Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle
Contemporaries:
Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4Runner
Design Philosophy:
Unibody construction for a lighter, more car-like ride compared to body-on-frame competitors, coupled with renowned Jeep off-road capability.
Engine Service:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, component overhaul, timing, fuel injection, cooling system.
Transmission Service:
Automatic (AW4) and Manual (AX-4, AX-5) transmission overhaul, diagnostics, adjustments, fluid service.
Drivetrain Service:
Four-wheel drive system (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), differentials, axles, driveshafts, U-joints.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications.
Brake System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or optional rear discs), ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, accessories, body electrical, wiring diagrams.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operation, diagnostics, and repair.
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass, chassis components, structural integrity.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, rebuilding, and reinstallation.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures, circuit testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid services and adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.
Engine 1:
4.0L Inline 6-cylinder (242 ci) OHV, High Output
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.414 in (98.4 mm x 86.7 mm)
Horsepower Gross:
173 hp @ 4500 rpm (approximate, varies slightly by source)
Torque Gross:
220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approximate, varies slightly by source)
Engine 2:
2.5L Inline 4-cylinder (150 ci) OHV, AMC 150
Horsepower Gross:
125 hp @ 4800 rpm (approximate)
Torque Gross:
153 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for both engines
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Width:
69.3 inches (1760 mm)
Height:
62.7 inches (1593 mm) (approximate, varies with trim/suspension)
Curb Weight Est:
3100 - 3400 lbs (1406 - 1542 kg) depending on configuration
Towing Capacity Est:
Up to 2000 lbs (907 kg) for 4-cyl models, up to 2500 lbs (1134 kg) for 6-cyl models (check specific configurations).
NHTSA Overall Est:
Likely 3-4 stars for frontal impact based on era, specific 1988 ratings may not be readily available.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or all four wheels depending on configuration and build date.
Airbags:
Driver side airbag was optional and not standard on all trims in 1988.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point, rear lap and shoulder belts.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months (under normal driving conditions). Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
4.0L: Approx. 60,000 miles (96,000 km) depending on plug type. 2.5L: Approx. 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Change every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for normal use, more frequently for severe use (towing, off-roading).
Engine Oil 4.0L:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 (check manual for seasonal variations)
Engine Oil 2.5L:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 (check manual for seasonal variations)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Chrysler spec, check manual for exact type and quantity)
Transmission Fluid Manual Ax5:
GL-3 or GL-4 75W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Manual Ax15:
GL-3 or GL-4 75W-90 gear oil
Transfer Case Fluid:
NP231/242: ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check manual)
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water
Cooling System:
Leaking heater control valve, radiator, and hose failures are common due to age. Overheating can occur if not maintained.
Electrical:
Starter solenoid issues, headlight switch problems, and corroded ground points are prevalent.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, leaf spring bushings, and track bar wear lead to alignment issues and 'death wobble' if not addressed.
Rust:
Prone to rust in rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and frame rails, especially in areas with salt exposure.
Interior:
Headliner sag, cracked dashboards, and worn seat upholstery.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep's long-standing reputation for ruggedness, off-road prowess, and utility, originating from its military roots.
Xj Introduction:
The XJ Cherokee was revolutionary for its time, introduced in 1984 as the first mass-produced compact SUV with unibody construction.
1988 Updates:
1988 saw the widespread availability of the 4.0L High Output inline-six engine, which quickly became the preferred powerplant for its torque and refinement. Minor interior and exterior trim updates may have occurred.
Production Run:
1984-2001 (NAFTA region), with later production in other markets.
Automotive Press:
The XJ Cherokee was lauded for its comfortable ride, capable off-road performance, and compact size, often praised for blending utility with daily drivability.
Off Road Ratings:
Consistently rated highly by off-road publications for its articulation, ground clearance, and robust drivetrain options.
