🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Year:

1995

Chassis Code:

XJ/YJ

Generation Identifier:

Second Generation (XJ Facelift)

Engine Codes:

2.5L I4 (AMC 150), 4.0L I6 (AMC 242)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) in 1995 was a highly regarded compact SUV, known for its off-road capability, robust construction, and the iconic inline-six engine. It appealed to buyers seeking a practical, durable vehicle for both daily driving and adventurous pursuits.

Segment Dominance:

The Cherokee XJ was a dominant force in the compact SUV segment for much of its production run, lauded for its Jeep heritage and unique combination of capabilities.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and Chevrolet Blazer. The Cherokee's unibody construction, legendary inline-six engine, and Jeep's established off-road pedigree gave it a distinct advantage in certain market segments.

Key Features:

Legendary 4.0L inline-six engine (optional), Command-Trac and Selec-Trac 4WD systems, comfortable ride for its class, excellent off-road performance, durable unibody construction.

Powertrain Durability:

The 4.0L 'Six-Pack' inline-six engine is renowned for its durability and longevity, often exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. This manual provides the keys to maintaining that longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive repair, maintenance, diagnosis, and troubleshooting for all major systems.

Vin Decoder:

Likely includes information to decode the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to confirm specific vehicle options and build details.

Page Count:

Unknown (estimated 1000+ pages for a factory service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Delivery Method:

Instant download, no shipping or physical media required.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Fuel System, SFI System, Emission Control Systems, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drive Shaft, Driveline, Steering System, Brake System, Suspension (Front & Rear), Electrical System, Body Repair, HVAC System, Audio & Visual System, Safety Systems (Airbag, Seat Belts), Wiper & Washer System, Lighting System.

Specific Systems:

Drive Belt, Charging System, Horn, Parking Brake Cable, Wiper And Washer System, Fuel System, SFI System, Steering System, Roof Antenna Pole Sub-Assy, Sun Roof, Heater Radiator Assy, Emission Control Systems, Hood, Front Stabilizer Bar, Outer Rear View Mirror Assy, Front Marker Lamp Assy, Skid Control Sensor, Wiper Rubber, Transmission Control Cable, Radio Receiver Assy, Seat Belt, Thermostat, Radiator Assy, Cigarette Lighter Assy, Rear Seat Belt, Fuel Tank, Spiral Cable Sub-Assy, Valve Clearance, Instrument Panel, Brake Master Cylinder, Wiring Diagrams, Yaw Rate Sensor, Brake System, Window Defogger System, Cylinder Block Assy, Body Repair, Floor Shift Parking Lock Cable, Center Stop Lamp Assy, Clutch System, Front Door, Cylinder Head, Power Steering, Washer Nozzle, Speed Sensor Front, Seat Belt Warning System, Center Cluster Module Switch, Front Seat Belt, Power Mirror Control System, Air Conditioning Amplifier Assy, Front Suspension System, Exhaust Pipe, Brake Pedal, Front Brake, Rear Suspension System, Front Drive Shaft, Front Suspension, Rear Wheel Alignment, Shift & Select Lever Shaft, Horn Button Assy, Exhaust, Rear Door Glass Weatherstrip, Air Conditioning System, Fuel Pump, Wheel And Tire System, Starter Assy, Rear Wiper Rubber, Wiper & Washer, Front Bumper, Audio & Visual System, Rear Door Window Frame Moulding, Knock Sensor, Amplifier Antenna Assy, Inner Rear View Mirror Assy, Rear Door, Seat, Rear Speaker Assy, Differential Case Assy, Oil Filter, Windshield Glass, Brake Actuator, Engine Control System, Rear Brake, Front Differential Oil Seal, Transmission Valve Body, Windshield Wiper Switch Assy, Rear Axle Hub, Engine Coolant, Pulley Compressor Assy, Heater & Air Conditioner, Clutch Master Cylinder Assy, Front Speaker Assy, Cylinder Head Assy, Back Door Glass, Manual Transaxle Oil, Engine Mechanical, Name Plate, Power Steering Link Assy, Maintenance, Manual Transaxle Assy, Headlamp Dimmer Switch Assy, Transmission Wire, Rear Suspension, Partial Engine, Air Bag Sensor Rear, Clutch Start Switch Assy, Passenger Air Bag Assy, Supplemental Restraint System, Cooling System, Rear Coil Spring, Parking Brake Lever, Brake Fluid, Curtain Shield Air Bag Assy, Combination Meter, Front Shock Absorber, Power Window Control System, Parkneutral Position Switch, Generator Assy, Charcoal Canister, Power Source, Throttle Body Assy, Front Axle Hub, Clutch Unit, Tire & Wheel, Roof Drip Side Finish Moulding, Drive Shaft, Front Wheel Alignment, Roof Headlining, Front Door Glass Weatherstrip, Air Conditioner Refrigerant, Camshaft, Air Conditioning Blower Assy, Floor Shift Assy, Quarter Window Assy, Automatic Transaxle Assy, Manual Transaxle System, Chain Sub-Assy, Headlamp Protector Retainer, Automatic Transaxle Fluid, Heater Or Boost Ventilator Control, Starting System, Parking Brake, Windshield Wiper Motor Assy, Camshaft Position Sensor, Water Pump Assy, Oil Pump, Seat Position Air Bag Sensor, Wire Harness Repair, Headlamp Assy, Steering Sensor, Center Air Bag Sensor Assy, Sun Roof System, Rear Shock Absorber Assy, Side Turn Signal Lamp Assy, Cooling Fan System, Lighting System, Ignition System, Input Shaft Assy, Air Bag Sensor Front, Fuel Injector, Power Door Lock Control System, Clutch Release Cylinder Assy, Lubrication System, Brake Booster, Back Door, Starter Switch, Front Suspension Arm.

