Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road vehicle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians working on XJ Cherokees.
Key Competitors 2000:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Isuzu Rodeo.
Value Proposition:
Unmatched off-road capability and durability in its class, legendary inline-six engine, robust construction.
Covered Trim Levels:
All trim levels (e.g., Sport, Classic, Limited, SE, Freedom Edition)
Covered Regions:
Primarily North American market, but principles apply globally.
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, driveline, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front disc, rear drum), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, body electrical, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), HVAC controls, infotainment system, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, liftgate, bumpers, seats, upholstery, structural components.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for all major systems, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II).
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair.
Installation:
Component replacement procedures, accessory installation guidance where applicable.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and specifications.
Engine 1:
4.0L (3956cc) Inline-6 OHV 12V (AMC 242)
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.563 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
8.8:1
Engine 1 Horsepower Hp:
190 @ 4600 RPM
Engine 1 Torque Lb Ft:
225 @ 3200 RPM
Engine 1 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack (depending on exact build date).
Engine 1 Oil Capacity Quarts:
6.0
Engine 1 Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 (API SJ or higher)
Engine 2:
2.5L (2507cc) Inline-4 DOHC 16V (AMC 2000)
Engine 2 Horsepower Hp:
114 @ 4600 RPM
Engine 2 Torque Lb Ft:
145 @ 3200 RPM
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity Gallons:
20.0
Transmission 1:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission 2:
AX-15 5-Speed Manual
Transmission 3:
NV3550 5-Speed Manual (later models)
Transfer Case 1:
NP231 Command-Trac (2WD/4WD Part-Time)
Transfer Case 2:
NP242 Selec-Trac (2WD/4WD Full-Time & Part-Time)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Type 9602) or equivalent (Check manual for exact spec).
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MS-9224) or equivalent (e.g., Pennzoil Synchromesh) - 2.4 Quarts (2.3 Liters) for AX-15.
Ground Clearance In:
8.7 (approximate, varies with tire size)
Cargo Volume Cu Ft:
33.8 (behind rear seat) / 70.3 (with rear seat folded)
Curb Weight Lbs:
3,300 - 3,600 (approximate, varies by trim and drivetrain)
Towing Capacity Lbs:
2,000 (standard) / 5,000 (with optional tow package)
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 3,000 - 6,000 miles (refer to manual for specific conditions and oil type).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Automatic Transmission Service:
Inspect fluid condition regularly, drain and fill every 30,000 - 60,000 miles.
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water, HOAT type)
Common Issues 1:
Cracking in the unibody around the front coil spring perches. 'Death wobble' (shimmying of the steering wheel at speed, often due to worn steering/suspension components). Heater core leaks. Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on 4.0L). Oil filter adapter seal leaks.
Common Issues 2:
Water pump failure. Radiator leaks. Cooling fan issues. Front axle U-joint wear. Differential gear noise.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long-standing heritage in off-road vehicles, dating back to its military origins in WWII. Known for ruggedness and go-anywhere capability.
Xj Generation:
The XJ Cherokee was a groundbreaking vehicle, being the first compact SUV produced with a unibody construction, offering a lighter and more car-like ride than traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
Xj Production Years:
1984-2001
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA