Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)
Initial Launch Year:
1998
Key Competitors 1998:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner
Body Style:
2-door and 4-door SUV configurations
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and part-time four-wheel drive (4WD)
Body Construction:
Body-on-frame construction for ruggedness and towing capability
Towing Capacity Focus:
Emphasis on towing and hauling capabilities
Engine Mechanical:
V8, V6 engine repair, overhaul, diagnostics
Engine Performance:
Fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system repair and diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission repair, overhaul, fluid specifications
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, torque converter service
Drivetrain Transfer Case:
Four-wheel drive system repair, transfer case service, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, repair, fluid specifications, ABS system
Electrical System Powertrain:
Engine Control Module (ECM), powertrain diagnostics
Electrical System Chassis:
Chassis electrical components, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, interior trim, doors, windows, seats
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnostics and repair, refrigerant specifications
Exhaust System:
Exhaust system inspection, repair, catalytic converter service
Wheels And Tires:
Tire pressure, rotation, wheel alignment, lug nut torque specifications
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step procedures for component removal and installation
Cleaning Reinstalling:
Procedures for cleaning and reassembling components
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements
Repair:
Detailed repair instructions for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and troubleshooting guides for common issues
Specifications:
Critical torque values, clearances, and measurements
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Mechanics
Knowledge Level:
Requires basic knowledge of electrical and mechanical concepts
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls
Base Engine:
3.9L Magnum V6
Base Engine Power:
175 hp @ 4800 rpm (approximate)
Base Engine Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approximate)
Optional Engine:
5.2L Magnum V8
Optional Engine Power:
230 hp @ 4800 rpm (approximate)
Optional Engine Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil packs
Wheelbase:
Approximately 117.7 inches
Length:
Approximately 189.4 inches
Width:
Approximately 73.3 inches
Height:
Approximately 65.8 inches
Curb Weight Range:
4,300 - 4,800 lbs (approximate, depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Around 5,800 - 6,200 lbs (approximate)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not explicitly rated for 1998 model year; typically 3 or 4 star for SUVs of this era.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not explicitly rated for 1998 model year; typically 3 or 4 star for SUVs of this era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available/standard on some trims
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific oil type and viscosity.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles or as per tire manufacturer recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual: likely SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for V6 and SAE 10W-30 for V8. Check API service classification.
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
ATF+4 (or equivalent) is generally recommended for Chrysler/Dodge transmissions of this era. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Refer to manual for GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil specification.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Refer to manual for specific type and mixture ratio.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Ignition System Issues:
Spark plug blow-out (common on Magnum engines), coil pack failures.
Transmission Issues:
Slipping, harsh shifting, internal component wear in automatic transmissions.
Suspension Issues:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings due to vehicle weight and usage.
Electrical Issues:
Chafed wiring harnesses, faulty power window motors, interior electrical gremlins.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cracked exhaust manifolds, particularly on the V8 engines, leading to ticking noises.
