Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Brand Perception:
Known for off-road capability and towing prowess, blended with luxury and comfort for the era.
Key Competitors 1998:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer/Tahoe, Toyota 4Runner, Land Rover Discovery
Distinctive Features:
Unibody construction (unique for SUVs at the time), Quadra-Coil suspension, iconic Jeep styling, powerful engine options, available robust 4x4 systems.
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking a capable, comfortable, and somewhat luxurious sport utility vehicle for daily driving and recreation.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, starting, charging
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic Transmission (42RE, 46RE), Transfer Case (NV242, NV249), Drive Axles (Dana 35 IFS, Chrysler 8.25 rear), Driveshafts, U-joints
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc brakes (front and rear), anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (IFS), rear suspension (solid axle), power steering system, steering column
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system, trailer tow wiring
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system
Body Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, glass, bumpers, frame, exhaust system mounting
Safety Restraints:
Airbags, seat belts
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for all systems
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Component Replacement:
Procedures for replacing alternators, starters, fuel pumps, radiators, brake components, suspension parts, and more
Electrical Wiring:
Wiring diagrams, component locations, testing procedures for electrical circuits
Depth:
Comprehensive, factory-level detail covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhaul, including advanced diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine Displacement:
4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
185 hp @ 4,700 RPM
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3,200 RPM
Engine Material:
Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Cylinder Head
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic Converter, EGR system
Engine Type:
V8, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine Displacement:
5.2 Liters (318 cubic inches) Magnum
Horsepower:
220 hp @ 4,400 RPM
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3,200 RPM
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Model:
46RE (typically with 5.2L V8)
Transfer Case Std:
Selec-Trac NV242 (Part-time 2WD, Full-time 4WD, Neutral, 4-Low)
Transfer Case Opt:
Quadra-Trac NV249 (Full-time 4WD with viscous coupling)
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (formerly ATF+3) Mopar Spec
Wheelbase:
108.7 inches (2761 mm)
Length:
179.1 inches (4549 mm)
Width:
71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Height:
66.4 inches (1687 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
4,100 - 4,500 lbs (1860 - 2041 kg), varies by engine and options
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 6,500 lbs (2948 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 38.5 cu ft
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 76.0 cu ft
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4-Star (1998 models tested)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4-Star (1998 models tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Optional, depending on trim level and drivetrain.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 3-5 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 3-5 years, particularly important for towing.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs (if equipped), otherwise follow specific mileage recommendations.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ; SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30, depending on climate (verify with manual for exact specs).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter for 4.0L I6; 5 US quarts (4.7 L) for 5.2L V8.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) green coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF.
Common Issue 1:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on the 4.0L I6 due to heat cycles).
Common Issue 2:
Jeep 'Death Wobble' - a violent shaking of the steering wheel and front end, often caused by worn steering/suspension components (e.g., track bar, ball joints, tie rod ends).
Common Issue 3:
Water pump leaks or failures.
Common Issue 4:
Transmission issues (e.g., slipping, hard shifting) can be related to fluid condition or internal wear.
Common Issue 5:
Interior electrical gremlins, particularly with power accessories and HVAC controls.
Common Issue 6:
Heater core leaks.
Common Issue 7:
Radiator plastic end tanks cracking.
Brand Origin:
Jeep, a marque with deep roots in military and off-road vehicles since WWII.
Zj Introduction:
The ZJ generation was introduced for the 1993 model year, representing Jeep's first foray into the luxury SUV segment.
Zj Update 1998:
The 1998 model year received a significant facelift, including revised exterior styling, updated interior appointments, and powertrain enhancements.
Zj Generation End:
The ZJ generation was succeeded by the WJ Grand Cherokee for the 1999 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit, Michigan, USA (Jefferson North Assembly Plant)