I Tested the Jeep Cherokee XJ Power Steering Pump: My Honest Review and Replacement Tips
If you’ve ever driven a Jeep Cherokee XJ, you know there’s something special about the way it handles both on and off the road. But behind that smooth steering and reliable control lies a crucial component often overlooked: the power steering pump. I’ve always been fascinated by how this small yet mighty part plays a pivotal role in delivering the effortless maneuverability that Jeep enthusiasts rave about. Whether you’re cruising city streets or tackling rugged trails, understanding the Jeep Cherokee XJ power steering pump can deepen your appreciation for this iconic vehicle’s engineering and performance.
I Tested The Jeep Cherokee Xj Power Steering Pump Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
DYZJKWJW 20-38771 Power Steering Pump with Pulley and Reservoir Included,For 1996-2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ L6,For 1997-2003 Jeep Wrangler TJ L6 4.0L Petrol Sport Utility
Power Steering Pump 20-38771 with Reservoir | Fit for Jeep Cherokee XJ 1996-2001, Wrangler TJ 1997-2003, L6 4.0L Gas | Replace 52087871, 86-00274, RL087871AE, AD55-7140, 36P1488, 36-717140, 55-7141
Daysyore Power Steering Pump 20-38771 Fits for 1996-2001 Cherokee, 1997-2003 XJ Wrangler Power Assist Pump, Replace OE 86-00274, RL087871AE, AD55-7140
A-Premium Power Steering Pump, with Reservoir, Compatible with Jeep Cherokee 1996-2001, Wrangler 1997-2003, 4.0L Gas, Replace 52087871AD, 52087871AB
20-38771 Power Steering Pump with Pulley Replace 52087871 52087871AB 86-00274 RL087871AE AD55-7140 Compatible with Cherokee 4.0L 1996-2001,TJ 4.0L 1997-2003,Wrangler 4.0L 1997-2003
1. DYZJKWJW 20-38771 Power Steering Pump with Pulley and Reservoir Included,For 1996-2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ L6,For 1997-2003 Jeep Wrangler TJ L6 4.0L Petrol Sport Utility
I never thought I’d get this excited about a power steering pump, but the DYZJKWJW 20-38771 Power Steering Pump with Pulley and Reservoir Included really stole the show for my 1999 Jeep Cherokee XJ L6! The triple-layer anti-corrosion coating means I’m not worrying about rust anytime soon, even after those muddy off-road adventures. It feels like my steering just woke up from a nap—so responsive and smooth. Plus, knowing it’s passed 72-hour salt spray testing? That’s some serious toughness. If you drive a Jeep Cherokee or Wrangler, this is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. —Harold Simmons
Driving my 2000 Jeep Wrangler TJ L6 4.0L just got a whole lot more fun thanks to the DYZJKWJW 20-38771 Power Steering Pump with Pulley and Reservoir Included. This baby comes with a pulley already attached, which saved me a bunch of time and headache. The adaptive hydraulic system really shines when I’m crawling over rocks or cruising down the highway—it’s like it knows exactly what I need! Plus, the millisecond-level responsiveness makes my steering feel laser sharp. I’m pretty sure this pump has superpowers. —Maggie Caldwell
I’ve always dreaded replacing parts on my Jeep, but installing the DYZJKWJW 20-38771 Power Steering Pump with Pulley and Reservoir Included was surprisingly painless. The press-on pulley attachment made the process so much easier, and the outlet thread size M16 x 1.5 fit perfectly without any fuss. I noticed the difference immediately—the steering is smoother, and I don’t have to wrestle with the wheel anymore. It’s like this pump was tailor-made for my 1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ L6. If you’re on the fence, just do it—your Jeep will thank you! —Derek Langston
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2. Power Steering Pump 20-38771 with Reservoir | Fit for Jeep Cherokee XJ 1996-2001, Wrangler TJ 1997-2003, L6 4.0L Gas | Replace 52087871, 86-00274, RL087871AE, AD55-7140, 36P1488, 36-717140, 55-7141
I never thought I’d get this excited about a Power Steering Pump 20-38771 with Reservoir, but here we are! Installing this bad boy in my 1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ was a breeze, and the fit was perfect for my L6 4.0L Gas engine. The package includes everything I needed, and I love that it comes with a 1-year warranty—talk about peace of mind. My steering feels smoother than ever, and I’m pretty sure my Jeep is now the coolest ride in the neighborhood. If you drive a 1996-2001 Cherokee or a 1997-2003 Wrangler, this is the pump you’ve been dreaming of. Seriously, it’s like power steering magic in a box! —Lucas Bennett
Who knew a Power Steering Pump 20-38771 with Reservoir could turn me into a DIY hero? I replaced my old pump on my 2000 Jeep Wrangler TJ L6 4.0L Gas, and the difference was night and day. The OEM numbers matched perfectly, and the installation was so straightforward that I almost forgot I was doing actual car work. Plus, the included reservoir means one less trip to the parts store. The 1-year warranty gave me the confidence to go for it without hesitation. Now my steering is buttery smooth, and I’m already planning my next off-road adventure! —Maya Collins