Specific Body Systems:

Front Bumper, Rear Bumper, Fender Panel Mudguard, Side Mudguard, Back Door Garnish, License Plate Lamp Assy, Sun Roof, Hood, Rear Combination Lamp Assy, Front Suspension, Front Door, Rear Door, Quarter Window Assy, Back Door Glass, Windshield Glass, Front Door Glass Weatherstrip, Rear Door Glass Weatherstrip, Roof Headlining, Roof Drip Side Finish Moulding.

Specific Electrical Systems:

Charging System, Horn, Wiper And Washer System, Steering Column, Roof Antenna Pole Sub-Assy, License Plate Lamp Assy, Antenna Cord Sub-Assy, Outer Rear View Mirror Assy, Front Marker Lamp Assy, Side Air Bag Sensor Assy, Skid Control Sensor, Radio Receiver Assy, Seat Belt, Spiral Cable Sub-Assy, Instrument Panel, Yaw Rate Sensor, Window Defogger System, Center Stop Lamp Assy, Power Steering, Shift Lock System, Washer Nozzle, Speed Sensor Front, Seat Belt Warning System, Center Cluster Module Switch, Front Seat Belt, Power Mirror Control System, Air Conditioning Amplifier Assy, Horn Button Assy, Air Conditioning System, Audio & Visual System, Knock Sensor, Amplifier Antenna Assy, Inner Rear View Mirror Assy, Rear Speaker Assy, Windshield Wiper Switch Assy, Name Plate, Headlamp Dimmer Switch Assy, Transmission Wire, Air Bag Sensor Rear, Clutch Start Switch Assy, Passenger Air Bag Assy, Supplemental Restraint System, Combination Meter, Power Window Control System, Parkneutral Position Switch, Generator Assy, Power Source, Starter Switch, Steering Sensor, Center Air Bag Sensor Assy, Sun Roof System, Side Turn Signal Lamp Assy, Lighting System, Ignition System, Air Bag Sensor Front, Fuel Injector, Power Door Lock Control System, Starter Assy.

Chassis And Driveline:

Rear Axle Beam, Rear Suspension, Front Suspension System, Front Drive Shaft, Differential Case Assy, Front Axle Hub, Rear Axle Hub, Front Differential Oil Seal, Drive Shaft, Rear Suspension System, Front Suspension Arm, Rear Coil Spring, Front Shock Absorber, Rear Shock Absorber Assy.

Exterior Body Panels:

Covers removal, installation, and repair of exterior panels such as hoods, fenders, doors, bumpers, and body trim.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled service, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, repair and replacement of components, body panel repair, electrical system diagnosis, wiring diagrams, component specifications, torque values, fluid capacities and specifications.

Specific Procedures:

Drive belt inspection and replacement, charging system testing, horn diagnosis, parking brake adjustment, wiper system repair, fuel system cleaning and component testing, ignition system troubleshooting, exhaust system repair, transmission service (fluid change, filter replacement, internal diagnostics), driveline component maintenance, steering linkage inspection and repair, brake system bleeding and component replacement, suspension component inspection and replacement, electrical system troubleshooting using wiring diagrams, body panel repair and alignment, HVAC system servicing, airbag system precautions and checks, seat belt inspection and repair.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams are a cornerstone of this manual, covering all electrical circuits for engine, chassis, and body systems, crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.

Wheel Alignment:

Detailed procedures and specifications for front and rear wheel alignment, including camber, caster, and toe adjustments, which are critical for handling and tire wear.

Engine Performance Tuning:

While primarily a repair manual, it may offer basic insights into engine operation and potential areas for performance optimization through proper maintenance and component selection.

Technical Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, including detailed disassembly and reassembly instructions, specifications, and technical notes for advanced diagnostics and complete overhauls.

