Market Position:
The 1993 Jeep Cherokee XJ was a highly regarded compact SUV known for its ruggedness, capability, and off-road prowess. It competed with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and Chevrolet S-10 Blazer.
Market Segment:
Compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)
Competitive Analysis:
The XJ's unibody construction offered a lighter and more refined ride compared to body-on-frame SUVs of its era, while retaining excellent off-road performance thanks to Jeep's legendary 4x4 systems. This manual provides the professional-level detail needed to maintain and repair this iconic vehicle.
Key Features:
This manual is the official factory documentation, used by dealership technicians. Its comprehensive nature ensures that owners and independent mechanics have access to the same information used by professionals for accurate repairs and maintenance.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain (4WD/2WD), Transmission, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, HVAC, Body & Chassis, Interior Components, Diagnostics
Systems Covered Additional:
Climate Control (HVAC), Power Steering, Cruise Control, Instrument Cluster, Lighting System, Exterior Trim, Interior Upholstery, Doors, Windows, Liftgate
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, engine tune-up, major engine repair, engine overhaul, transmission removal/installation, drivetrain component repair, brake system service, suspension and steering alignment/repair, electrical diagnostics and repair, HVAC system service, body panel repair, interior trim removal/installation, troubleshooting, specifications, wiring diagrams
Procedures Included Additional:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, component testing, repair procedures for body damage, emission control system servicing, torque specifications for all fasteners.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting trees.
File Format:
N/A (Assumed Printed)
Print Quality:
Original Factory Quality (Typically Black and White with diagrams)
Binding Type:
Original Factory Binding (Likely Stitched or Spiral Bound)
Paper Type:
Durable Paper Stock (Designed for workshop use)
Coverage Completeness:
Official Factory Coverage - Implies comprehensive information mirroring dealership service operations.
Primary Engine:
4.0L (242 cu in) Inline-6 'Select-Fire' OHV
Engine Variant 2:
2.5L (150 cu in) 4-Cylinder 'AMC' OHV (Less common in '93, but potentially covered)
Horsepower 40L:
Approx. 190 hp @ 4750 rpm (varies slightly by year/configuration)
Torque 40L:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (varies slightly by year/configuration)
Fuel System:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Electronic Ignition (refer to specific model)
Cooling System:
Pressurized, liquid-cooled, with electric cooling fan
Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific climate/load)
Oil Capacity 40L:
6 US quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter
Block Material 40L:
Cast Iron
Head Material 40L:
Cast Iron
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (AW4 - Aisin Warner)
Optional Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (AX-5 or AX-15 - New Process)
Transfer Case:
Command-Trac NV242 (Part-time, 2WD, 4WD Part-time, 4WD Full-time) or Selec-Trac NV242
Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)
Fluid Capacity Auto:
Approx. 7.5 US quarts (7.1 Liters) for AW4
Drive Type:
4WD (Full-time and Part-time options)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Not rated by NHTSA in 1993 standards
Active Features:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (4-ABS) available on rear axle for most models, limited slip differentials (optional)
Seat Belt Type:
Three-point retractable seat belts in front, lap belts in rear (later models may have three-point rear belts)
Passive Features:
Seat belts (front and rear), reinforced passenger cage, driver-side airbag (standard for 1993)
Infotainment:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player may be present on some higher trims. Speakers typically in doors and rear quarter panels.
Driver Assistance:
Limited to basic functions; no electronic stability control, traction control, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) present on this model.
Connectivity:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Communication relies on traditional radio and auxiliary inputs if available.
Gauges:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel level, engine temperature, oil pressure. Warning lights for various systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (under normal conditions)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or compatible, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (or equivalent power steering fluid)
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (or 75W-90)
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (or 75W-90), with limited-slip additive if equipped with Trac-Lok
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF+4 (or equivalent ATF)
Common Issues:
Cracked cylinder heads (4.0L early models), heater core leaks, sagging headliner, worn leaf spring bushings, starter motor failure, fuel pump issues, rust (especially on unibody frame rails and rocker panels).
Oil Filter Part Number:
Mopar: MO-098 or equivalent Wix 51042, Fram PH8A, Purolator L30001
Air Filter Part Number:
Mopar: P5006247 or equivalent Wix WA10500, Fram CA130
Brand Heritage:
Jeep has a long and storied history of producing robust, off-road capable vehicles dating back to World War II. This heritage is deeply ingrained in the Cherokee's design and engineering.
Model Evolution:
The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its time as one of the first compact SUVs with unibody construction. The 1993 model represents a mature iteration of this platform, featuring refinements and improvements over earlier generations.
Updates For 1993:
The 1993 model year saw refinements including the standard driver's side airbag and continued updates to the powertrain and interior. The manual will reflect these specific year changes.
Production Years:
1984-2001 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Model Lineage:
The Cherokee XJ is the second generation of the Jeep Cherokee nameplate, succeeding the SJ Cherokee and leading to the Grand Cherokee (which became its own distinct line) and later iterations of the Cherokee. The XJ is particularly beloved for its compact size and unique unibody design.