🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Model Code:

XJ

Year:

1994

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners with basic mechanical skills and independent auto service professionals, aiming to replicate dealer-level repair capabilities.

Value Proposition:

Provides same specifications and procedures as authorized dealer service departments, enabling DIY repairs and independent shop services, reducing reliance on dealerships.

Coverage Advantage:

Covers all systems, including detailed diagnostics and troubleshooting, offering a complete solution for maintenance and repair.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair information for the 1994 Jeep Cherokee XJ.

Specific Areas:

Engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical system, HVAC, body and chassis, interior, troubleshooting.

Page Count:

Est. 1500-2000 pages (typical for a complete factory service manual of this era).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed book or digital PDF.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emissions control, starting and charging.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual and automatic transmissions, transfer case, axles, drivelines, U-joints.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment.

Brake System:

Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS (if equipped), parking brake, hydraulic system.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuses and relays.

Climate Control:

HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), components and diagnosis.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis components, frame.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing procedures.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostics and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

If PDF: Searchable text, bookmark navigation, high-resolution diagrams. If Printed: Durable binding, clear ink, high-quality paper.

Print Quality:

High quality, with clear diagrams and legible text suitable for workshop use.

Binding Type:

If Printed: Professional binding (e.g., spiral-bound or hardbound) designed for workshop durability.

Paper Type:

If Printed: Heavy-duty paper stock resistant to grease and tearing.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement 1:

4.0L (242 cu. in.)

Engine Configuration 1:

Inline 6-cylinder, OHV

Engine Code 1:

AMC 242

Engine Horsepower 1:

Approx. 180-190 hp

Engine Torque 1:

Approx. 220-230 lb-ft

Engine Displacement 2:

2.5L (150 cu. in.)

Engine Configuration 2:

Inline 4-cylinder, OHV

Engine Code 2:

AMC 150

Engine Horsepower 2:

Approx. 125 hp

Engine Torque 2:

Approx. 145-150 lb-ft

Fuel Injection:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based system depending on specific engine variant and build date.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

3-speed Automatic (e.g., AW4)

Transmission Type Opt 1:

5-speed Manual (e.g., AX-15)

Transfer Case:

Command-Trac (NV231) or Selec-Trac (NV242) full-time 4WD system.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 or equivalent (check specific vehicle application for exact type).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 (check specific manual for exact spec).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Overall Length:

Approx. 165.9 inches (4214 mm)

Overall Width:

Approx. 70.3 inches (1786 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 64.4 inches (1636 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Varies by trim and suspension, typically around 8-10 inches.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300-3700 lbs (1497-1678 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Not directly comparable to modern standards; older testing protocols. Expect moderate safety for its era.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, with front shoulder belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.

Climate Control Features:

Manual climate controls with A/C, heater, and vent options.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Power Accessories:

Optional power windows, power locks, and power mirrors.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions; check manual for specific recommendations.

Coolant Change:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles with appropriate coolant type.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically 30,000-60,000 miles for conventional plugs; platinum/iridium plugs may last longer.

Engine Oil Type:

10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG or higher for 4.0L; 10W-30 for 2.5L (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a green color (conventional) or a HOAT/OAT coolant depending on original fill. Always use a compatible type.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Problems:

Headliner sagging, radiator leaks (especially the plastic tanks on early models), rear main seal leaks (4.0L), rust on rocker panels and unibody structure, worn leaf spring bushings, cracked exhaust manifolds (4.0L), power steering pump whine, AW4 transmission harsh shifts.

Diagnostic Tips:

Importance of checking for vacuum leaks, condition of fuel injectors, and spark plug health for optimal performance and fuel economy.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long history of robust and capable off-road vehicles, dating back to WWII Willys MB.

Xj Introduction:

The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984, pioneering the concept of a compact, unibody SUV. It was a significant departure from Jeep's traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

Xj Generation Details:

The 1994 model year falls within the second generation of the XJ Cherokee. Key updates for this period included revised interior and exterior styling, improved engines, and increased refinement. The 1994 model year saw a facelift with updated front fascia, composite headlights, and new interior appointments.

Production Period:

1984-2001 (for the XJ platform globally, North American production for XJ ended in 2001).

Manufacturer:

American Motors Corporation (AMC) until 1987, then Chrysler Corporation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

The XJ Cherokee was widely praised for its compact size, car-like ride (for an SUV), and impressive off-road capability, earning it a strong reputation and numerous accolades throughout its production run.

Segment Leadership:

Considered a benchmark in the compact SUV segment for much of its life, influencing many subsequent designs.