Vehicle Class:
Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking an off-road capable and versatile SUV. Also marketed towards those valuing comfort and luxury features in an SUV.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its legendary Jeep off-road prowess, typically featuring robust 4x4 systems (e.g., Selec-Trac, Command-Trac).
Luxury Features:
Offered in various trim levels, including upscale options that provided premium interiors and amenities for its class.
Powertrain Options:
Available with powerful V8 engines in addition to the standard inline-6, offering competitive performance.
Engine Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage of engine systems, including lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel, exhaust, and intake manifold.
Drivetrain Coverage:
Detailed information on differential, driveline components, and transaxle (transmission) systems.
Chassis Coverage:
In-depth coverage of suspension, brakes, steering, tires, and wheels.
Electrical Coverage:
Extensive coverage of electrical systems including battery, starter, charging system, ignition, instrument panel, audio systems, horns, vehicle speed control, turn signals, flashers, wipers, washers, lamps, restraint systems, heated systems, power door locks, theft security, power seats, power windows, power mirrors, chime systems, and overhead console.
Body And Frame Coverage:
Coverage includes bumpers, frame, and general bodywork.
Comfort And Climate Coverage:
Detailed sections on Heating and Air Conditioning systems.
Emissions Coverage:
Includes information on Emission Control Systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for all routine maintenance tasks, including lubrication, fluid changes, and inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Comprehensive repair instructions for all major and minor components and systems of the vehicle.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Implied through detailed troubleshooting steps and system explanations within the repair sections.
Wiring Diagrams Included:
Dedicated section for complete wiring diagrams.
Depth Of Coverage:
Advanced diagnostics and complete repair procedures, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. High quality diagrams enhance understanding.
Engine 1 Type:
4.0L Inline-6 (242 cu in)
Engine 1 Power:
Approx. 185 hp @ 4700 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Engine 1 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
3.88 in x 3.56 in (98.5 mm x 90.5 mm)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
8.8:1
Engine 2 Type:
5.2L V8 (318 cu in) Magnum
Engine 2 Power:
Approx. 220 hp @ 4400 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 285 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 2 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:
3.91 in x 3.31 in (99.3 mm x 84.2 mm)
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
8.75:1
Engine 3 Type:
5.9L V8 (360 cu in) Magnum
Engine 3 Power:
Approx. 245 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 325 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 3 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 3 Bore X Stroke:
4.00 in x 3.57 in (101.6 mm x 90.5 mm)
Engine 3 Compression Ratio:
8.75:1
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Wheelbase:
104.0 inches (2642 mm)
Length:
177.8 - 178.9 inches (4516 - 4544 mm) (depending on model)
Width:
70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
62.4 - 66.2 inches (1585 - 1681 mm) (depending on model and 4WD)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3900 - 4400 lbs (1769 - 2000 kg) (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,500 lbs (2948 kg) (with proper equipment and engine)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
The ZJ Grand Cherokee typically had a high center of gravity, making it susceptible to rollover in extreme maneuvers, though specific ratings for 1997 are not consistently documented across all configurations.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels.
Traction Control:
Some models offered optional traction control systems.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts. Pretensioners for front occupants.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Various speaker configurations available depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Vehicle Speed Control:
System coverage detailed in the manual.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by 1997 standards; primarily focused on internal vehicle systems and basic audio connectivity. No external connectivity like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (4,800 to 8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to specific manual for exact recommendations).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles (48,000 to 80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 for 4.0L I6, and SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 for V8 engines (check manual for precise API service classification).
Transmission Fluid Specification:
ATF+4 (or Chrysler Mopar ATF+3 or equivalent for earlier versions) for automatic transmissions.
Coolant Specification:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent OAT/HOAT coolant meeting Chrysler MS-7170 or MS-9769 specifications).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3.
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Common Wear Items:
Water pump, radiator, starter motor, alternator, U-joints, transfer case, and various suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings) are known wear items.
Electrical Quirks:
Intermittent electrical issues, especially related to sensors, wiring harnesses, and power window/lock mechanisms, can occur.
Engine Minor Issues:
The 4.0L inline-6 is generally robust but can experience issues like cracked cylinder heads (though less prevalent in later years of the ZJ) or oil leaks.
Cooling System Concerns:
Overheating can be a concern if the cooling system is not properly maintained, due to radiator or water pump failures.
Jeep Legacy:
Built on Jeep's established reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability.
Zj Generation:
The ZJ generation, introduced for the 1993 model year, was Jeep's first unibody SUV and marked a significant step towards luxury and comfort, distinguishing it from its more utilitarian predecessors.
1997 Updates:
The 1997 model year saw minor updates, often including revised trim levels and potentially subtle enhancements to features and packaging. The core engineering remained consistent with the ZJ platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit, Michigan, USA