🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

XJ

Product Type:

Digital Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle

Jeep Heritage:

Continuation of Jeep's off-road legacy in a more accessible and comfortable package.

Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Tracker (early models), Nissan Pathfinder.

Body On Frame:

Durable and robust construction, suitable for off-road use and towing.

Four Wheel Drive:

Available with Command-Trac (part-time 4WD) and Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD) systems.

Off Road Capability:

Renowned for its off-road prowess, higher ground clearance, and available robust 4x4 systems.

Practicality:

Versatile for daily driving, hauling cargo, and recreational activities.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Drivetrain:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Steering:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Body And Frame:

Yes

HVAC:

Yes

Interior:

Yes

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Yes

Maintenance Procedures:

Yes

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Specifications And Tolerances:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul procedures, component identification, torque specifications, timing procedures.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems, sensor diagnostics, ECU information.

Automatic Transmission:

Service and repair of the AW4 (42LE) automatic transmission, fluid types, shift control diagnostics.

Manual Transmission:

Service and repair of the NV242 (Selec-Trac) and NP231 (Command-Trac) transfer cases, gear ratios, driveline components.

4X4 System:

Operation and servicing of Selec-Trac and Command-Trac systems, actuator diagnostics, linkage adjustments.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, power steering system, steering gear service.

Brake System:

Front and rear brake component replacement (discs, pads, calipers, drums, shoes), hydraulic system bleeding, ABS (if equipped) diagnostics.

Electrical Components:

Starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, power windows, locks, mirrors, wiper system.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant types and capacities, fan operation.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, evaporative emission system.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors.

Body And Interior:

Door panel removal, seat adjustment, trim piece installation/removal, glass replacement, weatherstripping.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning system components, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant handling, control panel service.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation.

Component Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step guides for replacing major and minor components.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Information on using diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and on-board diagnostics (OBD-I).

Overhaul Instructions:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners.

Alignment Specifications:

Front and rear wheel alignment angles.

Depth:

Expert-level coverage for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Detail Level:

Provides in-depth explanations of system operation, repair techniques, and diagnostic strategies.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchable Text:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Zoomable:

Yes

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

4.0L Inline-6 (OHV)

Engine Displacement:

3960 cc (242 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.562 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 4750 rpm (approximate)

Torque:

225 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approximate)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with crank sensor.

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Cast Iron

Engine Code:

2.5L Inline-4 (OHV)

Engine Displacement:

2469 cc (150.6 cubic inches)

Horsepower:

125 hp @ 5200 rpm (approximate)

Torque:

150 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approximate)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (AX-15)

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (AW4 / 42LE)

Aw4 Control:

Electronically controlled with power and normal shift modes.

Manual Clutch:

Hydraulically operated.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar) or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 rated gear oil (e.g., 75W-90).

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 Liters) for refill, 13.5 quarts (12.8 Liters) total capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

171.5 inches (4356 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height:

63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) depending on configuration.

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 33.9 cubic feet (0.96 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 69.0 cubic feet (1.95 cubic meters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,200 - 3,600 lbs (1450 - 1630 kg) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,700 - 4,900 lbs (2130 - 2220 kg).

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with appropriate equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

4/5 stars (calculated for 1996 model).

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or all four wheels.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia reel seat belts in front, two-point lap belts in rear (later models may have three-point rear belts).

Body Construction:

Strong, unibody construction with integrated crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player. Basic analog controls.

Speakers:

Standard speaker configurations, often 4-6 speakers depending on trim.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trim levels.

OBD I:

Utilizes OBD-I diagnostic system, requiring specific scan tools or procedures for code retrieval.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or every 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Engine Air Filter:

Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles (19,000 - 24,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plugs:

Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, or as per severe duty recommendations.

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on temperature), or SAE 5W-30 for cold climates. Consult manual for exact recommendation.

Engine Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant HOAT or equivalent).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).

Common Issues:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially 1991-1996 4.0L engines), catalytic converter failure, alternator issues, exhaust manifold cracks, sway bar links wear, rust (frame and body), fuel pump failure.

Diagnostics Focus:

The manual will provide detailed troubleshooting for these common problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep, a marque with deep roots in military vehicles and rugged off-road capability, began its passenger SUV journey with models like the Cherokee.

First Generation Xj:

Introduced in 1984, the XJ revolutionized the SUV market by being the first compact SUV built with a unibody construction, offering a lighter and more car-like ride compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

1996 Updates:

The 1996 model year saw minor updates, including revised interior trim and potential enhancements to the powertrain and safety features as part of its ongoing refinement.

Production Period:

1984-2001 (North America)

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA.

Popularity:

The XJ Cherokee remains a highly sought-after vehicle for its durability, off-road capability, and strong aftermarket support.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Popularity Among Offroaders:

Consistently ranked as a favorite by off-road enthusiasts for its capability and modification potential.

Industry Impact:

Pioneered the compact SUV segment with its unibody design, influencing many subsequent vehicle designs.

Value Retention:

Known for holding its value well due to its durability and enduring appeal.