Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Key Competitors 1999:
Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet Blazer, Land Rover Discovery.
Differentiation:
Jeep's iconic off-road capability, luxurious interior appointments, and powerful V8 engine options.
Platform:
WJ platform, a significant redesign from the previous ZJ generation.
Powertrain Options:
Available in multiple engine and drivetrain configurations, including 4x4 systems.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, and repair of all engine variants.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnosis, wiring diagrams.
Transmission:
Service, repair, and overhaul procedures for automatic transmission (e.g., 42RE, 45RFE).
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, transfer case (e.g., NV242, NV247), driveshafts, U-joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gearbox, tie rods, linkages.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, brake rotors, pads, calipers, parking brake.
Electrical Body:
Interior and exterior lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, climate control, audio system.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, chassis lubrication, structural components.
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnosis and repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) definitions, diagnostic procedures.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation.
Repair:
Detailed repair procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic approaches for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
5-star (1999 models)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
5-star (1999 models)
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Available on some models, often integrated with 4WD systems.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, driver side pretensioner.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Infinity Gold premium audio system.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (rare for 1999).
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Rear Parking Assist:
Optional on some higher trims.
Telematics:
Uconnect system not available in 1999. OnStar integration may have been an early option or dealer add-on.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on usage (refer to manual).
Engine Oil 4.0L:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil 4.7L:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769).
Common Issue 1:
Cracked cylinder heads on early 4.7L V8 engines (check for coolant loss and white smoke).
Common Issue 2:
Water pump leaks and bearing failure on the 4.0L engine.
Common Issue 3:
Service air suspension issues (if equipped).
Common Issue 4:
Vibration issues at speed, often related to driveshaft balance or U-joints.
Common Issue 5:
Interior trim component wear and creaking.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long-standing reputation for off-road capability and ruggedness dating back to WWII.
Wj Introduction:
The WJ generation replaced the ZJ Grand Cherokee in 1999, introducing a completely new body, interior, and enhanced drivetrain options.
Design Philosophy Wj:
Focused on a more refined and comfortable ride, improved aerodynamics, and higher quality interior materials compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:
While not specifically for the 1999 model, the Grand Cherokee (WJ) platform received praise for its refinement and capability.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Mixed to average reliability ratings for early WJ models, with specific common issues noted (refer to maintenance section).
