🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Model Variant:

Cherokee, Comanche

Applicable Years:

1988, 1989, 1993, 1994, 1995

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle

Competitors:

Ford Bronco II, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder.

Design Philosophy:

Robust body-on-frame construction, legendary Jeep 4x4 capability, relatively compact and maneuverable size, durable and utilitarian design.

Primary Users:

Jeep owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, off-road enthusiasts, and automotive technicians. Appeals to both novice and experienced users due to its detailed nature.

📋 Manual Details

Systems:

Maintenance, Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service, Emission Control, Intake, Exhaust, Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Automatic Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case, Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle, Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake System, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Locks, Meter, Audio/Visual Systems, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel, Seats, Engine Hood/Doors, Exterior & Interior Trim, Electrical Systems, Multiplex/CAN Communication

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed page count varies by specific year and engine, but typically ranges from 800 to 1500+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era.

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine overhaul, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions, automatic transmission service, manual transmission service, clutch service, transfer case operation, driveline components (propeller shafts, U-joints, axles, differentials).

Chassis And Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (leaf springs, coil springs, control arms, shock absorbers, sway bars), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering pump, steering gear), brake systems (disc, drum, ABS, parking brake), wheel bearings, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical And Body:

Complete electrical schematics, starter, charging system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, power windows, power locks, HVAC system, airbags (SRS), seat belts, audio systems, wipers, mirrors, glass replacement, interior and exterior trim removal and installation, engine immobilizer, cruise control.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance schedules, fluid level checks and changes (engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, battery service, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation and balancing.

Diagnostics And Repair:

Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, engine performance problems, transmission faults, brake system malfunctions, electrical system issues. Step-by-step repair procedures for component removal, installation, and adjustment. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (where applicable for the era).

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine specifications (bore, stroke, compression ratio, valve timing), fuel system pressures, electrical component resistance values, diagnostic test procedures, lubrication points, fluid capacities.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, and in-depth electrical system diagnostics and repair. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip

Searchability:

Generally searchable text within the PDF, allowing for quick location of specific topics.

Format Type:

Digital (PDF)

Digital Format Details:

High-resolution scans of original factory service manuals, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Jeep AMC Straight-6 (I6) and Chrysler Straight-4 (I4)

Engine 2 5L I4 Hp:

Approximately 125 hp @ 4800 rpm (varies slightly by year)

Engine 4 0L I6 Hp:

Approximately 177-190 hp @ 4700 rpm (varies by year)

Engine 4 0L I6 Torque:

Approximately 220-255 lb-ft @ 3000-3200 rpm (varies by year)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Coolant Type:

Conventional Green Ethylene Glycol Coolant (Chrysler spec MS-7170 or equivalent)

Engine Oil Type 4 0L:

SAE 10W-30 API SH or higher (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)

Engine Oil Capacity 4 0L:

5 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Option:

AX-5 (4-cylinder) and AX-15 (6-cylinder) 5-speed manual transmissions

Automatic Transmission Option:

AW-4 (4-speed automatic, often with electronic control) and 32RH (3-speed automatic, later years)

Transfer Case:

Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD) and Command-Trac (part-time 4WD) transfer cases

Aw-4 Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (MS-9602) equivalent. Check manual for specific fill quantity.

Ax-15 Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Check manual for specific fill quantity.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,100 - 3,700 lbs (1406 - 1678 kg), varies by configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

Fiftys Rating:

While NHTSA ratings for this era are less detailed, the XJ was known for its robust structure. Always consult specific year reports if available.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became standard in later years (around 1994-1995). Passenger airbags were not a common option.

Seat Belts:

Front 3-point seat belts, rear lap belts (later models may have shoulder belts in rear).

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Factory AM/FM radios with cassette players, optional CD players. Basic speaker systems.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on some models and became more common in later years of this generation.

Multiplex Communication:

The inclusion of 'Multiplex/CAN Communication' in the manual contents suggests the presence of early forms of vehicle network communication, though typically less complex than modern CAN bus systems. This likely refers to integrated electrical circuits and simplified wiring harnesses compared to older vehicles.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change 4 0L:

Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (4,800 to 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Coolant Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years. Flush and refill as per manual. Use of a specific coolant additive (like Zerex G-05 for later models or equivalent for earlier) might be recommended to prevent internal corrosion, particularly in the 4.0L engine.

Spark Plugs:

Replace approximately every 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Recommended plugs for the 4.0L HO engine are often Champion Copper Plus (e.g., RC12LYC) or equivalent, with a specific gap setting detailed in the manual.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap or manual for exact specification)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or equivalent. Refer to manual for specific type and quantity.

Transfer Case Fluid:

NP231 (Command-Trac) & NP242 (Selec-Trac) typically use ATF+3 or equivalent. Check manual for specific type and quantity.

Common Issues 4 0L:

Cracked cylinder heads (particularly early versions of the 4.0L, though less common in the later models covered here), radiator leaks, water pump failures, rear main seal leaks, distributor O-ring leaks, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on the 4.0L HO), rust (particularly on rocker panels, floor pans, and rear quarters), AC system leaks.

Common Issues General:

Leaf spring wear and sag, worn ball joints and tie rod ends, power steering pump whine, worn sway bar links, rear axle seal leaks, transfer case chain stretch.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long history of producing rugged, capable off-road vehicles, dating back to World War II. The Cherokee XJ built upon this reputation.

Xj Introduction:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ was introduced for the 1984 model year and was revolutionary as the first mass-produced compact SUV with a unibody construction, setting a new trend in the automotive market.

Production Span For This Manual:

1988, 1989, 1993, 1994, 1995. The XJ was produced from 1984 to 2001 globally, with this manual covering a significant mid-life update period.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ (as part of the Jeep line) has received various accolades over its lifespan for its off-road prowess and utility, although a specific 'SUV of the Year' award for the XJ itself in the exact years covered may vary. Jeep vehicles are consistently recognized for their trail capability.