Market Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer/TrailBlazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover Discovery.
Platform Heritage:
Based on the Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W163) platform, offering improved on-road refinement and handling compared to its predecessor.
Powertrain Options:
Available with robust inline-6 and V8 engine options, coupled with capable 4WD systems.
Design Philosophy:
Blended classic Jeep ruggedness with increased comfort, luxury, and modern styling.
Engine Service:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, repair of all engine variants, including timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, and emissions control.
Transmission Service:
Detailed procedures for automatic transmissions (e.g., 42RE, 45RFE, 545RFE), including removal, installation, overhaul, hydraulic control, and electronic diagnostics.
Drivetrain Service:
Front and rear axle service, NV242/NV247 transfer case operation and repair, propeller shaft maintenance, CV joints, and differentials.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., Quadra-Coil), steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake component repair, hydraulic system diagnostics, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component location, power distribution, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, and diagnostics.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.
Body And Interior:
Door mechanisms, glass, trim, seating systems, dashboard, and exterior body panel repair and alignment.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Systematic troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation, and guided diagnostic steps for various systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners, critical for ensuring proper assembly and preventing damage.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, color-coded wiring schematics for all electrical circuits.
Technical Depth:
Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine Option 1:
4.0L Inline-6 (PowerTech)
Displacement 1:
3952 cc (242 cubic inches)
Horsepower 1:
190-195 hp @ 4600 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Torque 1:
235-235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Fuel System 1:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Engine Block Material 1:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material 1:
Aluminum
Valvetrain 1:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 12 valves
Engine Option 2:
4.7L V8 (Magnum)
Displacement 2:
4701 cc (287 cubic inches)
Horsepower 2:
220-235 hp @ 4700-4800 rpm (varies by year and tune)
Torque 2:
280-325 lb-ft @ 3200-3400 rpm (varies by year and tune)
Fuel System 2:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Engine Block Material 2:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material 2:
Aluminum
Valvetrain 2:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 16 valves (2 per cylinder)
Engine Option 3:
4.7L High Output V8 (Magnum)
Horsepower 3:
255 hp @ 5200 rpm (later models)
Torque 3:
325 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm (later models)
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic
Standard Transmission Model:
42RE (for 4.0L)
Optional Transmission Model:
45RFE / 545RFE (for 4.7L V8, 5-speed capability introduced later)
Transfer Case Options:
Part-time Command-Trac (NV242), Full-time Selec-Trac (NV242), Full-time Quadra-Trac II (NV247) with optional electronic limited-slip differential.
Transmission Fluid Spec 42Re:
ATF+3 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Spec 45Rfe 545Rfe:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
4-star (1999-2000 models), 5-star (2001-2004 models)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
4-star (1999-2000 models), 5-star (2001-2004 models)
IIHS Frontal Offset Crash:
Good (varies by year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (4-wheel disc brakes)
Traction Control:
Optional
Airbags Standard:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Optional:
Available side-impact airbags (later models)
Rollover Protection:
Internal reinforcement and sway control systems.
Audio System Options:
Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player, and optional Infinity Gold premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer.
Navigation System:
Optional factory navigation system available on select higher trims.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park assist sensors available on some models.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were widely available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on usage and fluid type.
Engine Oil Spec 4.0L:
SAE 10W-30 (API SG or higher). Check manual for specific Mopar recommendation.
Engine Oil Spec 4.7L:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (depending on year and climate). Check manual for specific Mopar recommendation.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Pink Coolant or equivalent.
Common Issue 1:
Cracked cylinder heads on early 4.7L V8 engines (due to thermal stress).
Common Issue 2:
Leaking transmission cooler lines (especially the front ones).
Common Issue 3:
Worn front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings) due to weight and usage.
Common Issue 4:
HVAC blower motor failures.
Common Issue 5:
Water pump failures, especially on the 4.7L V8.
Brand Origin:
Jeep, a brand with a long history of rugged, off-road capable vehicles dating back to WWII.
Generation Name:
Second Generation Grand Cherokee (WJ)
Introduction Year:
1998 for the 1999 model year
Major Updates:
Significant redesign from the ZJ generation, introduction of the 4.7L V8, improved interior comfort and materials, and more sophisticated AWD systems.
Manufacturing Location:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA
