🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Generation:

XJ

Model Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)

Target Demographic:

Individuals and families seeking a capable and versatile off-road oriented SUV with compact dimensions.

Key Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Tracker/Suzuki Vitara

Off Road Capability:

Renowned for its robust unibody construction and capable 4x4 systems, offering superior off-road performance compared to many contemporaries.

Durability:

Built with a reputation for toughness and longevity, making it a popular choice for off-roading and demanding use.

Aftermarket Support:

Extensive aftermarket support for modifications and upgrades, a testament to its enduring popularity.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Digital Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar electronic format)

Page Count:

Comprehensive (estimated 1500-2500+ pages for a full service manual)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System

Drivetrain:

Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Transfer Case, Drive Shafts, Differentials, Axles

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instruments & Gauges, Body Electrical (Wipers, Horn, Power Accessories), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Interior Trim, Seating, HVAC System

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks), Tire Rotation, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Diagnosis, Electrical System Fault Finding, Engine Performance Issues

Repair:

Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair/Replacement, Body Panel Repair

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Component Dimensions, Clearances

Depth:

Comprehensive Diagnostic and Repair Procedures for all Major Systems, including detailed step-by-step instructions, exploded views, and troubleshooting trees.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 1:

4.0L (3964cc) OHV V6 (242 cu in) '6-Cylinder' Power-Tech

Engine Code 1:

242

Bore X Stroke 1:

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

Compression Ratio 1:

8.8:1

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 190 hp @ 4600 rpm

Torque 1:

Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine Type 2:

2.5L (2464cc) OHV 4-Cylinder (150 cu in) 'H.O.' High Output

Engine Code 2:

2.5L

Bore X Stroke 2:

3.875 in x 3.248 in (98.4 mm x 82.5 mm)

Compression Ratio 2:

9.1:1

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 125 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque 2:

Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Pump Pressure:

Refer to Manual for Specific PSI

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-Speed Automatic (e.g., AW4 - Automatic Overdrive)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-Speed Manual (e.g., AX-15 or NV3550 depending on specific build)

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac (NV231) Part-Time 2WD/4WD, Selec-Trac (NV242) Full-Time 4WD (Optional)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar specification for this era, or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Verify specific transmission type)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 7-9 quarts (depending on drain and fill vs. overhaul)

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 2.2 - 2.5 quarts (Verify specific transmission type)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 173.4 inches (4404 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

Approx. 64.2 inches (1631 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.7 - 8.1 inches (195 - 206 mm) (Varies with suspension and tire size)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3200 - 3700 lbs (1451 - 1678 kg) (Varies with engine and drivetrain)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4700 - 5000 lbs (2132 - 2268 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 33.8 cu ft (957 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 69.0 cu ft (1954 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA in modern comprehensive testing standards for this era.

IIHS Crash Test Rating:

Not explicitly rated by IIHS in modern comprehensive testing standards for this era.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels and rear wheels for some models.

Traction Control:

Not typically available on 1999 models.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants.

Rollover Protection:

Built with a robust unibody structure designed for stability, but high center of gravity inherent to SUVs requires careful driving.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level (e.g., 4-speaker base, optional 6-speaker premium).

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature, oil pressure) with warning lamps.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trim levels.

Anti Theft:

Factory installed alarm system (key fob based) on some higher trim levels.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on audio input. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity inherent to the factory system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (or 3-6 months), depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for exact recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles for automatic, or as per manual for manual transmissions.

Coolant Change:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 30,000 - 100,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API Service SG or higher). Consult manual for exact viscosity based on temperature.

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant. 50/50 mixture with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or Chrysler power steering fluid equivalent.

Transfer Case Fluid:

NV231/NV242: NP-242 Transfer Case Fluid (Mopar specification) or equivalent ATF+4.

Common Issues Engine:

Cracked cylinder heads (early 4.0L engines, less common by '99 but possible), head gasket failures, oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), distributorless ignition system (DIS) issues, idle air control (IAC) valve issues.

Common Issues Transmission:

AW4 transmission can develop harsh shifts or fail to engage gears; requires proper fluid maintenance. Manual transmissions can have clutch wear or synchro issues.

Common Issues Suspension Steering:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, track bar bushings, leaf spring bushings, and control arm bushings due to age and off-road use. Death wobble (severe steering oscillation) can occur if steering/suspension components are worn.

Common Issues Electrical:

Corroded grounds, failing window regulators, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, intermittent dash warning lights, O2 sensor failures.

Common Issues Body:

Rust, particularly on rocker panels, floor pans, and tailgate hinges. Heater core leaks are common.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep, a brand with roots in military vehicles dating back to World War II, is synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness.

Cherokee Xj Introduction:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ was a revolutionary vehicle, introduced in 1984 as one of the first compact SUVs with a unibody construction, setting a new standard for comfort and handling in the segment.

Cherokee Xj 1999 Updates:

The 1999 model year saw minor updates, often including revised interior styling, and potentially upgraded safety features, continuing the XJ's well-established platform.

Production Years:

1984-2001 (North America)

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Recognition:

The XJ series was consistently praised for its off-road capability and practicality, often outperforming more refined competitors in rugged terrain. Recognized as a highly influential vehicle in the SUV market.