Positioning:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001) is a legendary compact SUV renowned for its robust build, off-road capability, and utilitarian design. The 2000 model year represents a significant facelift with updated styling and powertrain improvements. This manual caters to owners and mechanics seeking the highest level of detail for DIY repairs and maintenance.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, and Mitsubishi Montero in its segment. Its unibody construction was a distinct advantage for on-road comfort compared to body-on-frame rivals.
Vehicle Attributes:
Iconic boxy styling, legendary 4.0L inline-six engine, excellent off-road prowess (especially with Selec-Trac or Command-Trac 4WD systems), durable unibody construction, comfortable ride for its class.
Utility:
Essential for any owner aiming to maintain, diagnose, or repair their 2000 Jeep Cherokee XJ. Provides factory-level information for accurate and effective work, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.
Engine Systems:
4.0L (242 ci) Inline-6 "Power-Tech" Engine (MPI), Engine Mechanical, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System (MPI), Ignition System, Exhaust System, Emission Control Systems.
Transmission Systems:
42RLE (Automatic Transmission), NV3550 (Manual Transmission), Drivetrain, Transfer Case (NP231 Command-Trac).
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (Solid Axle), Rear Suspension (Leaf Springs), Steering System (Power Steering).
Braking Systems:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (with optional Rear Disc), ABS System (if equipped).
Electrical Systems:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Ignition System, Gauges and Instruments, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM).
Body Chassis:
Body Construction, Doors, Glass, Seats, HVAC System, Body Hardware, Frame.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements, tune-ups, inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting charts, fault code interpretation.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension and steering component repair, electrical component repair.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, PCM diagnosis.
Depth:
Expert level, covering complete disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all vehicle systems, including detailed specifications and tolerances.
Searchability:
Fully searchable text content.
Printability:
Printable pages for workshop use.
Resolution:
High-resolution diagrams and illustrations.
Quality Notes:
Digital reproduction quality is excellent, mirroring original factory manual standards.
Binding Notes:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Notes:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Displacement:
4.0 Liters (242 Cubic Inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.414 in (98.4 mm x 86.7 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.75:1
Horsepower Est:
190 hp @ 4600 rpm
Torque Est:
235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Coolant Capacity Qt:
12.5
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30 (Chrysler MS-6381-F)
Transmission Type:
42RLE 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type:
NV3550 5-Speed Manual
Transfer Case:
NP231 Command-Trac (Part-Time 2WD/4WD High/4WD Low)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
NV3550: Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent GL-4, 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Capacity Qt:
8.0 (Dry Fill)
Manual Transmission Capacity Qt:
2.2
Ground Clearance In:
8.4 (Varies by trim/suspension)
Curb Weight Lbs:
3500 - 3900 (Approximate, depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs:
4700 - 5100 (Approximate)
Cargo Volume Cu Ft:
33.9 (Behind rear seat) / 71.2 (With rear seat folded)
NHTSA Rollover Rating 00:
3-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger)
Braking System:
Front disc, Rear drum brakes (optional rear discs); Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Not standard; available through 4WD systems.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (Standard).
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts.
Chassis Design:
Unibody construction contributes to safety and handling characteristics.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Limited speaker configurations (e.g., 4 or 6 speakers).
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or all four wheels depending on configuration.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Connectivity Features:
Basic; typically features power outlets. No factory Bluetooth or advanced infotainment connectivity as per modern standards.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult manual for specifics).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for automatic, check manual for manual transmission fluid intervals.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Transfer Case Fluid:
NV231: ATF+4 (Mopar)
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (standard).
Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially 4.0L), heater core leaks, cracked exhaust manifolds (4.0L), death wobble (steering/suspension related), water pump failures, transmission cooling line leaks, TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) issues, O2 sensor failures.
Oil Filter Example:
Mopar MO-349 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 51515, Purolator PL14610).
Air Filter Example:
Mopar PA-6101 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 42748).
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a storied history dating back to WWII, establishing a global reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability. The Cherokee line is a significant part of this heritage.
Xj Generations:
The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984, pioneering the compact SUV segment with its unibody construction. The 2000 model year is part of the second generation (facelift from 1997-2001) featuring updated interior and exterior styling, improved aerodynamics, and powertrain enhancements.
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA.
Production Years:
1984-2001 (XJ generation)
Offroad Magazine Ranking:
Consistently ranked highly by off-road publications for its capability and affordability.
Motorweek Drivers Choice:
Often cited as a versatile and capable compact SUV by automotive critics.
Build Quality Reputation:
Known for its robust mechanical components, particularly the 4.0L engine, contributing to a strong reputation for durability and longevity among owners.