Positioning:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ is a highly regarded compact SUV known for its off-road capability and robust design. This manual caters to owners and technicians seeking in-depth technical information for maintenance and repair.
Competitors:
Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer (early models)
Vehicle Strengths:
Unibody construction (lighter and more rigid than body-on-frame), legendary Selec-Trac and Command-Trac 4WD systems, durable and capable platform.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service, Repair, and Maintenance
Specific Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Drivetrain (4x4 Systems), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Brakes (ABS & Non-ABS), Steering, Suspension, Exhaust, Fuel System, Cooling System, Electrical System, Body & Chassis, Climate Control, Wiring Diagrams
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Purpose:
Professional Repair and Diagnosis
Format:
Electronic Download (PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul procedures, component specifications, timing, and assembly
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system diagnostics, emissions control, engine performance troubleshooting
Drivetrain:
Dana 30 front axle, Chrysler 8.25 rear axle, NP231 Command-Trac transfer case, U-joint service, 4WD system operation and repair
Transmission:
42RE Automatic Transmission, AX-15 Manual Transmission, clutch service, driveline components
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum brakes, ABS system diagnostics and repair, parking brake
Suspension:
Front solid axle with leaf springs, rear leaf spring suspension, steering system (power steering pump, gearbox, linkage)
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse and relay information, starting and charging systems, lighting, power windows, power locks, instrument cluster
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, frame inspection
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, brake pad replacement
Repair:
Engine component replacement (pistons, rods, bearings, valves), transmission overhaul, axle rebuild, brake caliper/wheel cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, component voltage and resistance checks
Depth:
Expert Level - Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Code:
4.0L Inline-6 (OHV)
Displacement:
3960 cc (242 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.562 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 4600 rpm
Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Valve Train:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 12 valves, 2 valves per cylinder
Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Other Engine:
2.5L 4-Cylinder (AMC 150) - Less common for 2001 models, primarily phased out.
Transmission Type:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type:
AX-15 5-Speed Manual
Transfer Case:
NP231 Command-Trac (Part-time 2WD, 4WD Part-time, 4WD Full-time, Neutral)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, 75W-90 recommended
Wheelbase:
103.4 inches (2626 mm)
Length:
165.4 inches (4201 mm)
Width:
70.3 inches (1786 mm)
Height:
64.4 inches (1636 mm)
Ground Clearance:
8.7 inches (221 mm)
Curb Weight:
3400 - 3700 lbs (1542 - 1678 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 5300 lbs (2404 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
33.7 cubic feet (0.95 cubic meters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
71.2 cubic feet (2.02 cubic meters)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3/5 Stars (for 2001 models)
ABS:
Available (typically 4-wheel ABS on higher trims)
Traction Control:
Not standard or commonly available on this model year.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Radio Options:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player, optional premium sound system.
Speakers:
Typically 4-6 speakers, with optional amplifier for premium systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trim levels.
Trip Computer:
Not standard, some aftermarket or higher trim options may exist.
Auxiliary Inputs:
Not standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under severe conditions, 5,000 miles/8,000 km under normal conditions).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs (if equipped).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6 US quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter for 4.0L engine
Engine Oil Type:
10W-30 API Service SG or higher (check owner's manual for seasonal variations)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Formula 1 (or equivalent HOAT coolant), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Problems:
Rear main seal leaks (4.0L I6), cracked cylinder heads (early 4.0L, less common by 2001), death wobble (steering/suspension linkage issues), rust (especially rocker panels and unibody structure), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, water pump leaks, radiator issues.
Preventative Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect and grease U-joints, check for oil leaks, maintain cooling system diligently, inspect for rust, monitor steering and suspension components.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history of producing rugged, capable off-road vehicles, dating back to World War II.
Xj Introduction:
The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984 and revolutionized the SUV market with its unibody construction. It was the first compact SUV. The 2001 model represents the final year of the XJ generation.
Xj Generations:
One generation (1984-2001) with significant updates throughout its production run.
Production Years:
1984 - 2001
Manufacturing Location:
USA (various Chrysler/Jeep plants)
Off Road Accolades:
The Cherokee XJ platform is highly regarded in the off-roading community for its capability and aftermarket support.
Consumer Reports Rating:
Ratings varied throughout its lifespan; 2001 models were generally considered average to above average for reliability in their class at the time.
Certification Type:
This manual is an official Factory Service Manual (FSM) equivalent, providing manufacturer-level detail.
