Positioning:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001) is an iconic compact SUV renowned for its off-road capability, ruggedness, and distinctive unibody construction. The 1994 model represents a significant facelift with updated interior and exterior styling.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder. Differentiated itself with its coil-spring front suspension (on later models, though this 1994 retains leaf springs upfront for 4WD), compact size, and legendary Jeep off-road heritage.
Features:
Unibody construction (lighter and more refined than body-on-frame rivals of its era), legendary Selec-Trac or Command-Trac 4WD systems, robust 4.0L inline-six engine, compact footprint suitable for off-roading and urban maneuverability.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (4.0L I6, 2.5L I4), Transmission (AX-5, AW-4, NP231 Transfer Case), Drivetrain (Front/Rear Axles, Driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (Solid Front Axle, Leaf Springs Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum)
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, HVAC, Audio System, ABS (if equipped)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, HVAC System (Components and Operation)
Maintenance:
Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Transmission, Differential), Filter Replacements, Lubrication, Inspections
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts for Common Problems (e.g., No Start, Rough Idle, Overheating)
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I) codes and procedures, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics.
Engine Code:
4.0L HO (High Output) Inline-6
Displacement:
3956 cc (242 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.562 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 4750 RPM
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3250 RPM
Optional Engine:
2.5L AMC I4 (Limited Availability in 1994 models, primarily base trims)
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECU Type:
Chrysler MIC (Modular Integrated Controller) or similar OBD-I system
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10-Year/100,000 Mile Formula)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 API Service SG or SH
Oil Capacity:
5 US Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Ignition Coil
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (AW-4)
Manual Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (AX-5)
Transfer Case:
New Process NP231 Command-Trac (Part-Time 4WD) or NP242 Selec-Trac (Full-Time/Part-Time 4WD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent specification like Dexron III/Mercon)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (for AX-5)
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approximately 8-10 US Quarts (7.5-9.4 Liters) for a complete fluid change
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approximately 2.1 US Quarts (2.0 Liters) for AX-5
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3 Stars (4WD models generally higher than 2WD)
ABS:
Available on some models, typically rear-wheel anti-lock braking.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1994 onwards.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, shoulder belts with manual locking retractors.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Dashboard Design:
Revised dashboard for 1994 featured a more integrated and ergonomic design compared to pre-facelift models, with updated instrument cluster and controls.
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims.
Power Options:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were available on higher trim levels.
OBD Ii:
No, this model is OBD-I compliant. The manual will cover OBD-I diagnostic procedures.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), or more frequently under severe use.
Transfer Case Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km)
Differential Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km)
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for copper core plugs, or up to 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs (if applicable).
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or ATF+3
Common Problems:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.0L), rear main seal leaks, distributor O-ring leaks, front universal joint wear, rust (especially on floor pans, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels), cooling system issues (radiator, water pump), electrical connector corrosion.
Oil Filter:
Wix 51515, Fram PH8A (or equivalent)
Air Filter:
Wix 42522, Fram CA3347 (or equivalent)
Cabin Air Filter:
Not typically equipped with a cabin air filter in this generation.
Heritage:
Jeep has a storied history dating back to World War II, building a reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability.
Xj Generation History:
Introduced in 1984, the XJ Cherokee was revolutionary for its time as the first compact SUV with unibody construction. The 1994 model year marked a significant mid-cycle refresh (facelift) with updated exterior styling (new grille, headlights, bumpers) and a significantly revised interior (dashboard, seats, ergonomics).
Production Years:
1984-2001
Manufacturing Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Popular Mechanics Editor Choice:
The XJ Cherokee platform received recognition in the automotive press for its innovation and capability.
Four Wheeler Magazine Awards:
Consistently praised by off-road publications for its off-road prowess and durability.
