Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive technicians.
Key Competitors Era:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class.
Platform:
WK platform, shared with Dodge Durango (second generation).
Capabilities:
Known for its off-road prowess (Quadra-Trac, Quadra-Drive II systems), comfortable ride, and available powerful HEMI V8 engine.
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, eliminating the need for costly dealer visits for many procedures. 'No extra fees, no expiry dates' suggests a perpetual license for the digital download.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECM/PCM) diagnostics.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmissions (e.g., W5A580 for 5.7L, 545RFE for 4.7L, likely 45RFE or similar for 3.7L), transfer case (NV245, NV244, QL), drivelines, axles, differentials, NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) control.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering gear, power steering system, alignment procedures.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting systems (headlamps, tail lamps, interior), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), infotainment system, instrument cluster, sensor diagnostics.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, actuators.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis lubrication, corrosion protection.
Maintenance Routine:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor service, starter/alternator replacement, radiator replacement, fuel pump replacement.
Diagnostics Testing:
Component testing procedures, sensor voltage/resistance checks, actuator testing, scan tool usage for data logging and diagnostics.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, engine specifications, electrical specifications, alignment specifications.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
3.7L V6:
3.7L SOHC V6 'PowerTech'. Typically rated around 210-215 hp and 235-240 lb-ft torque. Known for reliability and decent fuel economy for its class. Uses SEFI (Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection).
4.7L V8:
4.7L SOHC V8 'PowerTech'. Typically rated around 235-240 hp and 300-305 lb-ft torque. A robust V8 offering more power than the V6. Uses SEFI.
5.7L V8 Hemi:
5.7L OHV V8 HEMI with Multi-Displacement System (MDS). Typically rated around 355-360 hp and 390-400 lb-ft torque. Offers significant power and torque with MDS for improved fuel efficiency under light loads. Uses SEFI.
Engine Monitoring:
On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) compliant, providing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 87, but 91 recommended for optimal performance in HEMI).
Fuel Delivery:
In-tank electric fuel pump, multi-point fuel injection.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed automatic transmission. Specific model varied by engine: W5A580 (Mercedes-Benz sourced) for 5.7L HEMI, 545RFE for 4.7L V8, likely 45RFE for 3.7L V6.
Optional Transmission:
N/A (All models in this generation were automatic).
Transfer Case Options:
Quadra-Trac I (full-time 4WD), Quadra-Trac II (full-time 4WD with low-range), Quadra-Drive II (full-time 4WD with low-range and electronic limited-slip differentials).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type for each transmission model (e.g., ATF+4, MERCON LV, NAG1 Fluid).
Length:
Approx. 189.8 inches (4821 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.9 inches (1903 mm)
Height:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1781 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 114.8 inches (2916 mm)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 30.5 cubic feet (0.86 m³)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 68.4 cubic feet (1.94 m³)
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,000 lbs (2041 - 2268 kg), depending on engine and equipment.
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 7,000 lbs (3175 kg) with appropriate tow package and setup.
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
5 Stars (2005-2006 models tested, results may vary for later years).
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
5 Stars (2005-2006 models tested).
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags and electronic stability control).
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard on most trims, known as Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Standard on all models, integrated with ESP.
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, available side curtain airbags for front and second-row occupants.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
Chrysler's MyGIG infotainment system was introduced during this generation, offering features like hard drive storage, navigation, and DVD playback. Base models had a standard AM/FM/CD player.
Audio Options:
Premium audio systems from Boston Acoustics were available on higher trims.
Parking Assist:
Available rear parking assist sensors.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system integrated into the MyGIG unit.
Connectivity Features:
Available Uconnect hands-free communication system, auxiliary audio input jacks.
Climate Control:
Available dual-zone automatic climate control, rear HVAC vents.
Seating:
Available heated front seats, power adjustable front seats with memory function for the driver's seat.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal) and oil type used (conventional vs. synthetic). Refer to manual for exact intervals based on oil quality and usage. Chrysler's recommended interval often tied to oil life monitoring system.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection, especially in dusty environments.
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
3.7L/4.7L V6/V8: Typically 30,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (copper vs. iridium). 5.7L HEMI: Typically 100,000 miles with iridium plugs. Manual will specify exact type and interval.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for fluid and filter change, or as indicated by the transmission fluid monitoring system. Crucial for longevity of automatic transmissions.
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.7L V6: Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 L). 4.7L V8: Approx. 6.0 quarts (5.7 L). 5.7L HEMI: Approx. 7.0 quarts (6.6 L). All with filter change. Refer to manual for exact capacities and oil viscosity (e.g., 5W-20, 5W-30).
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula or equivalent. Check manual for specific Chrysler specification (e.g., MS-9769).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, typically DOT 3 is specified for this generation. Manual will confirm.
Common Issues Engine:
Lifter tick (HEMI), cracked cylinder heads (early 4.7L models), minor oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan gaskets, occasional ignition coil failures.
Common Issues Transmission:
Transmission solenoid issues, torque converter shudder (especially in W5A580), potential for overheating if not properly maintained. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, sway bar links, power steering pump leaks, occasional steering rack issues.
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor failures, TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) issues, sensor failures (e.g., crank position, camshaft position), CAN bus communication errors.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long-standing reputation for off-road capability and durability, dating back to its military origins in World War II. The Grand Cherokee line, introduced in 1993, blended off-road performance with a more comfortable and luxurious SUV experience.
Wk Generation Introduction:
The WK generation Grand Cherokee was introduced for the 2005 model year, marking a significant redesign from the previous WJ generation. It featured a more refined interior, improved aerodynamics, and the introduction of the powerful 5.7L HEMI V8 engine.
Wk Midcycle Refresh:
A refresh occurred for the 2008 model year, bringing updated styling (front and rear fascias), interior enhancements, and powertrain refinements, including the improved 5.7L HEMI with Variable Valve Timing (VVT).
Manufacturing Location:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan, USA.
