Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road capable vehicle
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, DIY enthusiasts, professional mechanics.
Key Competitors 1999:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer
Vehicle Identity:
The XJ Cherokee is renowned for its unibody construction (a segment first), offering a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. The 1999 model represents a refined version of this iconic platform.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, emission controls, transmission (automatic & manual), clutch, driveshafts, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (front & rear), wheels, tires, frame.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power distribution, wiring diagrams, Body Control Module (BCM) where applicable, comfort & convenience features.
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotation.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable, testing procedures for various systems.
Installation:
Component installation and removal procedures, torque specifications for critical fasteners.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for special tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.
Engine Code:
For 1999, primary gasoline engine is the 4.0L (242 cu in) OHV I6, often designated as the 'Power-Tech Six'.
Engine Family:
AMC 242 Inline-6
Horsepower 4 0L:
Approximately 190 hp @ 4,600 RPM
Torque 4 0L:
Approximately 235 lb-ft @ 3,000 RPM
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Bore X Stroke 4 0L:
3.875 in x 3.414 in (98.4 mm x 86.7 mm)
Compression Ratio 4 0L:
8.75:1
Valve Train:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder, Pushrod actuated
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Engine Block Heater:
Optional, but often fitted in colder climates.
Transmission Type Auto:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Manual:
AX-15 5-Speed Manual (less common in later XJs but possible)
Optional Transmission:
NV3550 5-Speed Manual (introduced late in XJ production, but 42RE is dominant for 1999 gas 4x2)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+4 (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible fluid, consult manual for exact spec)
Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Re:
Approximately 9.5 pints (4.5 L) dry fill, 7.5 pints (3.5 L) refill
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (for AX-15/NV3550)
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
169.9 inches (4315 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
64.4 inches (1636 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.4 inches (213 mm) for 4x2 model
Curb Weight Approx:
3,500 - 3,800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg), varies by trim and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5,100 lbs (2313 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) for 4x2, check specific configuration
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (for 1999 model year, specific test conditions apply)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (for 1999 model year, specific test conditions apply)
ABS:
Available (often standard on higher trims or optional)
Traction Control:
Limited availability, typically not standard on 4x2 models.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear lap belts (later models may have 3-point rear)
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo, optional CD player, premium sound systems available on higher trims.
Speakers:
Typically 4-6 speakers, depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Available
Rear Defroster:
Available
Aux Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or as per manual recommendations.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type 4 0L:
API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity 4 0L:
5.0 US Quarts (4.7 L) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water. Can use universal green or orange coolant if compatible.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 or Mopar power steering fluid.
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
ATF+4 or equivalent for Command-Trac/Selec-Trac NV231/NV242 transfer cases.
Common Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early 4.0L), radiator leaks, water pump failure, minor electrical gremlins, exhaust manifold cracks (on later 4.0L models), interior trim wear, sway bar links and bushings.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history of rugged, go-anywhere vehicles dating back to WWII. The Cherokee lineage is a cornerstone of its modern SUV identity.
Xj Generation:
The XJ generation of the Cherokee (1984-2001) was groundbreaking for its unibody construction, lighter weight, and improved on-road manners compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
1999 Updates:
1999 saw minor refinements, often including updated interior trim and features, and continuation of the reliable 4.0L inline-6 engine.
Production Years Xj:
1984-2001
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA
