Market Position:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ, particularly in its later years (1997-2001), was a highly regarded compact SUV known for its off-road capability, durability, and relatively simple mechanical design. It occupied a strong segment of the market for consumers seeking a versatile vehicle for both daily driving and adventuring.
Competitive Analysis:
Competitors during this era included vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, and Chevrolet Blazer. The XJ distinguished itself with its unibody construction, a pioneering feature that offered a lighter and more refined ride compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs, while retaining impressive off-road prowess.
Key Features:
Iconic inline-six engine, robust Selec-Trac and Command-Trac 4x4 systems, legendary off-road capability, compact yet capacious interior, and enduring styling. The 1997 redesign brought significant interior and exterior updates, including a more modern dashboard and improved aerodynamics.
Systems Covered:
Engine (4.0L, 2.5L), Transmission (AX-5, NV3550, 42RE, 44RE), Transfer Case (NP231, NP242), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, Non-ABS), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams), HVAC, Body Control Modules, Chassis, Interior Components, Exterior Body.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, step-by-step repair instructions, component removal and installation, specifications, torque values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component testing, bodywork repair, HVAC system servicing, brake system bleeding and repair.
Technical Depth:
In-depth, professional-level coverage suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed diagnostics, component rebuild procedures, and factory specifications.
Primary Engine:
4.0L (3957cc) OHV Inline-6 (PowerTech)
Engine Options:
2.5L (2464cc) OHV Inline-4 (AMC 150)
Horsepower 4.0L:
Approx. 190 hp @ 4600 rpm
Torque 4.0L:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Horsepower 2.5L:
Approx. 125 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque 2.5L:
Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) for 4.0L; Distributor Ignition System for 2.5L.
Cooling System Capacity:
Approx. 11.5 quarts (10.9 liters)
Recommended Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Green (for older formulations), or equivalent.
Recommended Oil 4.0L:
API Certified SAE 10W-30 (preferred), SAE 5W-30 for extreme cold.
Oil Capacity 4.0L:
5 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil 2.5L:
API Certified SAE 10W-30, SAE 5W-30 for extreme cold.
Oil Capacity 2.5L:
4 Quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change
Standard Transmission 4.0L
Standard Transmission 4.0L:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic
Optional Transmission 4.0L
Optional Transmission 4.0L:
NV3550 5-Speed Manual (often found on Sport and other trims)
Standard Transmission 2.5L
Standard Transmission 2.5L:
AX-5 5-Speed Manual
Optional Transmission 2.5L
Optional Transmission 2.5L:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Fluid 42Re:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Re
Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Re:
Approx. 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters) total capacity. Approx. 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) for pan drop and filter change.
Transmission Fluid Ax-5:
GL-3 or GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Nv3550
Transmission Fluid Nv3550:
GL-3 or GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90
Exterior Length:
Approx. 167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Exterior Width:
Approx. 70.0 inches (1778 mm)
Exterior Height:
Approx. 63.7 inches (1618 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) with standard tires.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300-3600 lbs (1497-1633 kg), depending on configuration.
Cargo Volume Rear Seat Up
Cargo Volume Rear Seat Up:
Approx. 32.5 cubic feet (0.92 cubic meters)
Cargo Volume Rear Seat Down
Cargo Volume Rear Seat Down:
Approx. 69.3 cubic feet (1.96 cubic meters)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 stars (for most models).
Active Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels, optional front disc/rear drum with rear ABS.
Passive Features:
Driver and passenger airbags, front and rear crumple zones, three-point seatbelts, reinforced unibody construction.
Infotainment Features:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic analog gauges with tachometer on some trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on basic safety features. Optional ABS.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports. Aftermarket solutions common.
Powertrain Control:
Engine Control Module (ECM) manages fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions. Older OBD-II diagnostic port.
Service Intervals Oil Change
Service Intervals Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid:
Automatic: Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), change fluid and filter every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km). Manual: Inspect as needed, change fluid per severe service schedule or ~100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Service Intervals Coolant
Service Intervals Coolant:
Flush and replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Service Intervals Spark Plugs:
4.0L: Platinum plugs every 100,000 miles (160,000 km). 2.5L: Standard plugs every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Fluid Specifications:
Refer to engine_specs and transmission sections for specific fluid types and capacities. Brake fluid: DOT 3. Power steering fluid: Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon.
Known Issues 4.0L:
Cracked cylinder heads (pre-1997 more prone, but can occur), oil filter housing leaks, radiator issues, exhaust manifold cracks.
Known Issues General:
Rust (especially on rocker panels, floor pans, and unibody rails), worn suspension components (bushings, ball joints), electrical gremlins (especially HVAC blower resistors and window motors), rear main seal leaks, transfer case chain stretch (NP231).
Filter Part Numbers Oil:
Wix 51085, Fram PH8A, Mopar MO-090 (or equivalent for 4.0L).
Brand Heritage:
Jeep has a long and storied history rooted in military vehicles, evolving into a leader in off-road and sport utility vehicles. This heritage is deeply ingrained in the Cherokee XJ's DNA, contributing to its robust reputation.
Model Evolution Xj:
The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its time as one of the first compact SUVs and the first to feature unibody construction. The 1997 model year marked a significant facelift, updating the exterior styling and interior ergonomics to keep it competitive.
Production Years:
1984-2001 (North America), later production in other markets.
Manufacturing Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA.
