2008 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee: common problems and MOT failures

What goes wrong more than usual on a 2008 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee?

Parts flagged at MOT more often on the 2008 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee than on all cars registered in 2008.

• Ball joint2.2× usual
  Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee

  13.5% All 2008 cars

  6.2%

  Failed outright at MOT: 6.4%, against 3.2% of all 2008 cars. The rest were advisories or minor defects.

  Rough price £60–£150 (one joint) ClickMechanic

  At the viewing: Listen for knocking over bumps and check the rubber boots behind the wheels aren't split.

Common 2008 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee MOT failures and advisories

The share of 2008 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.

• Suspension
  47% 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.

• Brakes
  33% 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.

• Lights and electrics
  31% of testsRough price £10–£80

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

• Oil and fluid leaks
  21% 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.

• Tyres
  19% of testsRough price £70–£150

  At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.

• Wipers, windscreen and mirrors
  15% of testsRough price £15–£250

  At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.

Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2008 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee

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

1. Any recent work on the ball joint? (Flagged at MOT 2.2× as often on the 2008 Chrysler-Jeep Cherokee as on other cars the same age.)
2. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?