Market Position:
The Jeep XJ Cherokee, during its production run, solidified Jeep's reputation for capable, compact, and versatile SUVs, bridging the gap between car-like comfort and traditional off-road prowess.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, and Toyota 4Runner, often praised for its unibody construction offering a lighter and more refined ride than body-on-frame rivals.
Key Features:
Unibody construction, iconic leaf-shaped grille, removable spare tire carrier (on some models), significant off-road capability for its class, robust aftermarket support.
Trim Levels Covered:
All available trim levels
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive coverage
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable (Digital PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine electrical, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, driveline, axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front and rear), wheels and tires, frame and body structure.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, gauges, warning lamps, body control modules, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, audio system, HVAC controls.
Body & Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, liftgate, glass, interior trim, seats, safety restraints, HVAC ducting, emission control components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspection procedures.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), circuit diagrams, electrical schematics, flowcharts.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems and components, including disassembly, overhaul, and reassembly.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Option 1:
2.5L AMC 150 Inline-4
Engine Option 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 105-125 hp (depending on year and specific tune)
Engine Option 1 Torque:
Approx. 130-145 lb-ft (depending on year and specific tune)
Engine Option 2:
4.0L AMC 242 Inline-6 (High Output)
Engine Option 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 173-190 hp (depending on year and specific tune)
Engine Option 2 Torque:
Approx. 210-245 lb-ft (depending on year and specific tune)
Fuel Delivery System:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for most years, Throttle Body Injection (TBI) on early models.
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on later models, Conventional distributor ignition on earlier models.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Transmission Option 1:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., Chrysler 42RE, 46RH)
Transmission Option 2:
5-speed Manual (e.g., AX-5, AX-15)
Transfer Case:
Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD with 2WD option) or Command-Trac (part-time 4WD with 2WD option).
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
Typically 3-star (for this era, often focused on frontal impact).
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum brakes (standard). Optional ABS available on some later models.
Seat Belts:
Lap and shoulder belts, rear seat belts.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag introduced later in the production run (often 1993+).
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player in later years. Analog gauges and controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some later models. Primarily focused on mechanical systems.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards. Basic electrical systems for power windows, locks, and audio.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, depending on service type (e.g., drain and fill vs. flush).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for precise recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent) for later models, ATF+2 or Dexron II for earlier models.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Issues Engine:
Cracked cylinder heads on the 4.0L (especially early models), oil filter adapter housing leaks, distributor O-ring leaks (earlier models), exhaust manifold cracks (4.0L).
Common Issues Transmission:
Slipping or delayed engagement in automatic transmissions, synchro issues in manual transmissions.
Common Issues Chassis:
Leaf spring wear, worn U-joints, brake component wear, rust on unibody structure and wheel wells.
Common Issues Electrical:
Corroded grounds, failing instrument cluster voltage regulators, faulty window regulators.
Brand Heritage:
Jeep's lineage traces back to WWII military vehicles, establishing a legacy of robust and capable off-road machines.
Model Evolution:
The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was a revolutionary vehicle for Jeep. It pioneered the compact SUV segment with its unibody construction, offering a more car-like driving experience than traditional SUVs. It remained in production with minor updates until 2001 globally, but this manual covers the critical first decade.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily assembled in Toledo, Ohio, USA.
Popular Mechanics Car Of The Year:
Was recognized by various publications for its innovative design and capability upon its release.
Off Road Capability Rating:
Highly regarded for its off-road capability, often considered one of the most competent compact SUVs of its era.
Aftermarket Support Certification:
Renowned for exceptional aftermarket support, allowing extensive customization and performance upgrades.
