Market Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Land Rover Discovery
Usp Of Model:
Renowned for its refined ride, upscale interior for its class, and capable four-wheel-drive systems (Quadra-Drive), appealing to buyers seeking comfort and off-road prowess.
Manual Advantage:
Provides detailed, factory-level information essential for maintaining and repairing this capable SUV, crucial for owners and independent repair facilities.
Primary Coverage:
North America (USDM, Canadian)
Trim Levels Covered:
Laredo, Limited, Overland, Special Editions (e.g., Freedom, Columbia)
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2000+ (comprehensive, estimated based on typical workshop manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (automatic and manual), Transfer Case, Driveline (front and rear axles, CV joints, driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brake System (front discs, rear discs, ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Instrument Cluster, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Audio System, Security System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Roof, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, Exterior Lighting, Wipers
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation, wiring harness testing
Repair:
Engine disassembly/assembly, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and clearances
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and complete mechanical and electrical component overhauls. Includes detailed diagrams and schematics.
Engine Option 1:
4.0L (3956cc) SOHC V8 (PowerTech)
Engine Option 1 Displacement:
3.996 liters / 243.8 cubic inches
Engine Option 1 Bore X Stroke:
93.0 mm x 72.0 mm (3.66 in x 2.83 in)
Engine Option 1 Compression Ratio:
9.7:1
Engine Option 1 Horsepower:
190 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)
Engine Option 1 Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Engine Option 2:
4.7L (4701cc) SOHC V8 (PowerTech)
Engine Option 2 Displacement:
4.701 liters / 286.8 cubic inches
Engine Option 2 Bore X Stroke:
93.0 mm x 86.0 mm (3.66 in x 3.39 in)
Engine Option 2 Compression Ratio:
9.1:1
Engine Option 2 Horsepower:
220-235 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Option 2 Torque:
300-325 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU Type:
Chrysler NGC (Next Generation Controller) or equivalent, specific to model year and engine
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (42RE/45RFE/48RE depending on engine and year)
Optional Transmission:
None (manual transmission was not offered in the WJ generation)
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac (part-time 4WD), NV242 (full-time 4WD with 2WD option), NV247 (full-time 4WD with Quadra-Drive)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) is the recommended fluid for most models, though earlier models may specify ATF+3.
Wheelbase:
116.0 inches (2946 mm)
Length:
184.0 inches (4674 mm)
Width:
74.8 inches (1899 mm)
Height:
66.7 inches (1694 mm)
Passenger Volume:
approx. 106.7 cubic feet (3021 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:
approx. 37.5 cubic feet (1062 liters)
Cargo Volume Max:
approx. 77.0 cubic feet (2180 liters)
Curb Weight:
approx. 4200 - 4600 lbs (1905 - 2087 kg), varies by configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
approx. 5800 - 6100 lbs (2630 - 2767 kg)
Front Suspension:
Solid front axle with leading arms and track bar, coil springs, gas-charged shock absorbers
Rear Suspension:
Solid rear axle with leading arms and track bar, coil springs, gas-charged shock absorbers
Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Standard Wheel Size:
16 inch or 17 inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size:
P225/75R16, P235/65R17, or P245/70R16 (varies by trim and year)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4 Stars (Driver and Passenger) for 1999-2004 models (according to available historical data, though ratings can vary slightly by year/test conditions)
Antilock Braking System:
Standard on all models (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional/Standard on higher trims, often integrated with 4WD systems (e.g., Brake Assist)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional side curtain airbags for some later years/trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, three-point belts for rear outboard occupants.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system was introduced or becoming more common during this period, check specific model year for exact implementation.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium Infinity Gold audio system with amplifier and subwoofer.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Trailer Towing:
Factory tow package often included, with integrated trailer wiring harness connector and specific cooling system upgrades. Manual covers trailer tow system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles (4,800-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions. Consult manual for exact recommendation.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type; typically 30,000-100,000 miles. OE spec likely Iridium or Platinum plugs with longer intervals.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on driving habits and fluid type.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 is common for both V8 engines. Check manual for specific viscosity and API service classification (e.g., API SN or equivalent).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0L V8: Approx. 7 quarts (6.6 liters). 4.7L V8: Approx. 7 quarts (6.6 liters).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically orange or pink. Verify with manual.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar power steering fluid or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Issue 1:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.7L V8 models). Manual will guide diagnostics and replacement procedures.
Common Issue 2:
Transfer case pump failure (NV247 Quadra-Drive). Manual provides troubleshooting and repair for this specific system.
Common Issue 3:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump). Detailed diagrams and replacement steps are crucial.
Common Issue 4:
Power window regulators and motors failure. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement of these components.
Common Issue 5:
Interior electronic module failures (e.g., Body Control Module - BCM). Manual includes diagnostic flowcharts for electrical systems.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long-standing reputation for off-road capability and ruggedness, dating back to its military origins in WWII.
Wj Generation Introduction:
The WJ Grand Cherokee was introduced for the 1999 model year, replacing the ZJ generation. It was a significant redesign with a focus on improved on-road refinement and a more luxurious interior.
Wj Updates:
Facelifted for the 2002 model year, featuring updated exterior styling (grille, headlights, taillights), interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements.
Production Plants:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
1998 (for 1999 model year) - 2004
Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:
None directly for the WJ, but Jeep Grand Cherokee nameplate has received various accolades over its history. The WJ was praised for its improved luxury and refinement compared to its predecessor.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by year and powertrain. The manual is essential for addressing common issues and maintaining optimal performance.
Emission Standards:
Compliant with US federal emission standards for its model years (EPA certified). Manual details emission control system components and diagnostics.