Market Position:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ, particularly the 2000 model year, represents a highly regarded compact SUV known for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and iconic design. It has a strong enthusiast following and remains popular for daily driving, off-roading, and as a platform for customization.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and Chevrolet Blazer. The XJ's unibody construction was a distinguishing feature, offering a more refined ride compared to body-on-frame competitors, while retaining impressive off-road prowess.
Key Features:
Durable unibody construction, legendary Selec-Trac or Command-Trac 4WD systems, strong aftermarket support, reliable powertrains, compact yet capable dimensions.
Target Audience:
Jeep owners, mechanics, restoration specialists, and parts suppliers seeking accurate identification of original equipment parts for the 2000 Jeep Cherokee XJ.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (4WD System, Axles, Driveshafts), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), Electrical System, Body & Sheet Metal, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Wheels & Tires, Accessories
Procedures Included:
Part identification, part number lookups, exploded views of all vehicle systems, cross-referencing of superseded parts, component assembly illustrations
Technical Depth:
Detailed component-level breakdown for all factory-installed parts, including original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part numbers. Essential for accurate parts ordering and identification for restoration, repair, or modification.
Component Detail:
Provides specific illustrations and part numbers for every fastener, bracket, hose, wire, and major component. Crucial for maintaining originality and sourcing correct replacements.
Illustrations:
Detailed exploded-view diagrams of every system and component group, essential for understanding part relationships and assembly.
Part Number Detail:
Provides precise OEM part numbers required for ordering from dealerships or aftermarket suppliers. Includes superseded part numbers where applicable.
Primary Engine:
4.0L (242 cu in) Inline 6-Cylinder (PowerTech)
Horsepower:
Approximately 190 hp @ 4,600 rpm (for 2000 model)
Torque:
Approximately 225 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm (for 2000 model)
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Codes Common:
ERH (4.0L OHV)
Engine Variants:
Primarily the 4.0L I6. A smaller 2.5L I4 engine was also available in earlier XJ models but less common by 2000.
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Cast Iron
Standard Transmission:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic
Optional Transmission:
AX-15 5-Speed Manual (less common in 2000, but available earlier and late models)
Transfer Case Options:
NV231 (Command-Trac) Part-Time, NV242 (Selec-Trac) Full-Time/Part-Time
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Gear Ratios
Manual Transmission Gear Ratios:
Typically 3.75:1 (1st), 2.18:1 (2nd), 1.50:1 (3rd), 1.00:1 (4th), 0.79:1 (5th) for AX-15
Automatic Transmission Gear Ratios
Automatic Transmission Gear Ratios:
Typically 2.74:1 (1st), 1.54:1 (2nd), 1.00:1 (3rd), 0.69:1 (4th) for 42RE
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2,576 mm)
Length:
167.5 inches (4,255 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1,781 mm)
Height:
64.5 inches (1,638 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.5 inches (stock, depending on tire size and suspension)
Approach Angle:
Approx. 37 degrees (stock)
Departure Angle:
Approx. 31 degrees (stock)
Breakover Angle:
Approx. 25 degrees (stock)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 32.5 cu ft
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,400 - 3,700 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (with proper equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,750 - 5,100 lbs (depending on configuration)
Standard Wheel Size:
15 inch or 16 inch alloy or steel wheels
Standard Tire Size:
P225/75R15 or P235/70R16 (common fitments)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.5 inches (5x114.3mm)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Rating:
4-star (for 2000 models)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Rating:
4-star (for 2000 models)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - typically rear-wheel only on many models
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and passenger front airbags, Seat belts with pretensioners
Infotainment Features:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player (optional), basic climate controls
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards; ABS (rear-wheel only on many models)
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports from factory)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 100,000 miles (with long-life plugs)
Engine Oil Specification:
API Service SG, SH, SJ or equivalent; SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for climate-specific recommendations)
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid OAT) type; typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Transfer Case Fluid Spec:
NP231/NP242: ATF+4 (or equivalent)
Differential Fluid Spec Front:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (or 75W-90)
Differential Fluid Spec Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (or 75W-90)
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Chrysler power steering fluid or equivalent ATF+4
Known Issues Engine:
Oil filter adapter O-ring leaks, cracked cylinder heads (early models, less common by 2000), distributor vent seal leaks, cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump)
Known Issues Drivetrain:
Leaf spring perches cracking (common off-road modification issue), axle seal leaks, universal joint wear
Known Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, central locking issues, intermittent gauge behavior, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failures
Known Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn track bar bushings, worn ball joints, worn tie rod ends, steering box wear
Known Issues Body:
Rust on rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and tailgate; headliner sagging
Brand Heritage:
Jeep, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), boasts a rich heritage rooted in World War II military vehicles. The brand is synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness.
Model Evolution:
The Cherokee XJ, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its time as one of the first compact SUVs with a unibody construction. The 2000 model year represents the final iteration of the original XJ design, with minor updates and refinements over its long production run.
Production Years:
1984-2001 (North America)
Manufacturing Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA