2001 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee diesel: common problems and MOT failures

What goes wrong more than usual on a 2001 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee diesel?

Parts flagged at MOT more often on the 2001 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee diesel than on all cars registered in 2001.

• Engine oil leaks2.3× usual
  Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee

  36.6% All 2001 cars

  15.9%

  Failed outright at MOT: 2.1%, against 0.4% of all 2001 cars. The rest were advisories or minor defects.

  Rough price £80–£600 our estimate

  At the viewing: Look under the engine and where the car is usually parked for fresh oil. Ask whether the leak has been looked at.

Common 2001 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee diesel MOT failures and advisories

The share of 2001 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee diesel MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.

• Brakes
  48% of testsRough price £150–£350

  At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.

• Oil and fluid leaks
  42% of testsRough price £80–£600

  At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.

• Suspension
  39% of testsRough price £120–£400

  At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.

• Lights and electrics
  39% of testsRough price £10–£80

  At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.

• Rust and bodywork
  21% of testsRough price £150–£1,000

  At the viewing: Check the sills, wheel arches and underneath for rust, and look along the panels for uneven gaps or paint.

• Exhaust and emissions
  17% of testsRough price £100–£1,200

  At the viewing: Look for black soot in the tailpipe, listen for blowing from the exhaust and check for engine or DPF warning lights.

Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2001 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee diesel

Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.

1. Any recent work on the engine oil leaks? (Flagged at MOT 2.3× as often on the 2001 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee diesel as on other cars the same age.)
2. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?