Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size SUV, Sport Utility Vehicle
Initial Purpose:
Designed as a robust and capable off-road vehicle with comfortable on-road manners.
Key Competitors:
Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco II, Nissan Pathfinder.
Distinguishing Features:
Ladder-frame chassis, available coil-spring front suspension (later models), robust 4WD system, often more affordable than some Japanese rivals.
Body Styles:
2-door (short wheelbase) and 4-door (long wheelbase) configurations.
Powertrain Options:
Durable 4-cylinder and V6 gasoline engines, available diesel engines in some markets.
Off Road Capability:
High ground clearance, available locking differentials, low-range gearing in the transfer case.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, fuel injection system (ECI), engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensors, actuators.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, component testing.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission diagnosis, overhaul, torque converter, shift control, fluid and filter replacement.
Drivetrain 4Wd:
Transfer case operation and repair, front/rear propeller shafts, universal joints, differential overhaul (front and rear), axle shafts, hub locking mechanisms.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (torsion bar, A-arms, ball joints), rear leaf spring suspension, shock absorbers, steering knuckle, wheel bearings.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, steering links.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or optional rear discs on some models), hydraulic system, brake booster, master cylinder, ABS (if equipped), parking brake system.
Electrical Chassis:
Lighting system (headlights, taillights, signals), wiring diagrams, fuse box, relays, power windows, door locks, horn, wiper/washer system.
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass replacement, trim.
Body Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard components, interior trim panels, carpeting, headliner.
Heating Ventilation Ac:
HVAC system diagnosis, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, refrigerant system (if equipped).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, braking issues, and suspension noise.
Component Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major vehicle components.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Detailed procedures for timing belt replacement on applicable engine variants, including critical timing mark alignment.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, brake fluid bleeding, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul.
4Wd System Service:
Transfer case fluid change, hub maintenance, propeller shaft U-joint lubrication and replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness testing, sensor testing, troubleshooting common electrical system faults using multimeter and diagnostic charts.
Diagnostic Information:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for EFI systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and component testing specifications.
Repair Procedures:
Comprehensive, step-by-step repair instructions with detailed diagrams and torque specifications.
Specifications Data:
Includes all essential technical data: clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, torque values, electrical resistance, and pressure readings.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and often color-coded wiring diagrams for various electrical systems, crucial for diagnostics and repairs.
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of special tools required for specific repair procedures, often with Mopar part numbers.
Service Intervals Engine Oil
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (dependent on driving conditions and oil type).
Oil Type Spec Gasoline:
API Service SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for specific viscosity and quality).
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mitsubishi: MD069782, Fram: PH5570, Wix: 51515 (verify for specific engine).
Oil Capacity 4Cyl:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)
Oil Capacity V6:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (with filter)
Service Intervals Transmission
Automatic Transmission Service:
Fluid and filter change every 30,000-60,000 miles. Check fluid level regularly.
Manual Transmission Service:
Gear oil change every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Transfer Case Service:
Gear oil change every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Front Rear Differential Service:
Gear oil change every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on type (copper vs. platinum). Example: NGK BP5FS (4G63), NGK BPR5ES (6G72).
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years. Critical replacement interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant. Capacity approx. 8-10 quarts. Check manual for specific type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type, typically ATF Dexron II or equivalent.
Rust And Corrosion:
Prone to rust in rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and frame components, especially in areas with road salt.
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical component; failure leads to severe engine damage (interference engine design).
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear out, leading to steering looseness and clunks.
Transfer Case Chain Stretch:
The chain in the transfer case can stretch over time, leading to slippage or noise.
Fuel Injector Clogging:
Early EFI systems can be susceptible to clogged injectors if fuel quality is poor or maintenance is neglected.