Diagnostic Tools:

The manual will likely reference specific diagnostic tools and procedures for the engine control module (ECM), including reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and live data interpretation, although OBD-II compliance might be limited or transitional for some 1995 models.

Component Rebuilds:

The manual likely includes detailed procedures for rebuilding key engine and transmission components, such as cylinder heads, water pumps, oil pumps, and potentially transmission valve bodies and torque converters.

Torque Specifications:

The manual provides critical torque specifications for virtually every fastener, essential for ensuring proper assembly and preventing damage during repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Compatible with Windows 95/98/ME/XP/Vista/7 and Linux/MAC operating systems, indicating it's a versatile digital document.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.0L (3956cc) AMC 242 I6 OHV

Secondary Engine:

2.5L (2500cc) AMC 150 I4 OHV

Horsepower 4.0L:

180 hp @ 4750 rpm (approx.)

Torque 4.0L:

220 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (approx.)

Horsepower 2.5L:

125 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Torque 2.5L:

150 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (approx.)

Bore Stroke 4.0L:

3.875 in x 3.563 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

Compression Ratio 4.0L:

8.7:1

Fuel System 4.0L:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SMPI)

Fuel System 2.5L:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Code Identification:

The manual will detail how to identify the specific engine installed (2.5L I4 or 4.0L I6) based on VIN or engine block markings.

Engine Displacements:

2.5 Liters (150 cubic inches) and 4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (AX-5)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (AW4)

Transmission Features Aw4:

Electronically controlled, with 'Power' and 'Economy' modes.

Transmission Codes:

Covers identification of AX-5 manual transmission and AW4 automatic transmission, along with their respective variations and identification marks.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

166.2 inches (4221 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height:

65.3 inches (1659 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3200 - 3500 lbs (1450 - 1590 kg), depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

1995 models did not have standardized NHTSA or IIHS ratings as we know them today, but were generally considered robust for their era.

Active Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels.

Passive Features:

Seat belts, optional airbags (driver and passenger in later models of this generation, but potentially limited availability in '95).

Seatbelt Pretensioners:

While advanced pretensioners were less common, the manual will cover the operation and inspection of standard seat belt systems.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Speaker Locations:

Front door, rear door, and rear cargo area speaker locations are detailed, along with wiring for the audio system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on mechanical systems. Optional ABS available.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No factory integrated connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Automatic:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as specified in the manual.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Spark Plug Replacement 4.0L:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on spark plug type and driving conditions. The manual will specify recommended part numbers.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually, or more frequently in dusty conditions.

Engine Oil Specification 4.0L:

API SJ or SL rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations).

Engine Oil Specification 2.5L:

API SJ or SL rated, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific climate recommendations).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (Chrysler Mopar)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for specific AX-5).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically green.

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

NP231 (Command-Trac/Selec-Trac) - Typically uses ATF+3 or a dedicated transfer case fluid meeting Mopar specifications. Refer to manual for precise fill levels and types.

Differential Fluid Type:

Front and Rear Axle Gear Oil: API GL-5, SAE 80W-90. Limited-slip differentials may require a friction modifier additive.

Known Issues:

Common issues can include radiator leaks, alternator failures, oil filter adapter seal leaks (4.0L), exhaust manifold cracks (4.0L), transfer case chain stretch, and worn out suspension bushings. The AW4 automatic transmission is generally robust but can develop solenoid issues.

Common Wear Items:

Control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, and shock absorbers are common wear items that the manual details inspection and replacement for.

Coolant Leaks:

Common areas for coolant leaks include the radiator, heater core, water pump, and thermostat housing. The manual guides diagnosis and replacement for these components.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep has a long and storied history in the off-road vehicle market, dating back to WWII. The Cherokee nameplate has been synonymous with capability and ruggedness for decades.

Model Evolution:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its unibody construction, offering a lighter and more car-like ride compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs. The 1995 model year saw a significant facelift and updates, including improved aerodynamics, revised interior, and updated powertrains. The YJ Wrangler (often confused or referred to alongside XJ in some parts catalogs) is a different platform, primarily known for its iconic round headlights and leaf-spring suspension, which was phased out by the TJ in 1997.

Chassis Design:

The XJ Cherokee's innovative unibody design with integrated front uniframe structure provided significant rigidity and a lighter curb weight, contributing to its improved on-road manners compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs. The 1995 update refined this structure.

Xj Facelift Details:

The 1995 facelift brought a more integrated bumper design, revised grille, new headlights, and a redesigned interior dashboard with improved ergonomics and materials. The chassis also received minor improvements for rigidity and NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness).

Production Years Xj:

1984-2001

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The XJ Cherokee generation was widely praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its blending of capability and comfort. Motor Trend named it 'Four Wheeler of the Year' in 1984, setting a benchmark for compact SUVs.