All vehicles need periodic tune-ups, and a Jeep Grand Cherokee is no exception. In fact, a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee needs maintenance on a regular basis, due to its age and mileage. There are quite a few steps involved in tuning up your Jeep. If you want to have the satisfaction of doing it yourself, here is how you can save money by performing your own tune-up.
Change your spark plugs. Spark plugs become corroded over time and do not work as well. Purchase new spark plugs made specifically for your 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee. These can be found at most automotive-parts stores, and come with a variety of qualities. You can get less expensive spark plugs that will do the job fine, or opt for more expensive brands with special attributes such as gold or platinum, which last longer. You will need to gap your spark plugs: Purchase a gap tool and consult your owner's manual to correctly gap the gauge. Use a lubricant to help remove the old spark plugs.
Change your air filter. A new air filter helps your engine run better and increases your horsepower and acceleration, since it will not be clogged with debris like the old one. When you visit the parts store, mention the year, make and model of your car to ensure you get the correct filter. The 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokees had engines of various liter sizes, so determine which you have before choosing an air filter.
Change the oil in your Jeep. Purchase at least 5 quarts of it, and have an oil pan handy to collect your used oil. Take the used oil to an automotive store where it can be recycled. Discarding used oil is illegal and environmentally unsafe to do on your own. You can also take the used oil filter to be recycled.
Replace the fuel filter by purchasing a new one at an automotive store. The fuel filter will include all of the needed clamps and hoses; as with the spark plugs, you will need to inform the cashier that you own a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee so he can get you a fuel filter of the correct size. You will also need to know the size of your engine.
Check the brake-fluid levels. The brake fluid is located in a small tank on top of the master cylinder. Remove the cap and observe the level and consistency of the fluid. Make sure it is amber in color and dirt-free. If your brake-fluid-level light is on, you will need to purchase brake fluid and refill the reservoir.
Check your battery and cables. Look for corrosion on the battery-cable ends, and brush off any rust or dried fluids with a wire brush. Tighten the connection between the cables and battery to make sure your Jeep will start properly.
