Key Attributes:
Off-road capability, robust design, utility, distinct styling
Contemporaries:
Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder
Unibody Construction:
Revolutionary for its class at the time, contributing to a lighter and more refined ride compared to body-on-frame competitors.
4X4 Systems:
Offered both part-time (Command-Trac) and full-time (Selec-Trac) 4WD options, enhancing versatility.
Engine Options:
Renowned for the legendary AMC 4.0L inline-six engine, known for its torque and durability.
Engine:
2.5L AMC I4, 4.0L AMC I6, 2.1L VM Turbodiesel (optional)
Transmission:
AX4/AX4-100 (2WD), AX400 (4WD) 4-speed Automatic, AX5/AX15 5-speed Manual
Drivetrain:
4WD System (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), Transfer Case (NP231, NP242), Axles (Dana 30 Front, Dana 35/44 Rear)
Suspension:
Leaf Spring Rear, Coil Spring Front with Control Arms
Brakes:
Front Disc, Rear Drum (standard), Front and Rear Disc (optional on later models within range)
Electrical:
Charging System, Ignition System, Starting System, Lighting, Accessories, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Diagnostics, Body Control Modules (BCM) on later models
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Seats, Upholstery, HVAC System
Chassis And Frame:
Unibody Construction Details, Frame Components (where applicable for repair/modification)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Engine Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Cylinder Head Removal/Installation, Piston/Ring Replacement, Valve Train Service
Transmission Repair:
Automatic and Manual Transmission Disassembly, Assembly, and Overhaul
Drivetrain Service:
Transfer Case Service, Differential Service, Driveshaft and U-joint Replacement
Suspension And Steering:
Control Arm Replacement, Bushing Replacement, Shock Absorber/Strut Replacement, Power Steering System Service
Brake System Service:
Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement, Rotor/Drum Service, Brake Line Replacement, Bleeding Procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Fault Code Diagnosis
Body Repair:
Panel Replacement, Dent Repair, Rust Remediation, Glass Replacement
HVAC Service:
Component Replacement (Compressor, Evaporator, Condenser), Refrigerant Servicing
Troubleshooting Guides:
Symptom-based diagnostic trees
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics with wiring diagrams and component testing procedures
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of specialized tools required for specific repairs
NHTSA Rating Early Models:
Not extensively rated by modern standards during early production. Later models may have some ratings.
Braking System:
Standard Front Disc/Rear Drum, optional 4-wheel disc later in the range. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available on later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts, lap belts for rear passengers.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag introduced in 1994, so typically absent on most 1984-1993 models. Some late 1993 models might have it as an option.
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player on later models.
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speaker systems.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels, and later rear wheels, depending on model year and trim.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; basic wiring for power accessories and radio.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic transmissions, check manual for manual transmission service.
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil 40L:
10W-30 (API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity 40L:
5 US Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+3 (MS-7176) or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-3 or GL-4 for AX5, GL-5 for AX15 (check specific model year)
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent) and distilled water
Common Issues 1:
Headliner sag, interior trim degradation, death wobble (steering/suspension issues), cracked exhaust manifolds (4.0L), valve stem seals (4.0L), rear main seal leaks.
Common Issues 2:
Cracked coolant reservoirs, aging electrical connectors, worn leaf spring bushings, rust in common areas (rocker panels, wheel wells).
Jeep Legacy:
Building on Jeep's reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability established by the CJ series and Wagoneer.
Generation Xj:
The XJ generation marked a significant shift to a unibody SUV design, offering a blend of comfort and off-road prowess.
Key Updates 84-93:
Introduction of the 4.0L HO engine, improved interior amenities, optional ABS, and minor cosmetic refreshes throughout the period.
Manufacturer:
American Motors Corporation (AMC) until 1987, then Chrysler Corporation
Manufacturing Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
