🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Model Code:

KJ

Year:

2005

Drive Type:

4X4

Steering Position:

Right-Hand Drive (RHD)

Chassis Code:

KJ

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-Road capable

Target Audience:

Owners and technicians requiring in-depth repair and maintenance information for the Jeep Cherokee KJ.

Competitors 2005:

Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra, Suzuki Vitara

Off Road Capability:

Renowned Jeep off-road prowess with available 4x4 systems.

Design:

Distinctive Jeep styling, robust construction, and functional interior.

Completeness:

Provides a complete guide to maintaining and repairing the vehicle.

Usability:

PDF format allows for easy searching and access to information, including diagrams and illustrations.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Maintenance and Repair Procedures

Specific Systems:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical, HVAC, Body, Interior

Estimated Pages:

Varies by specific manual edition; typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive service manuals.

Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnostics, component testing, and repair for engine control systems, including fuel injection, ignition, emissions, and sensors.

Powertrain:

In-depth coverage of engine teardown and reassembly, transmission servicing (automatic and manual), clutch, differentials, axles, and transfer case (4x4 system).

Suspension Steering:

Procedures for front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment, and related systems.

Braking System:

Comprehensive information on hydraulic brake systems, ABS, brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, and fluid flushing.

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for starter, alternator, battery, lighting, power windows, locks, infotainment, and body control modules.

Climate Control:

Service and repair for the HVAC system, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and blower motor.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, and chassis component servicing.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, and inspections.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex faults using symptom-based approaches.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems.

Rebuilding Overhaul:

Instructions for rebuilding or overhauling key components like engines, transmissions, and differentials.

Specifications Data:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete overhaul and advanced diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Image Quality:

High-resolution images and graphics for clear visualization of procedures.

Recommendation:

Optimized for digital viewing with Adobe PDF Reader; printable.

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Petrol:

3.7L V6 (PowerTech - EKG)

Engine Code Diesel:

2.8L CRD I4 Turbo Diesel (ENR/44C)

Displacement Petrol:

3.7 Liters (226 cubic inches)

Horsepower Petrol:

Approx. 205-210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque Petrol:

Approx. 235-240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Displacement Diesel:

2.8 Liters (170 cubic inches)

Horsepower Diesel:

Approx. 150 hp @ 3800 rpm

Torque Diesel:

Approx. 260-340 lb-ft @ 1800-2400 rpm (depending on transmission/tune)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (for 3.7L V6), Diesel (for 2.8L CRD)

Injection System Petrol:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Injection System Diesel:

Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)

Coolant Type:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Mopar OAT or equivalent (e.g., Pentofrost G12 or similar purple coolant).

🔧 Transmission

Type Petrol:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)

Type Diesel:

5-Speed Manual (NV3500) or 4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)

Drivetrain System:

Command-Trac NV242 (Part-time, 2-speed transfer case with 2WD High, 4WD High, Neutral, 4WD Low) or Selec-Trac NV247 (Full-time, 2-speed transfer case) depending on trim/options.

Atf Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

Gear Oil Type:

API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (for NV3500)

Automatic Capacity:

Approx. 8.0-8.5 quarts (7.6-8.0 liters) for 42RLE.

Manual Capacity:

Approx. 2.5 quarts (2.4 liters) for NV3500.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Length:

Approx. 173.8 inches (4415 mm)

Width:

Approx. 72.2 inches (1834 mm)

Height:

Approx. 68.2 inches (1732 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, approx. 3700-4200 lbs (1678-1905 kg)

Gvw:

Approx. 5000-5400 lbs (2268-2449 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 30.0 cubic feet (0.85 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume Seats Folded:

Approx. 66.9 cubic feet (1.89 cubic meters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

Good

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

Good

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Acceptable (for models with specific airbag configurations)

ABS:

Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Traction Control System (TCS) on some later models or as part of higher trims.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, 3-point seatbelts for rear occupants.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced roof structure and body design for enhanced rollover protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base models typically feature a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD player. Higher trims offered optional premium audio systems with more speakers and a subwoofer.

Display:

Center console-mounted display for radio and climate controls. Some models offered a basic trip computer display within the instrument cluster.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Rear parking assist sensors were available as an option on some higher trim levels.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily offered basic audio input (e.g., CD player, AM/FM radio). No Bluetooth or USB connectivity typically standard on base models.

Power Windows:

Power windows and door locks available on most trims.

Keyless Entry:

Available keyless entry system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Petrol:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult owner's manual.

Oil Change Diesel:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months. Diesel engines often require more frequent changes.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Petrol: Varies by design, often integrated with pump or serviced at higher mileages. Diesel: Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles (50,000-160,000 km) or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type and manufacturer recommendation.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Engine Oil Petrol:

SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or SL certification). Check owner's manual for specific viscosity and ILSAC GF-3/GF-4 certification.

Engine Oil Diesel:

SAE 5W-40, API CI-4 or CJ-4 (low SAPS diesel engine oil recommended for DPF equipped models if applicable).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid.

Engine Oil Petrol Capacity:

Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) for 3.7L V6, with filter.

Engine Oil Diesel Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) for 2.8L CRD, with filter.

Common Problem Cv Joints:

Front CV (Constant Velocity) joints can wear prematurely, especially with off-road use, leading to clicking noises during turns.

Common Problem Heater Core:

Heater core leaks are a known issue, often resulting in a sweet smell inside the cabin and coolant residue on the windshield.

Common Problem Power Steering:

Power steering pump leaks or noisy operation can occur.

Common Problem Diesel Glow Plugs:

On diesel models, glow plug issues can lead to difficult starting in cold weather.

Common Problem Transfer Case:

Transfer case actuator issues or chain wear can occur in 4x4 systems.

Common Problem Body Mounts:

Worn body mount bushings can lead to rattling or squeaking noises.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long-standing heritage in producing capable off-road vehicles since World War II.

Kj Generation Intro:

The KJ Cherokee was introduced for the 2002 model year, replacing the XJ Cherokee. It was a significant departure in styling and engineering, adopting a unibody construction and a more modern SUV design.

Kj Midcycle Refresh:

A mild refresh occurred for the 2005 model year, with minor exterior styling updates (front and rear fascias, wheels) and interior enhancements, including improved materials and features.

Production Years:

2002-2007

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily assembled in Toledo, Ohio, USA, and also at plants in Venezuela and possibly China for specific markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Awards:

While specific awards for the 2005 KJ are not widely publicized, the Jeep brand consistently receives recognition for its off-road capabilities and heritage.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings for the KJ generation often highlighted strengths in off-road capability and comfort, but noted average to below-average reliability in some areas.

Emissions Standards:

Compliant with relevant emissions standards for the 2005 model year in its target markets (e.g., EPA standards in the USA).