Market Position:
The 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK represented a significant evolution for Jeep's flagship SUV, moving towards a more car-like unibody construction while retaining its off-road credentials. It competed in the mid-size to large SUV segment against rivals like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder.
Competitive Advantages 2006:
Key advantages for the WK Grand Cherokee included its powerful HEMI V8 engine option, a refined interior for its class, and a reputation for robust 4x4 systems (Quadra-Trac II, Quadra-Drive II). Its unibody construction offered improved on-road manners compared to previous body-on-frame SUVs.
Key Features 2006 Wk:
Introduction of the redesigned WK platform, offering improved aerodynamics and a more modern interior. Availability of the 5.7L HEMI V8, a standard 3.7L V6, and optional 4.7L V8. Significant advancements in available technology and safety features.
Primary Coverage Areas:
Lubrication & Maintenance, Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Brakes, Cooling, Audio/Video, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules, Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Navigation/Telecommunication, Wiring, Engine, Exhaust System, Frame & Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering, Transmission and Transfer Case, Tires/Wheels, Body, Heating & Air Conditioning, Emissions Control
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Detailed coverage of gasoline engines including V8 HEMI (5.7L) and V6 (3.7L, 4.7L), focusing on engine mechanics, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions, cooling, lubrication, and exhaust systems. Includes component identification, removal/installation procedures, diagnostics, and repair specifications.
Transmission And Driveline:
Comprehensive coverage for automatic transmissions (e.g., 545RFE) and NV245, NV345, NP145, NP247, NP249 transfer cases. Includes diagnosis, repair, overhaul procedures, fluid specifications, and capacity. Differential and driveline components (axles, CV joints, driveshafts) are also detailed.
Brakes:
Detailed information on hydraulic and electronic brake systems, including ABS, EBD, and stability control. Covers brake component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers, lines), bleeding procedures, and diagnostic troubleshooting for hydraulic and electronic faults.
Suspension And Steering:
In-depth coverage of independent front suspension (IFS) and multi-link rear suspension. Includes procedures for suspension component inspection, replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, bushings), alignment specifications, and steering system diagnostics (power steering, rack and pinion).
Electrical And Electronics:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including battery, charging, starting, lighting, instruments, wipers, horn, power accessories, and various electronic control modules (ECMs, PCM, BCM). Includes detailed wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures, and connector pinouts.
Body And Chassis:
Covers body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, exterior trim, bumpers, frame straightening, and interior components. Includes HVAC system diagnosis and repair, heating elements, and cabin air filtration.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), tire rotation, and general inspections.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues across all vehicle systems. Includes symptom-based diagnosis, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and resolution, and electrical system diagnostics using wiring diagrams and test equipment.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul. Covers engine rebuild procedures, transmission service, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, and bodywork.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive and in-depth, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Includes torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring schematics, component testing procedures, and specifications for engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and electrical systems.
Engine Options 2006:
3.7L SOHC V6 (EER), 4.7L SOHC V8 (ENH/ENR), 5.7L OHV V8 HEMI (EZB)
3.7L V6 Performance:
Approx. 210-215 horsepower, 235-240 lb-ft torque (figures vary slightly by specific model year tuning)
4.7L V8 Performance:
Approx. 230-235 horsepower, 290-300 lb-ft torque
5.7L Hemi V8 Performance:
Approx. 330-335 horsepower, 375-380 lb-ft torque
Fuel System Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (3.7L & 4.7L V8), 89 Octane Recommended for 5.7L HEMI (premium may be optional/recommended for optimal performance)
Standard Transmission 2006:
5-speed automatic (e.g., W5A580 on some models, 545RFE on others, depending on engine and drivetrain)
Optional Transmission 2006:
N/A for 2006 (primarily automatic)
Transfer Case Options:
Quadra-Trac I (full-time 4WD), Quadra-Trac II (2-speed with electronic low range), Quadra-Drive II (Quadra-Trac II with electronic limited-slip differentials)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 116.1 inches (2949 mm)
Length:
Approx. 186.6 inches (4740 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.5 inches (1892 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,000 lbs (2041 - 2268 kg), depending on engine and drivetrain
Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,500 lbs (2948 kg), when properly equipped with towing package
NHTSA Front Impact Rating 2006:
5 Stars (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Front Impact Rating 2006:
Good
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Roll Mitigation
Passive Safety Features:
Front driver and passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, available side curtain airbags (front and second row), front seatbelt pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal). Refer to owner's manual for specific recommendation.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and transmission type. Manual recommends specific interval based on usage.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions), SAE 5W-20 for some 3.7L variants. Chrysler MS-6395 approved oil required.
Coolant Specification:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Common Wk Issues 2006:
Potential issues include HVAC blend door actuator failures, electronic throttle control (ETC) problems, noisy front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings), and some transmission solenoid issues. Water pump leaks can also occur on V8 engines.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mopar MO-899 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 57899, Fram PH3500)
Engine Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mopar 52034421AA or equivalent (e.g., Wix 42442, Fram CA9900)
Jeep Heritage:
Jeep, a brand with deep roots in military vehicles, has consistently delivered SUVs known for their off-road capability and ruggedness since its inception during World War II. This heritage informs the Grand Cherokee's positioning as a premium SUV with genuine trail-rated potential.
Grand Cherokee Wk Evolution:
The WK generation, launched for the 2005 model year (as a 2005 model in some markets, but the manual specifically states 2006 WK), marked a significant shift from the WJ generation's traditional truck-based platform to a more modern unibody construction. This transition aimed to improve on-road refinement and fuel efficiency while retaining Jeep's SUV identity.
Wk Production Location:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA