Positioning:
Essential resource for owners and technicians of the late-stage XJ Cherokee, a highly regarded and enduring SUV known for its off-road capability and durability.
Competitors Manuals:
Comparable to factory service manuals (FSMs) or official Haynes/Chilton manuals of the era, offering detailed technical data and procedural guidance.
Value Proposition:
Provides the critical information needed to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 2000-2003 Jeep Cherokee XJ across all its configurations, empowering users with factory-level knowledge.
Vehicle Years Covered:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Engine Variants Covered:
2.5L Inline-4 (AMC 150), 4.0L Inline-6 (AMC 242)
Trim Levels Covered:
All Models
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific publication, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era.
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (Transfer Case, Axles, Driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear, ABS if applicable), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Power Distribution, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Body Control Modules, Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Anti-Theft Systems
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Glass, Convertible Tops (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Tune-Ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), System Testing Procedures, Component Testing
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Electrical Schematics, Diagnostic Specifications, Performance Specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering routine maintenance to complete overhaul and advanced diagnostics)
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Enthusiasts
Engine 2.5L Variant:
AMC 150 (2.5L Inline-4, OHV)
Engine 4.0L Variant:
AMC 242 (4.0L Inline-6, OHV)
Horsepower 2.5L:
Approx. 114-125 hp (depending on year and specific calibration)
Torque 2.5L:
Approx. 146-150 lb-ft (depending on year and specific calibration)
Horsepower 4.0L:
Approx. 190-193 hp (depending on year and specific calibration)
Torque 4.0L:
Approx. 220-235 lb-ft (depending on year and specific calibration)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil Pack configurations depending on exact year/build.
Transmission Type:
42RLE 4-Speed Automatic (late models) or NV3550 5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic or NV3550 5-Speed Manual
Transfer Case Options:
Sele-Trac (242), Command-Trac (231), or NP242 (full-time 4WD option)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific NV3550 fluid type (e.g., synthetic manual transmission fluid)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Generally rated well for its class, but inherent to SUVs, proper driving is essential.
ABS:
Available (standard on some models/years, optional on others)
Traction Control:
Limited availability or early forms on later models.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Service Intervals Example
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for precise recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil 2.5L:
API Certified SAE 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate).
Engine Oil 4.0L:
API Certified SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant
4.0L Oil Filter Adapter Leak:
Common issue with oil filter housing gasket seepage.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, and hose failures can occur with age.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or degradation of electrical connectors, especially grounds, can lead to various electrical gremlins.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings, track bar, and sway bar links are common due to age and off-road use.
Jeep Legacy:
Built upon Jeep's military heritage, the Cherokee (XJ) is renowned for its off-road prowess and rugged construction.
Xj Generation Timeline:
The XJ platform was in production from 1984 to 2001 in North America, with later models in this range representing the final iterations of this iconic design. The 2000-2001 models received some updates before its discontinuation.
Production Location:
Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA.
