Positioning:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ is a highly regarded compact SUV known for its off-road capability and ruggedness. The 2000 model year represents the later stages of its long production run, offering refined features over earlier generations.
Competitors 2000:
Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Blazer.
Chassis Design:
Unibody construction, a significant innovation for SUVs at its introduction, contributing to lighter weight and better on-road manners compared to body-on-frame competitors.
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its excellent approach and departure angles, ground clearance, and available Selec-Trac or Command-Trac 4x4 systems.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, engine control (ECU/PCM).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (AW4, 42RE), Manual transmission (AX-5, NV3550), Transfer case (NP231, NP242), Drivelines, Axles.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (leaf springs, coil springs), Steering system, Power steering.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc, drum), ABS (if equipped), Parking brake.
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, Charging system, Starting system, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body control modules, Power distribution.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, frame, bumpers.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes.
Repair Rebuild:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics.
Adjustment Calibration:
Wheel alignment specifications, throttle position sensor calibration, idle speed adjustment.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for various repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Code:
4.0L Inline-6 (High Output)
Engine Displacement:
3956 cc (241.7 cubic inches)
Engine Design:
Overhead Valve (OHV), Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Cylinder Head
Horsepower 2000:
190 hp @ 4600 rpm (approximate)
Torque 2000:
225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approximate)
Induction Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Secondary Engine Option:
2.5L Inline-4 (AMC 242), 125 hp @ 4600 rpm, 150 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (less common for 2000 model year)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (42RE)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (NV3550)
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac (Part-time 4WD with 2WD option), Command-Trac (Part-time 4WD).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar Specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
NS-2 (New Venture Gear Specification) or equivalent synthetic gear oil.
NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for 4x4 models)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or all four wheels depending on trim and options.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for front and rear outboard occupants.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette or CD player, optional Infinity Gold sound system.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Power Features:
Available power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.
Aux Input:
N/A (Pre-auxiliary input era for most factory systems).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic, consult manual for manual transmission. Recommended more frequently for severe use.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN/SP or newer, SAE 5W-30 recommended for 4.0L engine. Check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or compatible long-life antifreeze/coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified by manufacturer).
Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (4.0L engine), oil filter housing leaks, rear main seal leaks, death wobble (steering/suspension alignment issues), cracking of the unibody near the front track bar mount.
Electrical Quirks:
Door lock actuators, window regulators, and intermittent electrical gremlins can occur due to age.
Jeep Legacy:
Building on Jeep's military heritage and reputation for robust off-road vehicles, the Cherokee (XJ) redefined the compact SUV segment.
Xj Generation:
First generation (XJ) produced from 1984 to 2001. The 2000 model year is part of the significant facelift and update that occurred in 1997, featuring improved aerodynamics, interior, and updated drivetrains.
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA.
Production Years:
1984-2001 (global production).
Off Road Magazine Awards:
Consistently recognized by off-road publications for its capability and value.
Consumer Reports Ratings Historical:
Mixed to average historically, with praise for capability and criticism for reliability in some years. The 2000 model is considered one of the more robust later years.
