Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Market Appeal:
Known for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and practical design.
Key Competitors:
Ford Bronco II, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer
Design Philosophy:
Unibody construction for a lighter, more car-like ride compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
Off Road Capability:
Available Command-Trac (2WD/4WD) and Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD) systems.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, driveline (4WD components), brakes (front and rear), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay information
Body:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, body sealing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable (OBD-I era), symptom-based diagnosis
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustment procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and maintenance information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code 1:
4.0L OHV V6 (AMC 242)
Engine Displacement 1:
3956 cc
Engine Configuration 1:
V6, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 173 hp @ 4500 rpm (varies slightly by year/tune)
Torque 1:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (varies slightly by year/tune)
Engine Code 2:
2.5L OHV I4 (AMC 150)
Engine Displacement 2:
2464 cc
Engine Configuration 2:
Inline 4-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 125 hp @ 4000 rpm
Torque 2:
Approx. 190 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Induction Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Aisin AX-5)
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (Chrysler 727 Torqueflite / A999 for early models, later 4-speed AW4)
Transfer Case:
Command-Trac (NV231) or Selec-Trac (NV242) part-time/full-time 4WD systems
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
Approx. 164.4 inches (4176 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.6 inches (1615 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,100 - 3,500 lbs (1406 - 1588 kg), depending on configuration
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player on some later models.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may be optional on certain models.
Diagnostics Port:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation) port, typically a proprietary connector requiring specific scan tools.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on usage and oil type.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km), or as per severe duty recommendations.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or later, viscosity 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specifics based on temperature).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Dexron III (for AW4 automatic) or manual transmission fluid (GL-4 for AX-5).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Problem 1:
Head gasket leaks on the 4.0L engine (especially older designs).
Common Problem 2:
Radiator and cooling system issues (leaks, frequent overheating).
Common Problem 3:
Rust and corrosion, particularly on the unibody structure, rocker panels, and floor pans.
Common Problem 4:
Electrical gremlins, especially related to grounds and aging wiring harnesses.
Common Problem 5:
Wear and tear on suspension and steering components due to off-road use or age.
Automotive Magazine Award:
Frequently lauded by off-road publications for its capability and durability.
Value Retention:
Considered a solid value vehicle, with strong resale in the used market, especially well-maintained examples.
