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Looking at 2006 WK

2K views 4 replies 4 participants last post by  dmsfun 
#1 ·
Hello,

I am looking at purchasing a 2006 Grand Cherokee 4X4 with the 5.7l Hemi. Are there any common "problems" I should look for during the test drive? This is from a dealer and I would like them to repair potential or common problems.

Thanks ahead of time for your responses.
 
#2 ·
Look at the bushings in the front suspension, especially the rear one on the lower A-arm. Also listen and feel for any harshness shifting from reverse to drive, thats probably front diff bushings. Make sure the trans fluid looks good when warm (bright pink) and drive at low highway speeds (45-55mph) to feel for solid torque converter clutch engagement. Also listen for differential whine when coasting down from ~65mph. Feel for any pulsing in the brakes as the stock rotors tend to warp. Make sure the cruise works. Check the coolant level and look around the water pump for signs of weeping. Also look at the a/c service points. If there is dye present, the system is probably developing a leak that won't be fun to fix. Make sure the 3rd brake light works. Also get in a dark area and check all the lights in the interior buttons and controls, they burn out a lot. Run it through a carwash and see if the a-pillar leaks.

Sorry for the brainstorm. These things are really well designed and built vehicles, most of what I listed is just wear/maintenance. Ive bought two used wk's and this is the kind of stuff i've run into, hope it helps!
 
#4 ·
I recently picked up a 05 with a Hemi and did the following right away:

- Upper and Lower Ball Joints
- Fixed broke exhaust manifold bolts
- Replaced EGR
- Replaced PCV
- Replaced all plugs
- Replaced e-brake pads
- Changed transfer case fluid
- Changed front and rear differential fluid

Of course mine has 120,000 miles so most of that is routine maintence and is not out of the ordinary. I also get a slight clunk from shifting from park to reverse so I am sure the front differential bushings need to be replaced.
 
#5 ·
Get the repair and service history from the dealer; leaking trans cooler lines are common as are broken front diff mounts; both costy to repair. Shocks wear out quickly, as do sway bar end links and bushings. If the diff's whine, move on as it is not worth the cost for repairs. IF you buy it, first thing to do is clean the TB and put on a catch can, or even better, replace the TB with a MM CNC ported 85 mm TB; wakes up the Hemi much more than any intake or exhaust, and improves mpg.
 
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