I'm looking to get a first time driver a Jeep (happy birthday), and most likely a TJ since my budget is 8000. I was wondering what type of mileage I could get out of it since most of the TJ's i'm looking at already have 130-160K mileage on it. These jeeps are way under the budget I would just like to know if I am only going to get a couple of 10k out of it or if it will last me 200K plus. So lets hear about your mileage. Thanks.

 

Working in auto repair I'd just look for one from the south. TJ's without rust belt issues should be good for 250K + without any major problems IF properly maintained...Im in NC now, from MI, worked at shops in both states.

 

Without sounding dumb....what do I look for to indicated rust belt issue? Is it in engine belt? I might know what your talking about but just to be sure.

Unfortunately I need to get an Auto.

 

I have a 2000 5 speed I'm trying to move (although not really motivated) for $8500 in Houston.

Similar situation, bought for son who can't figure out "shift".

 

Have you checked Craigslist? A quick search down here in SC returned several under 100k miles and at or below your budget.

 

I tried some TJs before buying the JK. Based on that experience, this seems like an opportunity to learn a stick unless there is a physical disability that requires auto.

I taught both my kidz to drive a stick. They were very grateful after they realized any stick driver can drive an auto, but not visa-versa. Son learned in an old Volvo, daughter in an old Chev pickup.

Edit: I got sidetracked. I've always heard the 4.0 drivetrain is good for 200K.

 

The 2.4L 4 cylinders were fine if you had a manual and it was geared well. I had a 99 TJ with 33" TSL radials and 4.88 gears. The power was adequate. I was not happy with the auto I had in my 06 LJ with the 4.0L engine, 3.73 gears, and 30" BFG ATs.

Look for rust holes in the frame and body mounts. The transfer case skid/cross-member uses capture nuts in the frame. The bolts like to rust to these nuts and they will most likely break free and spin forcing you to cut off the bolts and weld in new nuts. This will only matter if you ever need to remove the skid for a lift or drivetrain repair.

Ran my 99 for 97K miles with only replacing the radiator. No problems with my 06 but it only had 57K miles when I traded it in.

 

I didn't even think of Craigslist! How could I have missed that.

I don't think any mods or regearing are going to be done to it since it mostly will be a Jeep with 130+ on it plus I'm not she is going to be interested in OR.

Most of the Jeeps that have turn up are 4.0.

 

Thanks, everyone have been extremely helpful.

 

The Inline Six is a great engine. I live in the rust belt and here's the tally on the inline 6's of my family.

1989 Cherokee Pioneer - 289,000 miles and sold.
1995 Cherokee Country - (heavily bashed by me) 180,000 miles when I got the 4.7 stroker.
1996 Cherokee Country - 155,000 miles, sold to my cousin who had about 200+k miles when she wrecked it.
2001 Cherokee Sport - (wheeled lightly by me) traded it in at 65,000 miles.

All were in pristine shape with NO rust at all. Just wash it weekly. I know they are cherokees, but just showing you what you can get engine-wise.