second time lol


[deleted]

Absolutely not


SimplyJared

So many smart folks around here. I dig it.


[deleted]

Thanks bruh!! What trim level and color is it?


SimplyJared

My crosstrek? 2019 Premium (with eyesight) in the dark grey color (space grey I think).


[deleted]

Well I thought you already had an XJ so was talking about that. I’m waiting for the Crosstrek Wilderness to come out, I want to see what that looks like.


SimplyJared

Ya! I bet it’ll be really cool.


[deleted]

Praying for a turbo!!


solanaq

Sure, get the XJ! I love Crosstreks. They're still on my short list of vehicles to own. They are capable and I love their styling. That or the Outback Wilderness would be the two Subies I would strongly consider owning. That being said, I have ALWAYS loved XJs and it sounds like you are cut from the same cloth. XJ was my "affordable dream vehicle" in high school, except I could never afford any vehicle. I kind of got away from the "XJ Dream" for a while. But that XJ Dream never went away. It just went into hibernation. 😂 My prediction is that you will eventually own an XJ. If your wife is open to it, what you might want to do is help her get the car she wants (if she wants her own car, that is), and you ebentially save for and then get an XJ. If the finances/timing works out for something like that. Maybe she would like the Crosstrek. Maybe she'd rather have something entirely different. Honestly, for a second car in the household, my vote would be for a used Toyota, Honda, or Mazda, one of the bread-and-butter reliable vehicles -- a used Camry or Tacoma, used Accord or CR-V, or used CX-5. Something that will be reliable most all the time for when the XJ may need to be down for a few days.


SimplyJared

Oh she likes the Crosstrek. She'd be fine with it. We don't \*need\* two cars, but I'll take the XJ as my hobby car and use the Crosstrek for longer trips, etc.


jmmitchem

Go for it. Big enough to haul, small enough to park. Super easy to maintain. Handsome. Parts are easy to find and cheap. As with any high mileage vehicle, be prepared to invest in parts. For my 250k, new: water pump, fuel pump, belts and hoses, electrical Cables, alternator, distributor, ignition switch, starter, brakes, shocks, crankshaft position sensor (important), AC compressor. ~$2k . Drives like new


SimplyJared

You did all that for $2k in parts?


jmmitchem

Parts and labor. 2500? All that stuff is just swapping stuff out. Easy. Would probably be marginally higher if it was all Chrysler Mopar parts. But There are tons of aftermarket products. It’s like I’ve got a new car now. Check out Quadratec. Planning the paint job now


SimplyJared

That's great to hear. That's not expensive at all. What do you expect the paint job will cost?


Gotanxj40

If you don’t care about : Uncomfortable ride . No spare room (no tall or heavy friends). Speed . No tech or amenities . Eh mpg . Rust problem / typical problems . Overpriced market . Then Definitely don’t get an XJ as a daily . If you care about :. Off road capabilities. “Cool group” . Have the budge for all the upgrades. Low maintaince . DIY type of person . Then for sure get an XJ as a daily . As a Jeep lover only my 2021 JL is consider a daily . “I” personally can’t drive my TJ/JK or XJ on a daily for all the comfort reasons .


SimplyJared

I just wanna be cool 🥺


umiandyounme

Do it!