Market Position:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ (1995) represents the second generation of this iconic compact SUV, known for its robust build, excellent off-road capability, and unibody construction which was innovative for its time. It competed against vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Blazer.
Competitive Analysis:
The 1995 XJ, particularly with the 4.0L inline-six, offered a compelling blend of on-road comfort and serious off-road prowess, often outperforming its competitors in rugged terrain due to its solid front axle and efficient 4x4 systems. The unibody construction contributed to a lighter weight and better on-road manners compared to body-on-frame rivals.
Key Features:
Unibody construction, Dana 30 front axle (4x4), Chrysler 8.25 rear axle (most models), iconic 4.0L 'High Output' inline-six engine, legendary off-road capability, spacious interior for its class.
Coverage Scope:
Complete factory service and repair
Page Count:
Estimated 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, potentially searchable and printable)
Powertrain:
Engine (4.0L I6, 2.5L I4), Transmission (AX-15 manual, AW-4 automatic), Transfer Case (NP231, NP242)
Chassis:
Suspension (Solid front axle, leaf springs rear), Steering (Power steering), Brakes (Front disc, rear drum), Driveline (4x4 systems)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, starter, instruments, body electronics, power accessories
Body And Interior:
Exterior panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seating, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, axle service, brake system repair, electrical component replacement
Installation Adjustment:
Component installation, alignment procedures, torque specifications, timing adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete drivetrain and chassis overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine 1 Displacement:
4.0L (242 cu. in.)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline-6 (I6)
Engine 1 Valvetrain:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Engine 1 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 190 hp @ 4750 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5L (150 cu. in.)
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline-4 (I4)
Engine 2 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 125 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (AX-15)
Optional Transmission Type:
3-Speed Automatic (AW-4)
Transmission Features Aw4:
Electronically controlled overdrive with a lock-up torque converter, known for its durability and smooth operation.
Transmission Features Ax15:
Robust manual gearbox sourced from Aisin-Warner, often praised for its positive shift feel.
Transfer Case Options:
Command-Trac (NP231) - Part-time 2WD/4WD, Selec-Trac (NP242) - Full-time 4WD/Part-time 4WD
NHTSA Ratings:
NHTSA ratings for 1995 models are limited, but generally considered safe for their era. Focus was on structural integrity for off-road use.
Active Safety Features:
Rear wheel anti-lock braking system (RWABS) standard on all models. Optional ABS on front wheels.
Passive Safety Features:
Seat belts (3-point front, 2-point rear), reinforced unibody structure, optional driver-side airbag.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player. Manual climate controls. Simple gauge cluster.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited driver assistance features by modern standards. Focus is on mechanical reliability and off-road capability.
Connectivity Options:
No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Primarily analog systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on usage and fluid type).
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Spec 4 0L:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (check owner's manual for climate specific recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Spec Aw4:
Mopar ATF+3 (or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON compatible fluid, though ATF+3 is preferred).
Transmission Fluid Spec Ax15:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (avoid GL-5 due to brass synchronizers).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Issues 4 0L Engine:
Head gasket leaks (especially older models), cracked cylinder heads (less common on 1995+), oil filter adapter housing leaks, rear main seal leaks.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, track bar bushings, leaf spring bushings, steering box wear, death wobble (if components are worn).
Common Issues Electrical:
Faulty instrument cluster (headlight switch, dimmer), intermittent power issues, grounds corrosion.
Maintenance Schedule Highlights
Maintenance Schedule Highlights:
Regular checks of all fluid levels, tire pressure and wear, brake system inspection, suspension and steering component wear, and exhaust system integrity.
Brand Heritage:
Jeep, a brand with deep roots in military vehicles, has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability. This heritage is evident in the Cherokee's design and engineering.
Model Evolution Xj:
Introduced in 1984, the XJ Cherokee was revolutionary as the first compact SUV built with unibody construction. The 1995 model year represents a significant facelift with updated interior and exterior styling, including a revised dashboard and improved aerodynamics.
Production Period:
1984-2001 (North America)
Production Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
