Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Target Audience:
Jeep owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance information, DIY enthusiasts, professional mechanics.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.
Vehicle Features:
Robust off-road capability, comfortable interior, strong towing capacity (diesel variant enhances torque and fuel economy).
Benefit To Owner:
Essential for accurate part ordering, efficient troubleshooting, and performing maintenance and repairs, saving time and money.
Powertrain:
Engine (all diesel variants), Transmission (automatic, manual), Drivetrain (transfer case, differentials, axles).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, standard).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, power accessories, ignition system, battery, charging system, starting system.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, seats, trim, HVAC system, interior components.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups.
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and replacement for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures, testing of sensors, actuators, and control modules.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Code:
VM Motori "R" series (e.g., R425 / R428)
Displacement:
2.5L / 2.8L (common for European/international markets for this era)
Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Turbocharged Diesel
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 115-140 hp (depending on specific engine variant and tuning)
Torque Range:
Approximately 245-280 lb-ft (depending on specific engine variant and tuning)
Injection Type:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (5/150,000 Mile Formula) - Orange
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.0 quarts (9.5 liters)
Type:
45RFE / 42RLE 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Type:
NV3500 5-speed Manual Transmission (less common in diesel variants)
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, Overdrive gear, Tow/haul mode.
Automatic Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602)
Automatic Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for dry fill, 11.0 quarts (10.4 liters) total capacity.
Length:
Approx. 183.0 inches (4650 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.5 inches (1816 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 116.0 inches (2946 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,400 - 4,700 lbs (2000 - 2130 kg), varies by trim and equipment.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 - 7,000 lbs (2268 - 3175 kg), depending on configuration and engine.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (Driver and Passenger) for 2002 model year.
NHTSA Side Impact:
4/5 stars (Front and Rear Passenger) for 2002 model year.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional side curtain airbags may be available on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for diesel models.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic Diesel Engine Oil (API CI-4 or newer recommended)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602) or specified power steering fluid.
Common Diesel Issues:
Injectors, glow plug system, turbocharger issues, EGR valve problems, potential for head gasket issues on some VM Motori engines if overheated.
Common Wj Issues:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, water pump, heater core), transfer case chain wear (NV242, NV247), death wobble (front suspension components), power window regulators, rust on rocker panels and rear quarter panels.
Brand Focus:
Jeep is renowned for its off-road capability and rugged utility vehicles, tracing its roots back to World War II.
Generation Wj:
The WJ generation (1999-2004) represented a significant upgrade over the ZJ, featuring a more modern unibody construction, independent front suspension, and improved interior refinement.
Production Years:
WJ Grand Cherokee production ran from 1999 to 2004.
Assembly Locations:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Diesel Variant Availability:
Diesel engines were primarily offered in European and international markets for the WJ platform, featuring VM Motori sourced engines.
SUV Of The Year:
The Grand Cherokee (including WJ generation) has received numerous accolades as a capable and comfortable SUV, often cited for its balance of on-road manners and off-road prowess.
Consumer Reports:
Historically, the WJ generation has had mixed reliability ratings, with specific models and engines performing better than others. This manual is crucial for proactive maintenance.