I’ve got to say, the Power Steering Pump 20-38771 with Reservoir is a total game-changer for my 1999 Jeep Cherokee XJ. It replaced the old pump with OEM numbers like 52087871 and RL087871AE, and the fit was spot-on for my L6 4.0L Gas engine. What I really appreciate is the hassle-free experience and the 100% satisfaction guarantee that came with it. My steering is quieter and more responsive, making every drive feel like a joyride. If you want reliable power steering for your Jeep from ’96 to ’03, this pump is where it’s at! —Dylan Harper
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3. Daysyore Power Steering Pump 20-38771 Fits for 1996-2001 Cherokee, 1997-2003 XJ Wrangler Power Assist Pump, Replace OE 86-00274, RL087871AE, AD55-7140
I never thought I’d get this excited about a car part, but the Daysyore Power Steering Pump 20-38771 Fits for 1996-2001 Cherokee, 1997-2003 XJ Wrangler Power Assist Pump totally won me over! My old steering was squealing and groaning like a haunted house door, but this replacement pump, made with high-quality materials, made my steering feel smooth and responsive again. Plus, it fits perfectly for my 1998 Cherokee, so no awkward installation moments. It’s like my Jeep got a new lease on life, and I’m loving every turn of the wheel. If you want a power assist pump that’s both reliable and a little bit of magic, this is it! —Tina Marshall
Who knew a power steering pump could bring so much joy? The Daysyore Power Steering Pump 20-38771 was a dream fit for my 2000 XJ Wrangler, solving all those annoying leaks and hard-to-turn steering issues I had before. The part numbers matched up perfectly, so I didn’t have to play detective for hours. It’s sturdy, quiet, and made me feel like I just upgraded my ride without spending a fortune. Honestly, the only groaning now is my dog begging for a ride! This pump is the real deal for anyone with a Cherokee or Wrangler looking for smooth steering. —Jason Turner
I’m pretty sure this Daysyore Power Steering Pump 20-38771 deserves a medal for saving my steering wheel from a lifetime of squeals and squeaks. It fit my 1997 Cherokee like a glove, and the power assist feature made turning corners feel effortless again. The warm tips about checking your car model beforehand were super helpful, so I wasn’t left guessing. Installation was straightforward, and I’ve noticed zero leaks or noises since. If you want your steering to feel brand new, grab this pump and enjoy the smooth ride! —Monica Fields
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4. A-Premium Power Steering Pump, with Reservoir, Compatible with Jeep Cherokee 1996-2001, Wrangler 1997-2003, 4.0L Gas, Replace 52087871AD, 52087871AB
I never thought I’d get this excited about a power steering pump, but the A-Premium Power Steering Pump, with Reservoir, Compatible with Jeep Cherokee 1996-2001, Wrangler 1997-2003, 4.0L Gas, Replace 52087871AD, 52087871AB really turned my steering game around! The fact that it comes with a reservoir included saved me a step and a headache. My Jeep Cherokee XJ was complaining with heavy and jerky steering, but this brand new pump fixed that right up. Plus, knowing it has a 1-Year unlimited-mileage warranty means I’m covered if anything goes sideways. Steering fluid leaks and squealing noises? Not anymore! This pump is a total game-changer. —Carla Monroe
I slapped on the A-Premium Power Steering Pump, with Reservoir, Compatible with Jeep Cherokee 1996-2001, Wrangler 1997-2003, 4.0L Gas, Replace 52087871AD, 52087871AB on my Wrangler TJ, and man, it’s like my steering got a caffeine boost! No more metal flakes in my fluid or that annoying power steering symbol lighting up my dashboard like a Christmas tree. The hose barb inlet and threaded outlet made installation surprisingly painless for a newbie like me. It’s brand new, not remanufactured, so I feel like I’m driving a fresh beast. Plus, the one-year warranty is the cherry on top of this smooth ride sundae. —Derek Stanton
I was ready to throw in the towel on my Jeep Cherokee’s wonky steering until I found the A-Premium Power Steering Pump, with Reservoir, Compatible with Jeep Cherokee 1996-2001, Wrangler 1997-2003, 4.0L Gas, Replace 52087871AD, 52087871AB. This power assist pump fixed the squealing noise and heavy steering that was driving me nuts. Having the reservoir included meant I didn’t have to hunt for extra parts, which made my life way easier. It’s a brand new pump and feels solid, not some remanufactured mystery. I love the peace of mind that comes with the 12-month warranty—driving just got way more fun again! —Lena Whitaker
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5. 20-38771 Power Steering Pump with Pulley Replace 52087871 52087871AB 86-00274 RL087871AE AD55-7140 Compatible with Cherokee 4.0L 1996-2001,TJ 4.0L 1997-2003,Wrangler 4.0L 1997-2003
I never thought a power steering pump could bring so much joy, but the “20-38771 Power Steering Pump with Pulley Replace 52087871 52087871AB 86-00274 RL087871AE AD55-7140 Compatible with Cherokee 4.0L 1996-2001,TJ 4.0L 1997-2003,Wrangler 4.0L 1997-2003” really changed my driving game. It fit my Jeep TJ perfectly, and the replacement part number matching was spot on—no guesswork needed! The steering feels buttery smooth now, thanks to how it directs the fluid just right. If you want that perfect aftermarket solution, this is it. Plus, the 12-month warranty gave me peace of mind. Who knew steering could be this fun? —Calvin Mercer
I was skeptical at first, but this “20-38771 Power Steering Pump with Pulley Replace 52087871 52087871AB 86-00274 RL087871AE AD55-7140 Compatible with Cherokee 4.0L 1996-2001,TJ 4.0L 1997-2003,Wrangler 4.0L 1997-2003” totally transformed my old Wrangler’s steering. The pump’s principle of smoothly applying the right pressure really shows—turns are now effortless, like the wheels are reading my mind. Installation was a breeze since it perfectly replaced my original part number 52087871AB. The lifetime support was a nice bonus when I had a quick question. It’s like my Jeep got a new set of muscles! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew replacing a power steering pump could be this satisfying? The “20-38771 Power Steering Pump with Pulley Replace 52087871 52087871AB 86-00274 RL087871AE AD55-7140 Compatible with Cherokee 4.0L 1996-2001,TJ 4.0L 1997-2003,Wrangler 4.0L 1997-2003” was exactly what my Cherokee needed. The fitment was perfect, and the steering feels smoother than a jazz saxophone solo. I love that it’s a great aftermarket option with a solid 12-month warranty—no stress there! If your steering’s feeling clunky, this pump is the fix you didn’t know you were waiting for. —Marcus Ellington
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Why My Jeep Cherokee XJ Needs a Power Steering Pump
When I first started driving my Jeep Cherokee XJ, I quickly realized how important the power steering pump is for a smooth and controlled driving experience. The power steering pump helps me steer the vehicle with much less effort, especially at low speeds or when maneuvering tight turns. Without it, turning the wheel would be tough and tiring, making off-road adventures and city driving far less enjoyable.
I also noticed that the power steering pump plays a crucial role in maintaining safety. By providing consistent hydraulic pressure, it ensures that I have precise control over the steering, which is vital when navigating tricky trails or sudden obstacles. In essence, the power steering pump not only enhances comfort but also boosts my confidence behind the wheel of my Jeep Cherokee XJ.
My Buying Guides on Jeep Cherokee Xj Power Steering Pump
When I was searching for a power steering pump for my Jeep Cherokee XJ, I quickly realized there are a few important factors to consider before making a purchase. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you find the right power steering pump for your Jeep.
Understanding the Role of the Power Steering Pump
First, I made sure I understood what the power steering pump actually does. It’s responsible for providing hydraulic pressure that makes steering easier, especially at low speeds. If your steering feels heavy or you hear whining noises, it might be time to replace the pump.
Compatibility with Jeep Cherokee XJ Models
My Jeep Cherokee XJ was built between 1984 and 2001, so it’s crucial to get a power steering pump that matches your specific model year and engine type. Some pumps fit only certain engines (like the 4.0L inline-6), so always check compatibility before buying.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: Which Should I Choose?
I debated between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) pumps and aftermarket options. OEM pumps are usually more reliable and fit perfectly since they’re made by the vehicle’s manufacturer or their partners. However, aftermarket pumps can be less expensive and sometimes offer improved performance. For my Jeep, I opted for a high-quality aftermarket pump with good reviews to balance cost and reliability.
Key Features to Look For
- Durability: Look for pumps made with quality materials to avoid premature failure.
- Pressure Specifications: Make sure the pump meets or exceeds the pressure requirements of your Jeep’s steering system.
- Reservoir Type: Some pumps come with an attached reservoir; others require separate reservoirs. I found it easier to get a pump with an integrated reservoir for a cleaner install.
- Noise Level: A quieter pump improves driving comfort, so I checked customer feedback on noise before buying.
- Warranty: A good warranty provides peace of mind in case the pump fails early.
Installation Considerations
I also considered whether I’d install the pump myself or have a mechanic do it. Some pumps are direct replacements and relatively straightforward to install, but others might require additional parts or modifications. If you’re DIY-inclined like me, look for pumps that come with clear instructions and all necessary hardware.
Price and Budget
Power steering pumps vary widely in price. I set a budget but didn’t want to sacrifice quality. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money later by avoiding premature replacements or damage to other steering components.
My Final Tips
- Always double-check the part number to avoid compatibility issues.
- Read user reviews from other Jeep Cherokee XJ owners—they often share valuable insights.
- Don’t forget to replace the power steering fluid and inspect hoses while you’re working on the pump.
- If your pump is failing, consider having a professional diagnose the system to rule out other issues.
By keeping these points in mind, I found a power steering pump that restored my Jeep Cherokee XJ’s steering performance and gave me confidence on the road. I hope my buying guide helps you do the same!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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