Positioning:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ is a compact SUV known for its ruggedness and off-road capability. This manual caters to owners and mechanics who maintain and repair this iconic vehicle.
Competition:
Competed against vehicles like the Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, and Toyota 4Runner. Its unibody construction set it apart.
Vehicle Strengths:
Compact size, excellent off-road capability, durable powertrain options, distinctive styling.
Value:
Provides comprehensive diagnostic and repair information, empowering owners to perform maintenance and repairs effectively, saving time and money.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Fuel System, Emission Control
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, internal component diagnosis and repair, timing, cooling system, lubrication system
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnosis, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, fuel tank service
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system, evaporative emission control
Drivetrain:
Transfer case service and repair (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), differential diagnosis and rebuild, axle components
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering gearbox, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), hydraulic system, ABS diagnosis (if equipped), parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, blower motor, controls, refrigerant service
Body Interior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, glass replacement
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, grille, fenders, doors, tailgate, exterior trim, paint and body repair
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic procedures
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
Diagnostics:
OBD-I code reading and interpretation, component testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Code:
2.5L AMC 150 (4.0L variant also common)
Engine Type:
Inline-4, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (5/150)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor-based systems depending on specific configuration
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (AX-5)
Transmission Type:
3-Speed Automatic (AW4)
Transmission Type Alternative:
4-Speed Automatic (Select-A-400 - less common on 1990 models, but can be a swap)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-III (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) - consult manual for specific viscosity
Transfer Case Options:
Command-Trac (231J), Selec-Trac (242J)
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF+4 or equivalent
Audio System:
AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player, optional CD player
Speakers:
4-speaker or 6-speaker system
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, engine temperature, oil pressure; warning lights for various systems
Connectivity Features:
None (Pre-modern connectivity era)
Oil Change Interval:
3,000 miles or 3 months
Air Filter Replacement:
15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000 miles
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid
Coolant Capacity Quarts:
12.5
Common Problems:
Radiator leaks, head gasket issues (especially on 4.0L), rear main seal leaks, rust (particularly on unibody frame rails and rocker panels), exhaust manifold cracks (4.0L)
Oil Filter Part Number:
PH8A / Mopar MO-090 (example, verify for specific engine)
Air Filter Part Number:
AF1716 (example, verify for specific engine)
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep's heritage is rooted in robust, go-anywhere capability, established with its military origins in WWII.
Xj Introduction:
Introduced in 1984, the XJ Cherokee marked a significant departure with its unibody construction, revolutionizing the compact SUV segment.
1990 Updates:
1990 saw the introduction of the driver-side airbag as standard, and some interior and exterior styling refinements. The 4.0L inline-six engine became increasingly popular.
Production Span:
1984-2001
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
