Market Position:
The 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ was a popular mid-size luxury SUV, competing with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, and Toyota 4Runner. The WJ generation offered improved refinement and on-road manners compared to its predecessor while retaining Jeep's off-road prowess. This manual caters to owners and mechanics looking for in-depth factory-level repair information.
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself (DIY) mechanics, professional automotive technicians, and Jeep enthusiasts seeking in-depth technical knowledge for maintenance, repair, and restoration of their 2000 Grand Cherokee WJ with a diesel engine.
Competitive Analysis:
The WJ Grand Cherokee was known for its premium interior appointments, available Quadra-Drive 4WD system, and a more car-like ride. The inclusion of diesel engine options (though less common in North America) expanded its appeal to markets prioritizing fuel economy and torque for towing.
Key Features Of Vehicle:
Robust SUV platform, advanced 4WD systems (Quadra-Coil, Quadra-Drive), comfortable interior, strong towing capacity, and the distinct Jeep off-road capability. The diesel engine variant offers enhanced fuel efficiency and torque over gasoline counterparts.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control system, turbocharger system (if applicable to diesel variant), exhaust system.
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, front axle, rear axle, drive shafts, CV joints.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering.
Braking Systems:
Front brakes (disc), rear brakes (disc), parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM), power windows, power locks, HVAC controls, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System).
Body Chassis:
Frame and body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, liftgate, bumpers, HVAC system components.
Exhaust System Diesel:
Diesel particulate filter (if equipped), catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors (though less common on older diesels than gasoline), and all associated mounting hardware and gaskets.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, brake pad replacement, tire rotation, spark plug replacement (gasoline models, but important to note manual's scope), belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and clearing, electrical circuit testing.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair.
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major and minor components.
Wiring Diagrams:
The manual will contain detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, crucial for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults.
Torque Specifications:
All critical torque specifications for engine, drivetrain, suspension, and brake components will be provided for proper assembly and safety.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, diagnostic flowcharts, and wiring diagrams.
Special Tools:
The manual will list any specific Chrysler/Jeep factory special tools required for certain repair procedures, aiding in accurate and efficient work.
Primary Engine Diesel:
VM Motori 2.5L Turbo Diesel (likely)
Engine Layout Diesel:
Inline 4-cylinder (likely for VM Motori 2.5L)
Horsepower Diesel:
Approx. 115-125 hp (specific to variant)
Torque Diesel:
Approx. 220-240 lb-ft (specific to variant)
Fuel System Diesel:
Direct Injection with Turbocharging, likely electronic fuel injection (EFI).
Ignition System Diesel:
Compression ignition, requiring glow plugs for cold starts. The manual will detail glow plug operation, testing, and replacement.
Engine Codes Diesel:
Refer to manual for specific engine identification codes (e.g., for VM Motori engines).
Standard Transmission Diesel:
Likely a 5-speed manual transmission (NV3500) or a 4-speed automatic transmission (42RE or 45RFE, depending on specific diesel application).
Optional Transmission Diesel:
If a manual was standard, an automatic would be optional, and vice-versa. Consult manual for definitive options.
Transmission Features:
The manual would detail clutch operation, gear ratios, torque converter lock-up (automatic), transmission fluid type and capacity, and diagnostic procedures for both transmission types.
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4 stars (driver and passenger)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable (as per IIHS ratings for vehicles of this era)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (on some models), available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) for later model years (may not be standard or available on 2000).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, optional side airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones.
Infotainment System:
Base models featured a standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional upgrades included premium Infinity sound systems, cassette players, and larger displays for climate control and radio information. Navigation was not common for the 2000 model year.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily included ABS and traction control. Parking assist sensors were not common.
Connectivity Features:
Early forms of remote keyless entry were available. OnStar was an optional service in later years of the WJ generation, but unlikely to be standard on a 2000 model.
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Refer to manual for specific diesel engine recommendations. Typically around 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, for conventional oil. Synthetic may extend this.
Air Filter Replacement Diesel:
Refer to manual, often every 15,000-30,000 miles or based on operating conditions.
Fuel Filter Replacement Diesel:
Critical for diesel engines. Refer to manual, typically every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Coolant Flush Interval Diesel:
Refer to manual, often every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Specification Diesel:
Refer to manual. Likely a synthetic or semi-synthetic diesel-specific engine oil, e.g., SAE 5W-40 or 15W-40 meeting API CI-4 or similar specifications.
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
ATF+4 or equivalent (for automatic transmissions; manual transmission fluid type will differ).
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
Refer to manual, often Mopar Transfer Case Lubricant or equivalent.
Differential Fluid Type:
Refer to manual, typically SAE 75W-90 or 75W-140 synthetic gear oil.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for exact specification).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (refer to manual, as it can vary slightly).
Known Issues Common:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses), power steering leaks, transmission issues (especially with higher mileage), ABS sensor failures, minor electrical gremlins, exhaust manifold cracks (on gasoline engines, less common on diesel but possible), HVAC blower motor failures.
Diesel Specific Concerns:
Glow plug failures, injector issues, turbocharger wear, potential for injector pump problems depending on the specific VM Motori engine used. The manual will provide specific diagnostic procedures for these.
Common Diesel Maintenance Items:
Regular fuel filter changes, air filter inspection, monitoring turbocharger operation, checking for oil leaks around the turbo and engine seals.
Brand Heritage:
Jeep has a storied history dating back to WWII, synonymous with ruggedness, off-road capability, and freedom. This heritage is reflected in the Grand Cherokee's design and engineering.
Model Evolution Wj:
The WJ generation (1999-2004) represented a significant step up in refinement and technology for the Grand Cherokee. It featured a unibody construction, improved independent front suspension, and more upscale interior appointments, moving it closer to luxury SUV territory.
Production Locations:
Detroit, Michigan, USA (Jefferson North Assembly Plant)
Model Years Wj:
1999-2004
Recognitions For Grand Cherokee Wj:
The WJ Grand Cherokee often received praise for its comfortable ride and capable 4WD systems, making it a strong contender in the SUV market. It was frequently listed among desirable SUVs for its blend of luxury and off-road capability.
Ratings Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings varied by year and specific powertrain. While generally praised for comfort and capability, some models were noted for reliability concerns, particularly in the electrical and powertrain departments. This manual is essential for addressing these potential issues.