🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

XJ

Engine Code Primary:

4.0L Inline-6 (AMC 242)

Engine Code Optional:

2.5L Inline-4 (AMC 150)

👋 Introduction

Market Positioning:

The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) in 2000 represented a highly capable and durable compact SUV, known for its off-road prowess and classic Jeep styling. It occupied a significant segment of the SUV market, appealing to both everyday users and outdoor enthusiasts.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, and Chevrolet Blazer.

Key Features Vehicle:

Unibody construction for a lighter, more car-like ride compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs of the era. Legendary Jeep off-road capability, robust inline-6 engine option, relatively compact size.

Key Features Manual:

Designed for professional technicians but accessible to skilled DIYers, offering detailed schematics, diagnostic procedures, and complete overhaul instructions.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

North America

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, inspection, diagnostics, timing, lubrication, cooling, exhaust.

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control (OBD-II diagnostics), engine control module (ECM).

Transmission Automatic:

42RE, 44RE, 45RFE: Overhaul, diagnostics, hydraulic controls, torque converter, cooling.

Transmission Manual:

AX-15, NV3550: Overhaul, diagnostics, clutch system, flywheel.

Drivetrain:

Four-wheel-drive (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), transfer case (NP231, NP242), front/rear axles (Dana 30, Dana 35c), driveshafts, U-joints.

Suspension:

Front (leaf spring solid axle), Rear (leaf spring solid axle), shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, linkages, hydraulic pump.

Brakes:

Front disc, rear drum (standard), optional rear disc. ABS system diagnostics, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, ignition system, lighting, power distribution, fuses, relays.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, dashboard.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame inspection, corrosion protection, mounting points.

Preventive Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection, belt and hose inspection.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) lookup.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Component Replacement:

Exhaust systems, suspension components, brake calipers, radiators, alternators, starters, sensors.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, wear limits.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics.

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement Primary:

4.0 Liters (3956 cc)

Engine Configuration Primary:

Inline-6 (Straight-6)

Engine Block Material Primary:

Cast Iron

Engine Head Material Primary:

Cast Iron

Valvetrain Primary:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 12 valves

Bore X Stroke Primary:

3.875 in x 3.570 in (98.4 mm x 90.7 mm)

Compression Ratio Primary:

8.8:1

Horsepower Primary:

185 hp @ 4700 rpm

Torque Primary:

220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine Displacement Optional:

2.5 Liters (2469 cc)

Engine Configuration Optional:

Inline-4 (Straight-4)

Valvetrain Optional:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 8 valves

Horsepower Optional:

114 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque Optional:

145 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Pump Pressure:

31-39 PSI (214-269 kPa)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Distributor-based system.

Oil Capacity W Filter 4.0L:

5 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.

Oil Type 4.0L:

SAE 10W-30 API Certified (or SAE 5W-30 for colder climates).

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 10.0 Quarts (9.5 Liters) with 50/50 mix.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE)

Transmission Type Optional Auto:

4-Speed Automatic (44RE, 45RFE)

Transmission Type Optional Manual:

5-Speed Manual (AX-15 or NV3550)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-3 or GL-4 rated manual transmission fluid (check specific transmission type).

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac (NP231) Part-Time 2-Speed, Selec-Trac (NP242) Full-Time 2-Speed.

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or Dexron III equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

166.2 inches (4221 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height:

63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Ground Clearance Front Axle:

8.1 inches (206 mm)

Approach Angle:

38.4 degrees

Departure Angle:

31.0 degrees

Breakover Angle:

24.8 degrees

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 95.3 cu ft (2700 L)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 32.5 cu ft (920 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 69.0 cu ft (1954 L)

Curb Weight Approx:

3200-3600 lbs (1450-1630 kg) depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg) with proper equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

3-Star (as per NHTSA standards of the time).

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, typically on rear wheels or all four.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for front and rear occupants.

Body Construction:

Unibody construction with integrated crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player and optional CD player. Analog gauges and controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to ABS (optional). No advanced electronic driver aids like traction control or stability control were standard or commonly available.

Connectivity Features:

Minimal. Primarily focused on vehicle operation rather than integrated connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000-15,000 miles (19,000-24,000 km) or annually. Inspect more frequently.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, depending on use. Manual transmissions typically less frequent.

Spark Plug Replacement:

4.0L: Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with long-life plugs. 2.5L: Varies by plug type, often around 30,000-60,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4.

Common Issues Engine:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.0L versions, less common by 2000 but still a possibility), oil filter adapter O-ring leaks, rear main seal leaks.

Common Issues Transmission:

Torque converter lock-up issues (automatic), clutch wear (manual).

Common Issues Drivetrain:

Leaf spring perches cracking (under heavy off-road use), U-joint wear, differential leaks.

Common Issues Electrical:

Heater blower resistor failure, intermittent gauge readings, alternator issues.

Common Issues Body:

Rust in common areas like rocker panels, wheel wells, and tailgate.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Heritage:

Jeep, a brand with roots in military vehicles dating back to WWII, is renowned for its off-road capabilities and ruggedness. The Cherokee nameplate has a long history of synonymous association with trail-ready SUVs.

Cherokee Xj Generation:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its time as one of the first compact SUVs and one of the first SUVs with unibody construction. The 2000 model year represents the later stage of the XJ's very successful, long production run, incorporating evolutionary updates rather than a full redesign.

Production Years:

1984-2001 (North America)

Assembly Locations:

Toledo, Ohio, USA; Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journal Recognition:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ, throughout its life, received numerous accolades from automotive publications for its off-road capability and value, often appearing on 'best of' lists for SUVs and off-road vehicles.

Off Road Magazine Ratings:

Consistently praised by off-road focused publications for its solid axle design and aftermarket support.